Can You Use Polymer Clay For A Soap Dish?

Polymer clay is a modeling and sculpting material made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC). It is a type of plastic that can be molded and shaped when raw. When baked in an oven, it undergoes a chemical reaction that permanently hardens it into a durable, lightweight finished product.

Unlike natural clays like pottery clay, polymer clay can be shaped again and again before baking. It also doesn’t dry out in the air. This reusable property makes it a versatile material for crafters and artists to work with.

When cured at the proper temperature, polymer clay is food-safe and dishwasher-safe. This opens up many possibilities for practical uses around the home in addition to decorative arts and crafts.

Properties of Polymer Clay

Polymer clay is an extremely versatile material with many desirable properties that make it well-suited for crafting decorative and functional items like a soap dish. Some key properties include:

Versatility – Polymer clay can be shaped, sculpted, molded, and formed into nearly any shape imaginable. It starts out malleable and soft, allowing easy shaping by hand or with tools. Then it hardens into a strong, durable finished product after baking. This versatility allows endless creative possibilities for handmade items.

Durability – Finished polymer clay items are very tough and durable. The baking process permanently hardens the clay so finished pieces will not deform. Items made from polymer clay can withstand regular use and last for years. The durable nature makes it suitable for functional pieces like a soap dish that will be handled frequently.

Flexibility – Polymer clay remains flexible and resilient even after hardening from baking. This flexibility prevents cracking or breaking under stress. Polymer clay can bend slightly without damage, making it a good choice for items like soap dishes that may need to flex when removed from molds or during use.

Advantages of Using Polymer Clay

Polymer clay offers several advantages that make it an ideal material for handcrafting a custom soap dish.

One of the biggest advantages is the creative freedom it provides. With polymer clay, you can sculpt and mold it into virtually any shape and design. This allows you to create a soap dish that perfectly matches your style, decor, or specific needs. You’re not limited to basic shapes and sizes like with a ceramic or glass dish. The possibilities are endless when working with polymer clay.

Related to that creative freedom is the ability to make completely unique pieces. Since you shape each piece by hand, no two polymer clay soap dishes will ever be exactly the same. This makes polymer clay perfect for creating one-of-a-kind, personalized soap dishes that reflect your personality.

Polymer clay is also highly customizable. You can mix colors together to achieve the exact hue you want. Shapes and textures can be molded, stamped, or carved into the clay. You can also embed various objects or embellishments into the clay for decorative interest. This high level of customizability allows you to design a soap dish that’s tailored to your taste.

Considerations for Making a Polymer Clay Soap Dish

When designing a soap dish, there are a few key factors to consider:

Hygiene: The soap dish needs to allow the soap to drain and dry properly between uses to prevent bacteria from accumulating. Choosing a smooth, non-porous clay and sealing it well will help.

Waterproofing: Since the soap dish will be holding wet soap, it needs to be waterproof so the clay doesn’t degrade. Polymer clay can be sealed but may need additional coatings.

Drainage: Small drainage holes will allow excess water to drain off rather than pooling under the soap. The design should allow airflow around the soap.

Decorative: Polymer clay’s versatility allows for endless decorative options. The dish can be sculpted into creative shapes, painted, orembedded with inclusions.

Weight: A heavier, sturdier base will keep the dish from tipping. Handles or a non-slip bottom can also help make it more functional.

With careful design considering these factors, a handcrafted polymer clay soap dish can be both beautiful and functional in a bathroom.

Making a Soap Dish with Polymer Clay

Making a soap dish out of polymer clay is a fun DIY project that allows you to customize the design. Here are the basic steps:

Tools Needed

You’ll need a work surface like a cutting board or acrylic sheet as well as some basic sculpting tools. Polymer clay sculpting tools like a blade, roller, dotting tool, and silicone brush are useful. You’ll also need an oven for baking.

Shaping

Condition your clay by kneading it before use. Roll out the clay to your desired thickness, at least 1/4 inch. Cut the clay into the shape you want for your soap dish, whether a basic rectangle or more ornate shape.

Use sculpting tools to add texture, ridges, or designs. Cutouts like circles or waves work well. You can also imprint the clay using objects like seashells. Build up edges or attach decorative elements as desired.

Baking

Follow the product instructions for baking time and temperature. Typical baking temperatures are around 130°C. Place the clay on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Allow to fully cool before handling after baking.

Glazing

Once cooled, you can sand any rough areas. Apply acrylic paints or liquid polymer clay as a glaze if desired. Buff the surface for sheen. Bake again briefly to set the glaze.

Decorating the Soap Dish

Once your soap dish form is complete, the fun part begins – decorating it! Polymer clay offers endless options for customizing the look of your soap dish. Here are some of the most popular techniques:

Stamps: Stamping is a quick and easy way to add pattern and texture. Polymer clay stamp sets come in endless designs, from florals and animals to geometric patterns. Press the stamp firmly into the clay, taking care not to distort the shape. For best results, roll an even layer of clay first before stamping.

Paint: Acrylic paints formulated for clay work well for hand-painting designs. Allow paint to fully dry before sealing. You can also use chalk pastels or oil pastels to add color. Work in thin layers and blend the pastel with a brush or cotton swab.

Mixtures: For more color variations, mix colors of clay together to create a marbled or mixed media look. You can also layer thin sheets of colored clays together and then slice through them to reveal the patterns.

Textures: Add visual interest by imprinting textures into the clay. You can press in fabric, lace, or other found objects. Use clay tools or household objects to scratch, stamp, or carve patterns.

Embellishments: Glue on rhinestones, beads, charms or other embellishments with a strong polymer clay adhesive. These details give your soap dish extra personality!

The possibilities are endless when decorating your handmade soap dish. Let your creativity run wild!

Sealing and Waterproofing

Sealing and waterproofing your polymer clay soap dish is an essential step to help protect it from damage. Since soap dishes are constantly exposed to water, sealing is important to prevent the clay from becoming soggy or deteriorating over time.

There are a few options for sealants that work well with polymer clay. Polyurethane is a popular choice because it fully seals the clay and creates a protective barrier. It comes in both gloss and matte finishes. Mod Podge is another good option that provides a waterproof seal. Some clayers also use epoxy resin to fully encapsulate the clay in a durable, plastic-like coating.

Apply the sealant in 2-3 thin, even coats allowing each coat to fully dry in between. Too much sealant or applying it too thickly can cause drips, bubbles, or an uneven surface. Properly sealing all surfaces and edges is crucial to prevent moisture from seeping in and damaging the clay over time.

A fully sealed polymer clay soap dish will be able to withstand regular use in the bathroom without any worries about damage from moisture. Just check it over occasionally for any cracks or weak spots in the sealant and reapply as needed. With proper sealing, a handmade clay soap dish can provide years of beautiful service.

Cleaning and Care

Polymer clay soap dishes are very easy to clean and care for. Here are some tips:

Handwashing is recommended. Use mild soap and warm water to gently clean the surface of the soap dish. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrubbing pads/brushes, as this can scratch and damage the clay.

After washing, pat dry with a soft cloth. Allow the soap dish to completely air dry before putting it back into use.

To keep the soap dish looking its best, avoid letting soap scum or residue build up. Rinse and handwash regularly.

You may wish to apply a food-safe sealant occasionally, which can help protect the clay and make cleaning easier. Use a sealant specifically made for polymer clay.

With proper care and cleaning, a handcrafted polymer clay soap dish can last for many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Advantages of Polymer Clay Over Other Materials

Polymer clay offers several advantages over other common materials used to make soap dishes, such as ceramic, plastic, and glass:

Durability: Polymer clay is very durable once baked, and does not easily chip, crack, or break like ceramic. It maintains its shape better than plastic over time.

Customization: Polymer clay can be molded into any shape and decorated in countless ways. It’s easy to create one-of-a-kind designs not possible with mass produced ceramic or plastic.

Lightweight: Items made from polymer clay are lightweight compared to ceramic and glass, making the soap dish easy to move around.

Grip: Baked polymer clay has a slightly porous texture that provides more grip than slippery glass or plastic, keeping the soap in place.

Waterproofing: Polymer clay can be sealed to make it waterproof, whereas ceramic is prone to absorbing water over time which can lead to damage.

Cost: Polymer clay is an affordable material for crafters. Pre-made ceramic and glass soap dishes can be much more expensive.

Conclusion

In summary, polymer clay is a versatile and practical material for handcrafting an attractive soap dish. With polymer clay, you can sculpt a dish in any shape and size to suit your needs. The clay can be molded, carved, textured, and decorated easily at home without specialized tools. Once baked, polymer clay produces a strong, durable soap dish that is water-resistant and can withstand daily use in the bathroom. Polymer clay soap dishes are lightweight and portable, making them perfect for travel. They are also less prone to breaking or chipping compared to ceramic materials. With proper sealing, a polymer clay soap dish can be made completely waterproof. The ability to create one-of-a-kind designs affordably makes polymer clay an ideal choice for soap dishes and other bathroom accessories. With its practical properties and creative possibilities, polymer clay is a great material for handcrafting a customized soap dish that is both functional and beautiful.