Original Sculpey® Cactus in a Pot

Getting Started:

Please make sure your work area is covered and you are not working on an unprotected surface. We recommend working on the Sculpey® Oven-Safe Work Mat, wax paper, metal baking sheet, or disposable foil. Uncured clay may damage unprotected furniture or finished surfaces. Be sure to cover your crafting area appropriately.

Start with clean hands, unwrap and knead clay until soft and smooth, or condition by running clay though a Pasta Machine. We recommend using a designated machine for clay purposes only. When working with multiple colors, clean hands with soap and water or baby wipes (we have found that baby wipes work best) before switching colors. Shape clay, pressing pieces firmly together. Wash hands after use.

Baking (also called Curing):

Begin by preheating oven to 275 °F (130 °C). After you are done creating; for best results bake/cure clay on an oven-proof surface such metal, aluminum foil, an index card or the Sculpey® Clay Mat at 275°F (130 °C) for 15 minutes per 1/4" (6 mm) thickness according to package directions. Oven safe glass or ceramic surfaces are also acceptable for baking/curing; however please note that the baking/curing times may take longer as the glass or ceramic surfaces take longer to heat up. For best baking results, use an oven thermometer. DO NOT USE MICROWAVE OVEN. DO NOT EXCEED THE ABOVE TEMPERATURE OR RECOMMENDED BAKING TIME.

Roll out three tapered logs with one being longer than the other two and trim both ends of the shorter logs. The longer log will be the base of the cactus.

Place both tapered logs on each side of the cactus to make the arms, take your needle tool or toothpick and blend each piece onto the cactus base. Smooth out any rough edges from blending with your fingers

Make three small balls and slightly flatten. Take your needle tool and make two indents on the top of each circle to make the flowers. Trim the bottoms off the flowers to sit on each cactus arm.

Bake the cactus according to Step 1

Paint your cactus according to preference, take a small paint brush to make dashes in the cactus to give it texture. Paint the flowers and add any desired details

Take your dotting tool and paint to give your cactus a face

Once dried, fill the terra cotta pot with rocks and leave an indent to insert the cactus

Place the cactus in the indent and glaze if you'd like a glossy finish