What is Fimo Clay?
Fimo clay, also known as polymer clay, is a malleable material that hardens in the oven. It's perfect for creating jewelry, figurines, and other creative projects. Fimo clay is available in many different colors and there are various types with specific properties.
The optimal baking temperature for Fimo clay can vary slightly depending on the specific type of Fimo you are using. Generally, it is recommended to adhere to the following temperatures:
Fimo Soft and Professional: 110°C (230°F)
Fimo Leather-Effect: 130°C (266°F) Always read the specific instructions on the packaging of your Fimo clay.
What are the different types of Fimo Clay?
Fimo Kids: This is the softest and most child-friendly version of Fimo clay. It is specially designed for young children and comes in bright colors. The clay is easy to knead and shape.
Fimo Soft: This clay is slightly firmer than Fimo Kids, but still very soft and easy to use. It is suitable for both children and adults and is available in a wide range of colors.
Fimo Effect: This clay has a special structure, allowing you to create special effects. Think of marble, metallic or pearl effects. It is slightly more difficult to work with than Fimo Soft, but offers many more possibilities.
Fimo Professional: This is the most professional version of Fimo clay. It is firmer and has a smooth, fine structure. Fimo Professional is ideal for detailed work and is often used by experienced hobbyists and artists.
Fimo Air: This is a special type of Fimo clay that hardens in the air. So you don't have to bake it in the oven. Fimo Air is ideal for quick projects and for people who don't have an oven available.
What is Fimo Leather effect clay?
Fimo Leather Effect is an innovative modeling clay that, after baking, acquires a realistic leather look and feel. It combines the versatility of traditional Fimo clay with the unique properties of leather.
How does it work?
Baking: Fimo Leather Effect is hardened in an oven at 130°C for approximately 30 minutes. This process hardens the clay and gives it its leather-like texture.
Processing: The clay is as soft and malleable as regular Fimo, allowing you to easily create all kinds of shapes. After baking, the material is firm and flexible.
Cutting and sewing: One of the biggest advantages of Fimo Leather Effect is that you can work with it just like real leather. You can cut it with a sharp knife or scissors and even sew it with a leather needle and thread.
Can you mix Fimo clay?
Yes, you can definitely mix Fimo clay! It's actually one of the fun aspects of working with Fimo, as you can create an infinite number of colors and effects.
Here are a few ways you can mix Fimo clay:
- To create new colors: You can knead different colors of Fimo clay together to create new shades. Start with small amounts and gradually add more until you reach the desired color.
- For marbled effects: Twist two or more colors of Fimo together and then knead them lightly. This creates a beautiful, striped effect.
- To create color gradients: Roll out different colors of Fimo into flat sheets and place them next to each other. Then, roll them together and fold them in half. Repeat this process a few times until you see a gradual transition from one color to another.
Important tips when mixing Fimo clay:
- Make sure the clay you want to mix is soft and pliable. You can warm the clay in your hands if necessary to make it easier to knead.
- Work on a clean surface to prevent unwanted colors or dirt from getting into your clay.
- Always start with small amounts when mixing a new color to avoid using too much of a particular color.
- Knead the clay thoroughly until the color is even.
With a little experimentation, you can create the most beautiful colors and effects with Fimo clay!
How do you soften Fimo clay?
Fimo clay can sometimes become hard if it is old or has not been stored properly. There are several ways to soften it again:
- By kneading: The warmth of your hands can make the clay softer. Knead the clay slowly and firmly.
- Heat: Briefly place the clay near a warm place (for example, on a radiator or in your pocket) to warm it up before kneading.
- Special softeners: There are special softeners for polymer clay (such as Fimo Mix Quick or liquid Fimo) that you can add to make the clay softer.
- Moisture: In some cases, a little bit of water can help, but be careful with this, as too much water can make the clay sticky.
How do you store Fimo clay?
To prevent Fimo clay from drying out, you need to store it airtight. The original packaging is suitable for this, but you can also store the clay in plastic containers or bags. Store it in a cool and dark place.
