{"id":327,"date":"2008-09-05T18:25:45","date_gmt":"2008-09-06T01:25:45","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.beadsandbeading.com\/blog\/?p=327"},"modified":"2008-09-14T17:10:55","modified_gmt":"2008-09-15T00:10:55","slug":"beading-classes-prep-polymer-pasta-machine-sculpey-baking-oven","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.beadsandbeading.com\/blog\/beading-classes-prep-polymer-pasta-machine-sculpey-baking-oven\/327\/","title":{"rendered":"Beading Classes Prep | Polymer Pasta Machine | Sculpey Baking Oven"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"Polymer<\/p>\n

With Fall comes many new crafting and bead classes to choose from. Time to get prepared:
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\nQ: <\/strong><\/span>Hello, thank you for your site. I am about to start my first class in Polymer and I am puzzled. What is the best Pasta Machine to<\/span> use (I will be using an electric motor) and what is the best Convection oven to<\/span> use? I get so many different answers, I don’t know where to turn. Thank you for your help. ~Debbie McLelland<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

A: <\/strong><\/span>I know it can be very confusing to start out in any new hobby. Every expert has a different opinion on what is the right technique to use, or what tool is best suited for the job.<\/span><\/p>\n

In my opinion, the best tools to buy really depends on what you plan on doing with the medium.<\/span><\/p>\n

A good entry level polymer clay pasta machine for hobbyist and part time jewelry makers is made by Amaco. It’s got 6″ wide rollers, 7 settings and is costs between $20 and $30.<\/span><\/p>\n

I actually have an Amaco machine that is still going strong after several years of continual use. What can dramatically shorten their life and effectiveness is when hard clay is always being jammed through the rollers. This puts them out of alignment and can strip the gears.<\/span><\/p>\n

A lot of high production clayers use the Atlas machine. There are several models to choose from with optional attachments like cutters and motors. They come in 6″ and 7″ widths and are durable and well made in Italy. A 6″ model with no cutters runs about $70 and the motor is an additional $150.<\/span><\/p>\n

Another great product is the Makin’s Professional Ultimate Clay Machine. It has non-stick rollers and 9 thickness settings. The original Makin’s Machine had some issues, but they have now been resolved. <\/span>They sell for around $45 with an optional motor at $70. But <\/span>if you go this route, don’t buy a used one since it will probably be one of the original models. And also don’t buy a new one that’s been sitting on the shelf ‘forever’. <\/span><\/p>\n

On the subject of motors, they really are a luxury item for most people. Of course if you have strength issues with your wrists and hands, it may be a necessary item too. This choice is really up to you.<\/span><\/p>\n

As far as ovens for baking your clay, read these articles for more information:<\/span><\/p>\n