How To Use Waterslide Decals with Polymer Clay

This tutorial is based upon the use of the waterslide decals that I carry in my store. Each of those decals have been specially created for use with polymer clay. The larger decals may be used with wood, ceramic, candles, switchplates or anything else you choose to adhere them to. Just remember to use a sealer to keep them safe from harm.

My decals come in a variety of sizes but the most common one used for my beads is the half inch or so for the rounds. My flamingo necklace beads are an example of this size.

The decals are easy to use and I carry all the supplies you need to create your own beads. All you need is a base bead, a pair of scissors, a small dish of water and a decal.

When you look at the following heart, please note that the heart itself is a pendant size under one inch and the decal is my 3/4 inch size for a larger piece.

First thing first. Create your bead, bake it and let it cool. I hand wet sanded the heart through 4 grits and then did a light buff on my jeans to give it a bit of a glow. I used a metallic Fimo for the base bead and once I had it sanded and dried, I was ready to apply my decal.

I chose the smaller yellow rose decal and cut it out so that it would fit on the face of my bead.

In a small cup of water, I dropped the decal and let it soak for about 30 seconds or so. I did make sure it was completely covered in water while it was soaking.

Gently remove the decal from the water and place it face down on your bead. It helps to have the bead slightly wet so the decal with slip a bit. Ever so gently, use your finger to slip the paper backing to the side of the bead, keeping the decal on the bead with your other fingers. The key is to take it nice and slow and to slide the paper away from the decal without distorting the decal.

Decals are fragile and can stretch out of shape if they are handled a bit too rough so keep a very light touch.

Once you have removed the paper, use your fingers to lightly pat the decal into place and to smooth out any air bubbles. If the bead is still damp under the decal, it makes it easy to slide the decal where you want it.

Once you have placed your decal where you want it, gently smooth it out and let it dry.

When decals are dry on polymer clay, I apply a light coat of Minwax Polyurethane Waterbased Gloss Coat. I will generally apply a couple more light coats to make sure that my decal is safe and secure under the gloss. It also doesn't hurt to give your beads a nice shine to them.

Hope this helps to experiment with creating your own unique beads!

Julie and Blu

**** Applying Decals to Other Surfaces******

The above instructions are also applicable to other surfaces that you wish to apply the decal to. Make sure that your surface is clean and lint free before applying the decal.

Once you have applied it, use a sealer to cover the decal to protect it.

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This product was added to our catalog on Tuesday 04 August, 2009.