How can i make beads from clay?

Question

I am trying to make beads from clay but its not turning out so good. Does anyone know how to make good lookning beads from clay?

Answer 1

You don't mention what type of "clay" you're using, but millions of different kinds of beads (in all kinds of shapes, colors, patterns) can be made from polymer clays in particular (those are "oven-bake" clays like Fimo, Premo, Kato, Sculpey, Cernit, etc.).

I have a polymer clay "encyclopedia" website which has loads of info, lessons, tips, etc., on all aspects of polymer clay, including making beads and other jewelry from it.  You don't say what kinds of things "aren't turning out well" so I can't offer any specific advice here, but check out some of these pages at my site to get a lot of helpful info:

                                        

http://glassattic.com/polymer/beads.htm

... http://glassattic.com/polymer/beads-hole...

http://glassattic.com/polymer/jewelry.ht... (necklaces,bracelets,earrings,hair,etc)

http://glassattic.com/polymer/baking.htm

Also, this is the "Table of Contents" page for the whole site... it can help with finding all the stuff that's there, and where it might be:

http://glassattic.com/polymer/contents.h...

You can also post a more specific question here, then  I or others can answer more specifically.

HTH,

Diane B.

Answer 2

The best way to do it it to get Sculpy clay, the kind that will only set once you bake it. Make the shape you want, then I reccomend glazing it to achieve glossy color. If you don't want them glossy, bake them and then paint them, the set the paint.

I love beading... have fun!