Creative ways to finish and display your polymer clay creations

As any polymer clay enthusiast knows, the fun doesn't stop when the baking is done. In fact, the final steps of finishing and displaying your polymer clay creations can be just as rewarding and exciting as the creation process itself. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, here are some creative ways to take your polymer clay pieces to the next level and showcase them in all their glory:

Give your piece a glossy finish: One easy way to elevate your polymer clay creation is to give it a glossy finish. This can be achieved by applying a coat of varnish or clear nail polish after baking. Not only does this add depth and shine to your piece, it also helps protect it from wear and tear.

Experiment with glazes: Another option for adding shine to your polymer clay creations is to use glazes. These special finishes come in a range of colors and can be applied to your piece to give it a glossy or matte finish. Not only do glazes add a professional touch to your work, they also help to seal and protect your piece.

Create a patina: If you're looking for a more antique or aged look, try applying a patina to your polymer clay creation. Patinas are chemical treatments that can be used to give your piece a weathered, vintage appearance. You can find commercial patina solutions at art supply stores, or you can try mixing your own using household chemicals. Just be sure to use caution and follow all safety instructions when working with chemicals.

Add some sparkle and shine: Who doesn't love a little bit of glitter and metallic shine? You can easily add some sparkle to your polymer clay creations by sprinkling glitter over your piece or by using metallic paints. These finishes are especially effective on small, detailed areas or as accents on larger pieces.

Display your piece in a shadow box: Shadow boxes are a great way to showcase small polymer clay creations, as they provide a deep frame that allows you to create a visually appealing display. Simply place your piece on a background of your choice and add other decorative elements, such as paper, fabric, or other small objects, to create a miniature world inside the box.

Create a diorama: If you're feeling particularly ambitious, why not create a small-scale model of a scene using your polymer clay creations? You can use a clear container, such as a jar or a fish tank, and build a miniature world inside, complete with buildings, trees, and other details. This is a fun and creative way to display your work and bring it to life.

Turn your piece into a pendant or brooch: If you've made a small polymer clay sculpture, you can easily turn it into a piece of wearable art by attaching a pin or a jump ring to the back. Simply drill a small hole in your piece (making sure to do this before baking) and attach the pin or jump ring using a strong glue, such as E6000. You can then wear your creation as a brooch or pendant.

Hang your piece on a wall: If you've made a large or flat polymer clay creation, consider displaying it as a piece of wall art. You can use a picture hanger or a wire to hang your piece, or you can mount it on a canvas or a wooden board. This is a great way to show off your work and add some personal flair to your home decor.

Whether you're looking to add some shine, create an aged effect, or display your work in a unique way, there are plenty of creative options for finishing and displaying your polymer clay creations. The sky's the limit, so have fun and let your