Softening polymer clays like sculpey or fimo.....

Hi welcome to the addiction known as polymer clay! This is such an awesome product. Just when you think you have learned all you can learn; someone else comes out with a new technique. Anyway (sorry I love polymer clay so I get excited); there are many different ways of conditioning clay. Proper conditioning is important because it distributes the plasticizers so when it bakes up it will be nice and strong. Make sure the clay is nice and warm to begin with. One way is to slice it into thin slices and pass it repeatedly through a pasta machine (don't use for food once you use for clay). Fold and put thru over and over till the clay is soft and pliable. OR you can hit it with a rubber mallet or an acrylic rod if it is really hard before you knead it with your hands. Sometimes the clay will be crumbly. If it is and won't come together after kneading or using the pasta machine a bit; then you need to use something to soften it. You don't need anything expensive - in fact you probably already have some in your home - use a few (2-3) drops of baby or mineral oil. Let sit and then knead it in. You can repeat if needed. Just remember to only use a few drops at a time and allow it time to soak in. Hope that helps!!

Yes, dishwashing soap sounds like of slimy. I think I made some clay or children's stuff with liquid starch once.. I haven't heard of any softening agents for fimo -I bought some and it was difficult to work with because it was so hard, but have you tried to give it a few seconds in thd microwave to warm it up and make it more pliable. Warning: I've never tried my own advice, lol. :) Good luck!

I use mineral oil and a hand crank pasta machine. Check your local thrift store for a used machine. I got mine free. I also let my husband knead it at night when we are watching t.v. it is easier to get soft again later. I personally prefer scupley III for its ease to condition, I have never damage in my arm and it is the one that is easiest for me but is not to soft once conditioned for what I do.

I love your way of "cheap" thinking! Did you try doing an internet search engine search? I can give you many uses for Avon's Skin So Soft, but that's not one of them. Laughing with you, not at you `Donna

My favorite way of softening (conditioning) clay is to use a food processor. It's amazing how soft and pliable it gets! But if you do use a food processor, don't use it for food afterwards. If your clay is still a bit firm, I would use a couple drops of the liquid clay when mixing it. It may seem a bit pricey, but a little bit goes a long way. I hope this helps!