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How to Make Polyester Clay Soft

Polyester is a type of polymer that's made of natural and synthetic materials. Like any type of polymer clay, polyester clay dries out and cracks if it isn't stored or prepared properly. Conditioning, or softening, the clay is typically done by working it with the hands. The warmth and oils produced by the hands alters the clay's texture, making it softer. Some polyester clays harden to the point of needing more complex softening methods.

Things You'll Need

Large bowl
Small bowl
Water
Large plate
Plasticizer
Knife
Clay softening liquid
Petroleum jelly

Instructions

- 1
  Fill a large bowl three-quarters from the top with hot water. Place the hardened polyester clay in the small bowl and place the small bowl in the large bowl so it floats on top of the water. Cover the large bowl with a plate and leave the clay for 5 minutes. The steam will soften the clay.
- 2
  Cut a piece of plasticizer that's no more than a third the size of the hardened polyester clay with a knife. Work the piece of plasticizer into the hardened clay until the clay is soft and you can no longer see the translucent plasticizer.
- 3
  Place a half teaspoon of clay softening liquid to a flat surface. Roll the hardened polyester clay in the softening liquid until it becomes soft. Add more drops of softening liquid as required.
- 4
  Place the piece of hardened polyester clay in one hand and add approximately 1/4 teaspoon of petroleum jelly to the clay. Work the jelly into the clay with your hands until the clay is soft. Add more petroleum jelly as required.

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