Using molds made from many sources, including antique buttons
and rubber stamps, beautiful buttons can be made from polymer clay. How
to do this using Polyform's SuperElasticlay was detailed in my article
"Making a Great Impression" in the August
1998 issue of Bead and Button magazine. To find out even more, be
sure to read "Create A Polymer Clay Impression".
More recent is an article in Belle Armoire Magazine, featuring the use
of RTV silicone mold making materials. "Celebrations
With Polymer Clay" includes a section on how to sculpt a face medallion,
and then make your own mold for use---and ho to make buttons too.
Besides the obvious advantage of endless color choices, one advantage
to the use of polymer clay is that you can make matching earrings and beads
as well! Fabric colors and patterns can be coordinated with wonderful effects.
Buttons make a real statement on handwovens, on designer fashions, and
even on accessories and furniture.
When AMACO asked me test the suitability of Classic FIMO for use as
buttons, I did a comparison study. What I found was that the buttons held
up quite well indeed! American Art Clay used the buttons in their ad in
Jewelry Crafts recently, and if you'd like to see the chart showing the
raw, baked and washed examples compared, click here.
Premo also holds up well to washing. Click here
to see more examples of both kinds of clay buttons that have been washed
and dried many times.
Buttons can be specially created for
each individual textile, and the results are very eye-catching, particularly
when combined with tassels and beads.
Pearl-Ex powders, and FIMO metallic powders called Bronzepulver are
used for the shimmering highlights.
The Pearl-Ex powders are made with a mica formulation, whereas the Bronzpulver
is made with ground Aluminum, and requires more precautions in use.
ALWAYS wear a mask and move slowly when using pure ground pigments or
bronzpulvers. Use care with all powders!
The Pearl-Ex powders are available in a line of metallic, interference
colors, and pearl tones.
A chart with some of the Pearl-Ex colors can be seen below. Other colors
are now available too! Note that the effect is different on dark and light
backgrounds.This can be a very useful effect.
These pieces can also be used without button backs as mosaic
elements. Try them in scrap booking or to make greeting cards. Making and
recording a sample of each in a button form is a good way to keep track
of stamps and molds. I've collected some of my samples for view shown with
bronze powder on black clay.
