Fixing Sticky Polymer Clay: How I Leached Arteza Clay for Miniature Holiday Decor

Tackling Sticky Polymer Clay: Autumn Miniatures in the Studio

It is still pretty warm here in California, and while working on a new batch of autumn and holiday miniatures, I noticed my Arteza polymer clay was feeling unusually soft and sticky. Warm studio temperatures combined with higher oil content in the clay can make fine detail sculpting a bit tricky!

I remembered seeing a classic technique online to fix sticky polymer clay: leaching out the excess oil. I ran the clay through my pasta machine to create a smooth sheet, then sandwiched it between two sheets of regular printer paper.

I checked on it after 15 minutes, but the clay was still a little too tacky. I gave it another 20 minutes, and sure enough, the printer paper absorbed just enough of the extra oil to bring the clay back to a firm, workable consistency. After that, I was able to get back to sculpting without the clay losing its shape or sticking to my hands.

Of all the pieces in this batch—from tiny pumpkins to festive witch hats—I think my favorite piece so far is the little textured sweater!

What do you think? A few of these pieces will definitely be finding a home in my own 1:12 scale dollhouses, while others will be hitting the shop storefront later this week.