Sculpey Premo™ Mermaid Bookmark

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:

Begin by preheating oven to 275 °F (130 °C). After you are done creating; for best results bake clay on an oven-proof surface such metal, aluminum foil, an index card or the Sculpey® Clay Mat at 275°F (130 °C) for 30 minutes per 1/4" (6 mm) thickness according to package directions. Oven safe glass or ceramic surfaces are also acceptable for baking; however please note that the baking 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.

These instructions are based on one-ounce bars of Sculpey PremoTM. Blend 1/8 bar of Turquoise with 1/8 bar of White Gold Glitter. Do not blend them completely together. When you are happy with the partial blend, roll and twist the clay into a rope.

Use 1/2 of the blended color for the body. Divide the other half as shown. The two smaller pieces will be for the fins. The remaining piece is extra.

Shape the large piece into a cone shape that is flat on the back. Shape the two smaller pieces into fins that are fat in the middle and tapered on both ends.

Assemble the parts together as shown on top of the paper clip or you can substitute a Bobby pin. Make sure the parts are touching together well.

Flatten the pieces slightly onto the clip or pin. Carefully flip the tail over and apply some of the scrap clay to the back side to sandwich the clip into place.

Flip the tail back over right side up and smooth the seams. You can use the Flat End tool for smoothing or your fingertips.

Add shape and curves to the tail with the Blunt Point tool.

Add shape and smoothness to the fins with the Blunt Point tool.

Add texture to the fins with the Needle Tool. Add a scale texture to the body with the Flat End tool.

Bake the clay on the paper clip following the baking instructions for Sculpey Premo. Allow to cool completely before handling.