A Pasta Machine For Clay By Alice Lane

Believe it or not, there is actually a pasta machine that is used strictly for clay. Although it might be obvious and quite common sense, no you cannot use the clay pasta machine for your food too. Working with a pasta machine is a lot of fun when you are dealing with clay. There are many different things that you can create.

A pasta machine for clay is exactly what you think it is. It really looks like a regular old pasta machine. The best type to buy is one that you power by a hand crank. The ones that are powered by a motor might not be strong enough to handle a polymer clay transfer. These machines also do precisely what you would expect them to; create long strips of flattened out clay. When it comes to working with this flattened clay, there are many different creations that you could make.

Rather than using a clay extruder to assist with your sculptures, now you can use a pasta machine instead. You can use it to flatten out your clay to make thin pieces to add to your artwork. If you are making a vase and want to add a three dimensional flower to the side, this is the way to go. Simply flatten your clay and cut out the shape of the flower that you want. Not only will the pasta machine save you the hassle of having to roll out your clay with a rolling pin, but it will also help save your sanity by creating clay that is the same thickness throughout.

One really fun thing that you could create using a pasta machine is a game board. If you flatten your clay and then cut the clay into inch wide strips you can put together a game board. Simply weave the clay strips over and under each other for a chess board. When you add some low fire glazes the finished result will be fantastic and unique!

Another fun way to use your pasta machine is to blend clay colors. Simply place one piece of clay over the other and run it through. This will blend the two colors beautifully and effortlessly. Keep running the clay through until the desired result has been reached. No matter how you decide to use your pasta machine, the choices are limitless. You will probably find that you use it more than your other clay tools!

If you are looking for a new and fun way to work with your clay, consider purchasing a clay pasta machine. AMACO has plenty of information regarding polymer clay transfer to get you started. Working with a clay extruder can be just as creative as well. Visit AMACO for information on that as well. When you have finished with your creation and are ready to add some low fire glazes, AMACO has a wide selection to choose from.