Top 10 Polymer Clay Tools That Won't Break The Bank

When I first started working with polymer clay, I found it quite overwhelming to walk into my local craft supplies store, only to find dozens of overpriced tools, some of which I wasn't quite sure how to use in the first place. It didn't help that almost every YouTube video and social media post seemed to feature pasta rollers, specialty cutters, silicone tools, and ceramic tiles.

Thankfully, I had other options. Some had come from old craft kits from my childhood. Others were improvisations, left over from when I had done work with plasticine during my short stint as a wannabe TikTok art influencer. A few others I'd amassed over the years, getting creative with things I found in the recycling bin, or repurposing objects I already had lying around.

While I'm no expert, I hope this will help you feel better equipped to dive into the world of polymer clay, without the need to spend your life savings on complicated (and unnecessary) tools!

1. Toothpicks

   While mostly useful in the kitchen, toothpicks can actually be a handy tool for any aspiring polymer clay artist. They are extremely handy for adding details, texture, and small holes to your objects. They can also be used to move around small pieces you don't want to get squished, holding up pieces to avoid getting your finger prints on them, or mixing liquid clay.

   
   

2. Cotton Swabs

   Unfortunately, this only applies to disposable cotton swabs. Their slightly fluffy nature makes them perfect for adding chalk pastels to your pieces, or getting rid of lint and finger print smudges once you've dipped them in a little nail polish remover! Like toothpicks, they can also be used to move pieces around without risking fingerprint smudges or other damage to the piece.

   
   

3. X-Acto Knives

   These are one of the most useful tools you could invest in. They can be used to cut out pieces, slice canes, add details, move pieces, mix liquid clay, and so much more! This is one of those things you likely have lying around your house already, and they are relatively easy to find (and affordable) if you do not. I found mine at the local dollar store for a very reasonable price, it came with a few replacement blades, and has lasted me a number of years now!

   
   

4. Glass Jars

   Yet another object that is likely lying around your house, or easy to find at the dollar store. While I normally use mine for storage, I've also seen people use them to roll out clay, or to hold up small pieces to make them easier to work with. You could also use the jar mouth or lid to cut out large circles.

   
   

5. Ceramic Tiles

   While not essential, these are still one of my favorite tools and have earned their spot on this list. They're great to have as a clean, elevated workspace, and they're safe to bake! That means you can leave your pieces on them and stick them straight into the oven, rather than running the risk of damaging your work as you try to transfer them onto a baking sheet. They are also surprisingly affordable. I found mine at my local hardware store, buying two 6x6 tiles for less than $1 each!

   
   

6. Paintbrushes

   Once again, if you don't have one of these lying around, they're easy enough to find for pretty cheap. Stiffer brushes are great for adding detail, while softer brushes are useful for adding chalk pastels to bring depth and shading to your pieces. The handles can be used as a ball tool to add indents or larger holes to your pieces as well.

   
   

7. Sticky Notes

   This one may be a little unconventional, but I use them all the time. They make great disposable palettes for mixing liquid clay. If you know a little bit of origami, you can also make containers for holding pre-baked "sprinkles", or or other details. In a pinch, you could also fold one up and use it to add detail.

   
   

8. Cookie Cutters

   While I don't recommend using the same cutters you use for baking, if you have some old ones lying around, they can come in handy for cutting out shapes. Plastic cutters from play-dough kits can also work, though you need to be sure to clean them between uses. They're also fairly easy to find for cheap at dollar stores, if you don't have any to spare!

9. Sewing Needles and Pins

   One more sharp tool! Great for adding detail, moving pieces around, holding pieces up, or using the round heads as a ball tool. These are fairly easy (and affordable) to find at most stores, if you don't have any spares lying around!

   
   

10. Toothbrushes

    Once again, please don't use the same one you would use to brush your teeth! These are decently cheap, easy to find, and extremely useful for adding texture and detail to your pieces.

    
    

    Thanks for reading my post!