Sculpey III® Checkerboard Frame

Step 1

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.

Step 2

To prepare the frame, paint the edges and the back where areas of the frame will not be covered with clay in a coordinating paint color.

Step 3

Squirt a bead of Sculpey Oven Bake Clay Adhesive on all four sides of the front of the frame.

Step 4

Spread the clay adhesive in a smooth layer with your fingertips. Wipe up excess from fingers and work areas with paper towel.

Step 5

Roll the entire Spring Lilac bar to a sheet 1/8” thick.
Cut the sheet into strips as wide as the frame sides.
Carefully place trimmed strips on the sides of the frame making straight seams where the pieces touch in the corner.
Use fingertips to smooth out trapped air bubbles.

Step 6

Cover all four sides with clay strips.
Trim the excess with the Clay Blade.

Step 7

Smooth the corner seams with your fingertips.

Step 8

Roll the White clay to a thin sheet 1/16” thick. Cut strips that are 1/2 as wide as the sides of the frame.

Step 9

Cut the strips into squares and arrange them on the clay frame as shown.

Step 10

Trim the outside and inside edges with the Clay Blade.
Bake the entire frame following the baking instructions for Sculpey III.
Allow to cool completely before handling.