Crafting Polymer Clay Beads: A Beginner's Guide

Sep 12, 2025 by Benjamin Cohen 48 views

Hey guys! Ever wanted to dive into the colorful world of polymer clay? One of the coolest projects you can start with is making your own beads. Whether you're dreaming of designing unique jewelry or just looking for a fun and creative hobby, crafting polymer clay beads is super rewarding. In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know, from gathering your supplies to baking your finished masterpieces. So, let’s get our hands clay-covered and start creating!

What is Polymer Clay and Why Use It?

Before we jump into the nitty-gritty of bead-making, let’s talk about what exactly polymer clay is. Polymer clay is a type of modeling clay that hardens when baked, making it incredibly versatile for all sorts of crafts. Unlike traditional clay that needs to be fired in a kiln, polymer clay can be cured right in your home oven. This makes it a fantastic option for beginners and experienced crafters alike. Its ease of use, vibrant colors, and durability after baking make it an ideal material for creating beads.

Why choose polymer clay for beads, you ask? Well, the possibilities are endless! Polymer clay beads allow you to create custom designs, colors, and shapes that you simply can’t find in stores. You can mix colors to create unique blends, add textures, and even embed other materials into the clay. Plus, making your own beads is a whole lot of fun and can be a super relaxing way to unwind. The flexibility and vibrant color palettes available in polymer clay allow you to craft beads that perfectly match your style and vision. You can create intricate patterns, mimic the look of natural stones, or even add metallic accents for a touch of glam. One of the greatest advantages of using polymer clay is its durability once baked. These beads are sturdy enough to be used in bracelets, necklaces, earrings, and more without the worry of them easily breaking. This makes your handmade jewelry not only beautiful but also long-lasting. Beyond the practical benefits, working with polymer clay is incredibly therapeutic. The tactile nature of molding and shaping the clay can be a fantastic stress reliever, and the creative process of designing your own beads is immensely satisfying. It’s a perfect hobby for anyone looking to express their creativity and make something beautiful with their hands. From beginners just starting their crafting journey to experienced jewelry makers looking for new materials, polymer clay offers a world of possibilities. So, grab your clay, unleash your imagination, and let’s get started on making some stunning beads! Whether you're aiming for a bohemian vibe with earthy tones and organic shapes or a modern, minimalist look with sleek lines and bold colors, polymer clay can bring your ideas to life. The beauty of crafting your own beads lies in the ability to personalize every aspect of the design, making each piece a unique reflection of your creativity and style. Think about the joy of wearing a necklace made entirely of beads you crafted yourself, knowing that no one else in the world has the exact same piece. That’s the magic of handmade crafts, and polymer clay makes it all so accessible and fun. So, are you ready to transform a lump of clay into a collection of beautiful, wearable art? Let’s dive in and explore the wonderful world of polymer clay bead-making!

Essential Supplies for Polymer Clay Beads

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty and talk about what you’ll need to start making your own polymer clay beads. Having the right tools and materials on hand will make the whole process smoother and way more enjoyable. So, gather these essentials, and let’s get crafting!

1. Polymer Clay

First and foremost, you’ll need polymer clay! There are several brands out there, like Sculpey, Premo, and Fimo, each with its own unique properties. For beginners, Sculpey III is a great starting point because it’s soft and easy to work with. Premo and Fimo are a bit firmer, making them ideal for more detailed work. Experiment with different brands to see which one you prefer. You can choose from a rainbow of colors, so pick your favorites and get ready to mix and match. Remember, you can always blend different colors to create custom shades, giving you an endless palette to work with. When selecting your clay, consider the type of finish you want for your beads. Some clays have a matte finish, while others have a more glossy appearance after baking. If you're planning to add surface treatments like paints or varnishes, a matte clay might be a better choice. On the other hand, if you want your beads to have a natural sheen without any additional finishing, a glossy clay might be the way to go. Also, keep in mind the shelf life of polymer clay. Over time, it can become dry and crumbly, making it harder to work with. Store your clay in an airtight container away from heat and direct sunlight to keep it fresh for longer. If you find that your clay is a bit stiff, you can condition it by kneading it in your hands or using a clay conditioning machine, which we'll discuss later. Ultimately, the best way to choose the right polymer clay is to experiment and see what works best for you and your projects. Don't be afraid to try different brands, colors, and finishes until you find your perfect match. The world of polymer clay is vast and exciting, so dive in and let your creativity guide you!

2. Work Surface

You'll need a clean, smooth work surface to protect your furniture and keep your clay free from debris. A ceramic tile, a glass mat, or even a piece of parchment paper works great. Avoid porous surfaces like wood, as they can absorb the oils from the clay and make it sticky. Your work surface is your creative playground, so make sure it’s ready for action! A smooth surface will also prevent unwanted textures from transferring onto your clay, ensuring a professional finish for your beads. Consider investing in a dedicated clay mat if you plan on doing a lot of polymer clay work. These mats are non-stick and easy to clean, making them a worthwhile investment for any serious crafter. If you're working on a table that you also use for other projects, make sure to thoroughly clean it before and after working with clay to prevent contamination. You don't want to end up with bits of clay in your dinner! A clean work area also helps to maintain the color integrity of your clay. Dust, dirt, and other materials can easily get mixed into your clay, especially when working with light colors. By keeping your workspace clean, you can ensure that your colors stay vibrant and true. If you're working on a large project or multiple projects at once, consider using multiple work surfaces to keep things organized. This can help you keep different colors and types of clay separate, preventing accidental mixing and making your workflow more efficient. Remember, your work surface is the foundation of your crafting process, so taking the time to set up a clean and efficient workspace will pay off in the quality of your finished beads. So, roll out your mat, smooth out your parchment paper, and get ready to create!

3. Tools for Shaping and Texturing

This is where the fun really begins! You can use a variety of tools to shape, texture, and detail your polymer clay beads. Some essentials include:

Needle tools or toothpicks: Perfect for making holes in your beads before baking.
Clay sculpting tools: These come in various shapes and sizes, ideal for adding intricate details and textures.
Rolling pin or acrylic roller: To flatten and smooth out your clay.
Cookie cutters or shape cutters: For creating consistent shapes and sizes.

Don't be afraid to get creative with your tools! You can use household items like textured rubber stamps, combs, and even pasta machines to add unique textures and patterns to your beads. The possibilities are endless! When it comes to shaping your beads, think about the different forms you want to create. Spheres are a classic choice, but you can also make oval, tubular, or even freeform shapes. Using a rolling pin or acrylic roller will help you achieve a consistent thickness for your clay, which is especially important if you're making beads that need to match in size. Clay sculpting tools are your best friends for adding fine details and textures. The different shapes of the tools allow you to carve, smooth, and add depth to your designs. Experiment with different tools and techniques to see what effects you can achieve. For example, you can use a ball stylus to create indentations, a blade to make sharp lines, or a texture sheet to imprint a pattern onto your clay. If you're aiming for uniformity, cookie cutters and shape cutters are a lifesaver. They ensure that your beads are all the same size and shape, which is particularly useful for projects like necklaces or bracelets where consistency is key. But don't feel limited by these tools – let your imagination run wild! Use everyday objects to create interesting textures and patterns. Pressing fabric, leaves, or even textured paper onto your clay can create unique and beautiful effects. The key to successful bead-making is experimentation. Try out different tools, techniques, and textures to discover your own signature style. Each tool you use can open up a new avenue for creativity, allowing you to make beads that are truly one-of-a-kind. So, gather your tools, unleash your inner artist, and let's start shaping some amazing beads!

4. Baking Equipment

Once you’ve shaped your beads, it’s time to bake them! Polymer clay needs to be baked at a specific temperature to harden properly, so accurate baking is crucial. You'll need:

Oven: A regular household oven will do just fine. Make sure it maintains a consistent temperature.
Oven thermometer: This is essential to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature. Ovens can be inaccurate, so an oven thermometer will help you avoid under-baking or burning your beads.
Baking surface: You can use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a ceramic tile. This prevents the beads from sticking and ensures even baking.

Baking is the final step in transforming your soft clay creations into durable beads. It's important to follow the baking instructions on your clay package carefully to achieve the best results. The temperature and baking time can vary depending on the brand and type of clay you're using, so always double-check the recommendations. An oven thermometer is your best friend during the baking process. It will give you an accurate reading of the temperature inside your oven, ensuring that your beads are baked at the right temperature. Under-baked clay will be soft and brittle, while over-baked clay can become discolored and potentially release harmful fumes. So, take the time to monitor the temperature and adjust as needed. When placing your beads on the baking surface, make sure they're not touching each other. This will allow heat to circulate evenly around each bead, resulting in a more consistent bake. You can also use a tent of aluminum foil to cover your beads while they're baking. This helps to prevent them from browning too quickly and ensures they bake evenly throughout. After baking, let your beads cool completely before handling them. They will be slightly soft when they first come out of the oven, but they will harden as they cool. Once they're cool, you can start using them in your jewelry projects or store them for future use. Remember, baking is a crucial step in the bead-making process, so take your time, follow the instructions carefully, and enjoy the satisfaction of seeing your creations harden into beautiful, durable beads. With the right equipment and a little patience, you'll be baking like a pro in no time!

5. Optional but Helpful Tools

There are a few extra tools that can make your polymer clay bead making even easier and more fun:

Clay conditioning machine: This helps to soften and condition your clay quickly and evenly.
Liquid polymer clay: Great for creating glazes, transfers, and bonding pieces together.
Sandpaper and polishing tools: For smoothing and polishing your baked beads.
Varnishes and sealants: To add shine and protect your finished beads.

While these tools aren't strictly necessary, they can definitely enhance your crafting experience and the quality of your finished beads. A clay conditioning machine, for example, is a fantastic investment if you work with polymer clay frequently. It takes the effort out of conditioning the clay by evenly mixing and softening it, saving you time and energy. Liquid polymer clay is another versatile addition to your toolkit. It can be used as a glue to bond pieces of clay together before baking, as a glaze to add a glossy finish, or as a medium for transferring images onto your clay. It opens up a whole new world of creative possibilities! After baking, your beads may have some imperfections or rough edges. Sandpaper and polishing tools can help you smooth these out and give your beads a professional-looking finish. Start with a coarser grit sandpaper and gradually work your way up to finer grits for the smoothest result. To add shine and protect your beads from wear and tear, consider using varnishes and sealants. These come in a variety of finishes, from glossy to matte, allowing you to customize the look of your beads. A sealant will also protect your beads from dirt, oils, and UV damage, ensuring they stay beautiful for years to come. These optional tools can truly take your polymer clay bead making to the next level. They can help you achieve more intricate designs, a smoother finish, and greater durability for your beads. So, if you're serious about your crafting, consider adding these to your collection. With the right tools and a little practice, you'll be creating stunning polymer clay beads that you'll be proud to wear and share!

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Polymer Clay Beads

Okay, now that we’ve got our supplies sorted, let’s get into the fun part: actually making the polymer clay beads! Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create your own unique beads.

1. Condition the Clay

Before you start shaping your clay, it needs to be conditioned. This means kneading and working the clay until it’s soft and pliable. If the clay is too firm, it can be difficult to shape and may crack during baking. You can condition the clay by hand, rolling it, and folding it repeatedly, or use a clay conditioning machine for faster results. The goal is to make the clay smooth and consistent throughout, so it's easy to mold and shape into beads. Conditioning the clay also helps to remove any air bubbles that might be trapped inside. Air bubbles can cause your beads to crack or explode during baking, so it's important to eliminate them before you start shaping. As you knead the clay, you'll notice it becoming more flexible and less likely to crumble. This is a sign that it's properly conditioned and ready to use. If you're using a clay conditioning machine, simply feed the clay through the rollers multiple times, gradually decreasing the thickness until it reaches the desired consistency. This method is particularly helpful for large projects or when working with a lot of clay at once. Remember, well-conditioned clay is the foundation of beautiful beads. It will make the shaping process easier, ensure a smoother finish, and reduce the risk of cracking during baking. So, take the time to condition your clay properly, and you'll be rewarded with stunning, durable beads that you'll be proud to wear and share. Whether you choose to condition your clay by hand or with a machine, the key is to be patient and persistent. Keep working the clay until it's soft, smooth, and ready to be transformed into works of art.

2. Shape the Beads

Now comes the creative part! Roll the conditioned polymer clay into balls, logs, or any shape you desire. For consistent sizes, you can use a bead roller or a template. Get creative with your shapes – try squares, triangles, or even abstract forms. This is where your personality shines through! To create round beads, start by rolling the clay into a log and then cutting it into equal pieces. Roll each piece between your palms to form a smooth sphere. For more complex shapes, you can use sculpting tools to carve and mold the clay. If you're making multiple beads of the same shape, using a template or a cookie cutter can help you achieve consistency. This is especially important for projects like necklaces or bracelets where you want the beads to be uniform in size and shape. Don't be afraid to experiment with different textures and patterns. You can use stamps, textured rollers, or even household objects to add unique designs to your beads. Pressing the clay onto textured surfaces can create intricate patterns, while carving tools can be used to add fine details and embellishments. Remember, there are no rules when it comes to shaping your beads. Let your imagination run wild and see what you can create! You can mix different colors of clay to create marbled effects, add metallic powders for a touch of shimmer, or even embed other materials like beads or glitter into the clay. The possibilities are endless! As you shape your beads, think about how they will fit together in your finished project. Consider the size, shape, and color of each bead and how they will complement each other. A well-thought-out design will result in a stunning piece of jewelry that you'll love to wear. So, gather your clay, your tools, and your imagination, and let's start shaping some amazing beads! This is where the magic happens, so have fun and let your creativity shine.

3. Add Details and Textures

This is where you can really make your polymer clay beads stand out! Use sculpting tools to add intricate patterns, textures, or even small embellishments. You can also incorporate other materials like glitter, microbeads, or metal leaf. Get creative and personalize your beads to reflect your style. If you're aiming for a rustic look, try using a needle tool to create small indentations or scratches on the surface of the clay. These imperfections will add character and give your beads a handmade feel. For a more polished look, you can use sculpting tools to smooth out the surface and create clean lines and curves. Textures can be added using a variety of techniques. Pressing fabric, leaves, or textured paper onto the clay can create unique patterns. You can also use texture sheets, which are specially designed with intricate patterns that can be easily transferred onto the clay. If you're feeling ambitious, you can even create your own textures using everyday objects. Adding small embellishments can also enhance the look of your beads. Glitter, microbeads, and metal leaf can be pressed into the surface of the clay to add sparkle and shine. You can also use liquid polymer clay as a glue to attach beads, stones, or other decorative elements to your beads. When adding details, it's important to work carefully and precisely. Use small, controlled movements to avoid distorting the shape of your beads. If you make a mistake, don't worry! You can always smooth out the clay and start over. The beauty of polymer clay is that it's forgiving and allows for experimentation. Remember, the details are what make your beads unique and special. Take your time, have fun, and let your creativity guide you. Whether you're adding intricate patterns, subtle textures, or dazzling embellishments, your beads will be a reflection of your personal style and artistic vision. So, grab your tools, your materials, and your imagination, and let's add some amazing details to your beads!

4. Make the Holes

Before baking, you’ll need to make holes in your polymer clay beads so you can string them later. Use a needle tool, a toothpick, or a skewer to create the holes. Make sure the holes are large enough for your stringing material but not so large that they weaken the bead. Gently twist the tool as you push it through the clay to create a clean hole. The placement of the holes is also important. For most beads, you'll want to make the holes in the center so they hang evenly. However, you can also create off-center holes for a more asymmetrical look. If you're making long beads, consider adding multiple holes so you can use them in different ways. When making the holes, be careful not to distort the shape of your beads. Support the bead with your fingers as you push the tool through the clay. If the clay is too soft, you can chill the beads in the refrigerator for a few minutes to firm them up before making the holes. After making the holes, check to make sure they are smooth and free of any rough edges. You can use a small piece of sandpaper or a needle tool to clean up the edges and ensure they won't snag on your stringing material. The size of the holes will depend on the type of stringing material you plan to use. If you're using thin string or wire, small holes will suffice. However, if you're using thicker cords or ribbons, you'll need to make larger holes. It's always better to err on the side of making the holes slightly larger than you think you'll need, as you can always use smaller stringing material. Remember, the holes are an essential part of your beads, as they determine how you'll be able to use them in your projects. Take your time, make the holes carefully, and you'll be one step closer to creating beautiful and functional beads. So, grab your tools, your beads, and let's make some perfect holes!

5. Bake the Beads

Now it's time to bake your polymer clay beads! Preheat your oven according to the clay manufacturer’s instructions – usually around 275°F (135°C). Place your beads on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a ceramic tile. Bake for the recommended time, typically 15-30 minutes, depending on the thickness of the beads. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate temperature, as ovens can vary. Baking is a crucial step in the process, as it's what hardens the clay and makes your beads durable. It's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully to avoid under-baking or over-baking your beads. Under-baked clay will be soft and brittle, while over-baked clay can become discolored and release harmful fumes. An oven thermometer is your best friend during the baking process. It will give you an accurate reading of the temperature inside your oven, ensuring that your beads are baked at the right temperature. If you find that your oven runs hot, you can try lowering the temperature slightly or reducing the baking time. Conversely, if your oven runs cool, you may need to increase the temperature or baking time slightly. When placing your beads on the baking sheet, make sure they're not touching each other. This will allow heat to circulate evenly around each bead, resulting in a more consistent bake. You can also use a tent of aluminum foil to cover your beads while they're baking. This helps to prevent them from browning too quickly and ensures they bake evenly throughout. After baking, let your beads cool completely before handling them. They will be slightly soft when they first come out of the oven, but they will harden as they cool. Once they're cool, you can start using them in your jewelry projects or store them for future use. Remember, baking is the final step in transforming your soft clay creations into durable beads. Take your time, follow the instructions carefully, and enjoy the satisfaction of seeing your creations harden into beautiful, long-lasting beads. With the right equipment and a little patience, you'll be baking like a pro in no time!

6. Finishing Touches

Once your polymer clay beads are baked and cooled, you can add finishing touches to enhance their appearance and durability. This might include sanding rough edges, polishing for shine, or applying a varnish or sealant for protection. Sanding can help to smooth out any imperfections on the surface of your beads. Start with a coarser grit sandpaper and gradually work your way up to finer grits for the smoothest result. Be sure to sand in a well-ventilated area, as sanding can create dust. Polishing can add a beautiful shine to your beads. You can use a polishing cloth or a rotary tool with a polishing attachment to achieve a high-gloss finish. Polishing not only enhances the appearance of your beads but also helps to remove any fine scratches or imperfections. A varnish or sealant can provide a protective layer for your beads, preventing them from being scratched, chipped, or damaged by UV light. There are many different types of varnishes and sealants available, so choose one that is specifically designed for use with polymer clay. Some varnishes will add a glossy finish, while others will leave a matte finish. The choice is yours! When applying a varnish or sealant, be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Apply thin, even coats and allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next. You may need to apply multiple coats to achieve the desired level of protection. Finishing touches can make a big difference in the overall look and durability of your beads. Taking the time to sand, polish, and seal your beads will result in a professional-looking finished product that you'll be proud to wear and share. So, grab your finishing tools, your beads, and let's add those final touches that will make your beads shine!

Design Ideas for Polymer Clay Beads

Now that you know how to make polymer clay beads, let's talk design! The possibilities are truly endless, but here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

Marbled Beads: Mix different colors of clay for a stunning marbled effect.
Textured Beads: Use stamps, molds, or household items to add textures and patterns.
Metallic Beads: Incorporate metallic powders or leaf for a touch of glam.
Sculptural Beads: Create unique shapes and designs using sculpting tools.
Faux Stone Beads: Mimic the look of natural stones like turquoise or jade.

The beauty of polymer clay is its versatility. You can create beads that are simple and elegant or bold and colorful. You can mimic the look of natural materials or create entirely new and unique designs. The key is to experiment and have fun! When designing your beads, think about the overall look you want to achieve. Are you aiming for a bohemian vibe, a modern minimalist style, or something else entirely? Consider the colors, shapes, and textures you want to use and how they will work together. Marbled beads are a classic choice that adds a touch of elegance to any project. Simply mix different colors of clay together and roll them into beads to create a beautiful, swirled effect. Textured beads are a great way to add visual interest to your designs. You can use stamps, molds, or even household items like combs or lace to create unique patterns on the surface of the clay. Metallic beads are perfect for adding a touch of glamour to your projects. Incorporate metallic powders or leaf into the clay for a shimmering effect. Sculptural beads allow you to create truly one-of-a-kind designs. Use sculpting tools to mold and shape the clay into unique forms. Faux stone beads are a fun way to mimic the look of natural stones like turquoise, jade, or lapis lazuli. Experiment with different colors and textures to create realistic-looking stone beads. No matter what design you choose, the most important thing is to have fun and let your creativity shine. Polymer clay is a forgiving medium, so don't be afraid to experiment and try new things. With a little practice, you'll be creating stunning beads that are uniquely your own. So, grab your clay, your tools, and your imagination, and let's start designing some amazing beads!

Tips and Tricks for Working with Polymer Clay

To help you become a polymer clay bead-making pro, here are some handy tips and tricks:

Keep your clay clean: Dust and debris can easily get stuck in the clay, so work on a clean surface and wash your hands frequently.
Condition your clay thoroughly: Well-conditioned clay is easier to work with and less likely to crack.
Store clay properly: Keep unused clay in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
Use the right baking temperature: An oven thermometer is essential for accurate baking.
Don't over-bake: Over-baked clay can become brittle and release fumes.
Let beads cool completely: They’ll be slightly soft when they first come out of the oven but will harden as they cool.

Working with polymer clay can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience, but it's important to keep a few things in mind to ensure the best results. Keeping your clay clean is essential for preventing unwanted particles from getting mixed in. Work on a clean surface and wash your hands frequently to remove any dust, dirt, or oils that could contaminate the clay. Thoroughly conditioning your clay is crucial for achieving a smooth and consistent texture. Well-conditioned clay is easier to shape and mold, and it's less likely to crack or crumble. Take the time to knead and work the clay until it's soft and pliable. Proper storage is key to preserving the quality of your clay. Store unused clay in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out and becoming crumbly. You can also wrap the clay in plastic wrap or place it in a resealable bag before storing it in the container. Baking your clay at the right temperature is essential for ensuring it hardens properly. Use an oven thermometer to monitor the temperature and make sure your oven is accurate. Baking the clay at too low a temperature can result in soft, brittle beads, while baking it at too high a temperature can cause the clay to scorch or burn. Over-baking your clay can also cause it to release fumes, which can be harmful. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and bake the clay for the recommended time. After baking, it's important to let your beads cool completely before handling them. The clay will be slightly soft when it first comes out of the oven, but it will harden as it cools. Handling the beads while they're still warm can cause them to become misshapen. By following these tips and tricks, you can become a polymer clay bead-making pro and create beautiful, durable beads that you'll be proud to wear and share. So, grab your clay, your tools, and your creativity, and let's get started!

Conclusion

So there you have it, guys! Making polymer clay beads is a fantastic way to unleash your creativity and craft unique jewelry and accessories. With a little practice and the right supplies, you'll be creating stunning beads in no time. Remember to have fun and experiment with different techniques and designs. Happy crafting!

From gathering your supplies to baking your finished creations, we’ve covered all the essential steps to get you started on your polymer clay bead-making journey. Remember, the key to successful bead-making is patience, practice, and a whole lot of creativity. Don't be afraid to experiment with different colors, shapes, and textures to find your own unique style. Polymer clay is a versatile and forgiving medium, so there's plenty of room for trial and error. With each bead you make, you'll learn something new and refine your skills. Whether you're a beginner just starting out or an experienced crafter looking for a new challenge, polymer clay bead-making offers endless possibilities for creative expression. You can create beads that are simple and elegant, bold and colorful, or anything in between. The only limit is your imagination! So, gather your supplies, clear your workspace, and let your creativity flow. Start with a simple design and gradually work your way up to more complex projects. Don't be discouraged if your first few beads aren't perfect. The more you practice, the better you'll become. And most importantly, remember to have fun! Crafting should be a relaxing and enjoyable experience. So, put on some music, grab a cup of tea, and let your creativity soar. We hope this guide has inspired you to start making your own polymer clay beads. Whether you're creating jewelry for yourself, making gifts for friends and family, or even selling your creations online, the satisfaction of crafting something beautiful with your own hands is truly rewarding. So, go ahead, give it a try, and discover the wonderful world of polymer clay bead-making! Happy crafting, and we can't wait to see what amazing beads you create!