Using Your own Image for a Pendant

In the beginning, I started making picture pendants out of polymer clay and t-shirt transfers. Looking back on it, I should have used a lighter background and a better picture. I used Hewlett Packard’s transfer sheets, a Hewlett Packard four in one printer, and an iron. I did get a picture successfully inked onto the clay.

But the picture was a bit hard to see and I wasn’t sure what to do with it after I was finished. Now, I have a better process for using transfer sheets and polymer clay for picture pendants.

First, use white or very light polymer clay. All the brands of polymer clay I’ve used work with this same process, only the baking temperatures vary. Form the shape of the pendant you want. Then stick an eye pin in the top center part for a loop.

Second, make sure your picture is clear, bright, and has good contrast especially around the edges. You want the picture to be the same size as the clay pendant. In order to get it sized right, you can shrink or enlarge it on the four in one printer or a copier. When it is the right size, print it out on the transfer sheet. Cut out the picture leaving an edge around it. It is also good to leave a little “tab” sticking out to peel the transfer sheet off the clay.

Third, warm up your iron. This is a little tricky. You don’t want to exceed the baking temperature of the clay, but you need it hot enough to process the transfer sheet. I used a medium heat. Make sure you have good ventilation in the room and you follow all the safety precautions for using an iron.

Fourth, place the clay on a flat pan. Play the picture, ink side down, on the clay. Make sure the picture is centered. Then rest the iron on the top of the paper. I moved it around gently and slowly for about 44 - 50 seconds. Carefully peek at the clay by lifting the tab a bit. Judging by the quality of the picture transferred onto the clay, you can tell if you need to apply a bit more heat or if it is done.

Now bake the clay pendant in the oven according to the manufacturer’s directions. Let it cool. Pull the eye pin out and glue it in with super glue. I like to use Loctite’s Super Glue with Gel Control. It is easier to get where you want it. You can put a crystal, bead, and or bead cap on the eye pin before gluing it into the clay for extra bling.

For more protection, apply some Varathane varnish to the clay. Let dry between coats. I apply 2 or 3 coats for maximum shine.

Voila, a unique and beautiful picture pendant in the size and color you desire!