Food for Thought: Polymer Clay Food Baking by Angela Wybrow

 

Polymer Clay Food produced by Angela Wybrow
Photo Courtesy of Angela Wybrow

About a year ago, I decided to try my hand at creating some miniature polymer clay food, which I could use in conjunction with my collection of 18 inch dolls. 

I always try to make the items look as realistic as possible - with varying results - but, on the whole, I am usually really pleased with the outcome.  Photos of some of my creations, which I have posted online, have actually been mistaken for the real thing! I research the colours, textures, layering, etc, online, and then try to replicate in miniature. 

I usually create the food, using a light base colour, bake it (at Gas Mark 2, or 150 C), then add realistic colouring, using acrylic paint - either brushed on, or smeared on by hand, if the colouring requires a softer tone. However, on some occasions, I have the perfect colour clay in my collection, which requires little or no additional painting at all. 

Maximum baking time is 30 minutes, but, depending on the size of my creation, I often bake for less time. I sometimes bake additional layers onto the original, making sure that I stay within the time limit. When the items are removed from the oven, they are still slightly soft, so they need to be left to cool and fully harden.

I have often read of people who have accidentally burnt their creations, either by having the heat too high, or leaving them in for too long. This hasn't happened to me - YET! I am always really careful - I always double check the oven setting, and always set a timer. 

If I am creating a batch of jam tarts, for example, I will create the pastry casing and bake, before filling with acrylic paint, mixed with glue (I tend to use wood glue, due to it's consistency). Then, I leave to set for a few hours, and, once dry to the touch, I paint on a extra layer of glue, to make the jam look lovely and shiny! 

I find it very relaxing and therapeutic working with the clay. It also helps focus my mind. I am constantly adding to the list of things which I would like to create. It is one of a number of ways in which I like to be creative. Onwards and upwards!