Ask the Experts Polymer Clay Q&A

Can leaf foil be used on raw polyclay and then baked? If so, should it be covered with a thin sheet of translucent clay or glazed after baking? Can it be used in the mokume-gane technique?

- Diana

Yes, you can use foil leaf on unbaked/uncured clay. For mokume gane and other polymer clay projects, you can use gold, silver or copper leaf mixed in with your color choice of polymer clay. You can mix translucent clay in, but you don't necessarily have to cover the foil, unless you are going for a desired look.

You can create a beautiful crackle finish by applying a leaf sheet to a layer of uncured polymer clay. Run the clay, with the leaf sheet, through the poly-roller machine or thin and stretch the clay out by rolling with an acrylic roller. Continue with your design and bake at the recommended temperature. Add a coat of Mona Lisa™ Metal Leaf™ sealant for a glossy, protective finish for your fabulous metallic leaf design.

- Elaine Young, Fire Mountain Jewelry Designer