Is it time for R E S I S T E N C E !?

When it comes to resistance, there are a lot of preferences in the clay world. Some like water. Some like oil. Some like cornstarch. Some like a special, but expensive preparation made for resisting polymer clay.

BUT the best I've found is good old household baking soda.

Why?

It is fine enough to lay down a good dusting of material that doesn't make the clay become mushy or slippery (water) and is easy to wash off leaving absolutely no residue behind (cornstarch).

 

While  you could brush it on, brushing is more difficult to control and can clump up in places where it isn't needed. Or sprinkle with your fingers. Again, not a really desirable coating and you may not want it on your fingers while you work on other clay pieces.

 

What I found that works the best is using a pouncer. A small fabric bag that holds the powder and because of the porous nature of the fabric, when 'pounced' or tapped on anything, leaves behind a nice even coating of power.

Pouncers have a long history. They were originally used to tap on the ink from an old time ink well to dry the ink so it wouldn't smear. Think quill pens and calligraphy.

Since I like to make useful, inexpensive, but long-lasting tools, I really have fun making these little guys! I found that baby socks offer the best thickness of porous fabric in a solid, no seam, pouch that dispenses just the right amount of powder where it's tapped. There is enough baking soda in each bag to last a really long time. BUT, it is tied shut so it can be refilled.

These look really happy and fun on my work table. So I've added a small charm to each one to just brighten your day!

Yes, you could make this yourself - I even have instructions for doing it - but why get all the 'extra' parts when you really only need one! They would make a great little gift in a basket of goodies for a friend too!

See all of the styles and colors available in the latest restock - RESIST SOCK