Water Transfer Paper Sheets for Polymer Clay Charms, Earrings, and Necklaces | Ocean, Beach, Forest, Birds, Desert, Cottage, Farm & More

The design elements in these water transfers are licensed for use. While they are not my original artwork, I’m thrilled to make them available so you can use them in your own creative projects. ❤️

looking for custom transfers? Visit this listing: https://www.etsy.com/listing/4400212994/custom-water-transfer-paper-sheets-for

Tutorial video: https://youtube.com/shorts/eqryND-gVoI?si=Qyg9_y0ggp2KhKk3

Features: Approximately 5.5" x 4.25" (actual designs will be slightly smaller due to print margins), biodegradable, eco-friendly, certified flushable, and aquatic-friendly, fast-dissolving.

Instructions for Use:

1. For best results, use Sculpey Premo white clay or a similar clay with a smooth finish. I personally love mixing equal parts Sculpey Premo and Soufflé, which creates a soft, workable texture that holds ink well. Prepare your clay slab on a small tile.

2. Place the sheet color-side down on your prepared clay slab. For charms, cut out the images and position them on the unbaked clay, color-side down, leaving enough space for your cutters.

3. Use your fingers or an acrylic roller to press the images firmly onto the clay, ensuring full contact. Take your time with this step—pressing thoroughly is key for a complete transfer. If the image isn’t transferring fully, apply more pressure.

4. Mist the sheet with water until it is fully saturated, then let it sit for a few minutes. Gently dab away excess water from the edges of your clay slab. The paper should look nearly dissolved, with the edges fading from view.

5. Move the clay to your sink and rinse it under a gentle stream of room-temperature water until all paper fibers are removed. While rinsing, use your finger to softly loosen any remaining fibers from the clay surface.

6. Pat the clay dry with paper towels—do not rub. Simply lay the towels on top and press gently to soak up moisture. For faster drying, use a fan if needed.

7. Lightly dust your clay slab with cornstarch using a soft brush to prevent smearing or bleeding before baking. Cornstarch also reduces fingerprints and keeps cutters from sticking. If the clay feels sticky while cutting, add a bit more cornstarch.

8. Once your clay is baked, use a pointed Q-tip dipped in acetone to gently remove any smears or residue.

Additional Tips:

- You can use rubbing alcohol and a Q-tip to remove parts of the image transfer before baking. Be aware that some ink colors may be more difficult to remove, both before and after baking.

- Work in small batches. If you create too many pieces at once, the clay may stay wet for too long, leading to bleeding or other issues. For clean cuts, always use sharp cutters.

- If paper remains after baking, seal your piece with UV resin to conceal any remaining texture. Alternatively, applying several coats of varnish can further smooth the surface. You may also try misting the area with water and gently rubbing away fibers, or use rubbing alcohol, but this may cause image fading, so try to remove as much paper as possible during rinsing.

Varnishing:

- For long-term durability, seal your piece. Water-based polyurethane is a good option—apply thin coats, allowing 3-4 hours of drying time between layers to prevent an "orange peel" texture.

- UV resin cures quickly and creates a glossy, domed finish, though it can yellow over time. Always use proper safety gear and let the surface cure completely before handling.

Need more help? Check out my two-part tutorial:
Part 1: Clay Prep for Water Transfers: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DNWKCFZRtC3/
Part 2: Applying Water Transfers: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DNWcdgNB_v-/