Materials

Friendly Plastic® – Metallic Solid Red, Metallic Solid Copper, and Metallic Solid Gold
AMACO® Non-Stick Work Mat
AMACO® PolyCutters™ – set 70897D
AMACO® Needle Tool
Lisa Pavelka Embossing Rose Leaf Cutter Set
Circle Cutters – ½” and 1”
Gold Jump Rings – 16 (6mm)
Gold Jump Rings – 4 (10mm)
1 Pair Gold Ear Wires 
Olive Oil
Cosmetic Sponge
Metal Kabob Skewer or thin gauge knitting needle
Scissors 
Jewelry pliers (round nose, chain nose, and wire cutters)
Neck chain with links

Optional: CRYSTALLIZED -Swarovski Elements (Crystal Column bead and 3mm, 4mm, and 5mm bicone beads used), small gold spacer beads, small gold spacer discs, gold head or paddle pins, Drill

Necklace

Step 1
Pour a small amount of olive oil onto the cosmetic sponge. Rub the sponge on the leaf cutters with the plunger depressed to prevent them from sticking to the warmed Friendly Plastic®. Soften Friendly Plastic® in hot water (140F-150°F, 50-60°C). Use care immediately after removing the plastic from the water as it can be hot. It cools very rapidly, so it’s best to work quickly. 

Step 2
Press the cutters down over the plastic with firm pressure around the outer collar to cut the leaf shape first. Then, holding the cutter in place, press the plunger down firmly into the plastic to emboss the vein leaves. Clean and re-grease the cutters after each use. Tip: use scissors to clean up any uneven edges after the plastic cools. 

Step 3
For the necklace, pierce a hole in the top and bottom of each leaf about 1/8″ in from the edge in the center. The holes can be enlarged after the plastic hardens using a drill. Attach to a chain in the order shown in the middle link of your preferred neck chain using a jump ring. Space the leaves to allow room between each one for hanging the twisted spikes made in Step 4. Attach the three medium and single small leaves as shown, using jump rings. Tip: to open and close the jump rings properly, twist the ends away from one another using the round and chain nose pliers. Do not pull the ends apart as this distort the jump ring’s shape, weaken it and make it difficult to close with a tight connection. 

Cut out the following number of leaves in the sizes and colors indicated to make the necklace as shown:

1 Large Red Leaf
2 Large Copper Leaves
2 Large Gold Leaves
1 Medium Copper Leaf
2 Medium Gold Leaves
1 Small Gold Leaf

Step 4
To make the six spiral spikes that are hung between each leaf cascade, cut six long strips of both red and gold Friendly Plastic®, 1/8″ wide. These can all be the same length or you can cut them in graduated sizes as desired. Warm one strip of red plastic in water and press to the back of the same-sized gold plastic while still warm to create a dual sided strip of gold and red colors. Repeat this with all remaining strips. Working with one strip at-a-time, re-soften the combined plastic and twist by hand. Slightly flatten one end between your finger tips and pierce with the needle tool. Hand in between each of the five, large leaves. 

Step 5
To create the five spiral springs, cut out 1/8″ wide by 1.5″ long strips of Friendly Plastic® as follows: 2 – Red, 2 – Gold, 1 – Copper. Warm one strip at a time and wrap around a greased skewer or knitting needle, leaving evenly spaced gaps between each rotation. Dip in cold water and slide of the skewer/needle. Warm one end in hot water and gently fold down over to form a hang-loop at one end. Trim to the desired length and attach through the jump ring holding the largest five leaves to the neck chain.   

Step 6
For the toggle closure, soften a 1″ x 1′” piece of red Friendly Plastic® in hot water. You can press a greased texture mat into the plastic if desired before cutting out with a large circle cutter. Use a small (1/2″) circle cutter to punch out the center of the red circle, re-warming the plastic if needed. For the toggle bar, cut a 1/4″ wide strip of gold plastic to a length matching or slightly longer than the outer diameter of the toggle opening. Soften in water and fold in half, lengthwise. Cut a tiny strip of gold plastic, warm and fold over a jump ring to securely attach it to the toggle bar. Connect the toggle bar to the neck chain end using one small, followed by one large gold jump ring.  Attach the toggle to the other end of the neck chain using the other large jump ring. 

Step 7 (Optional)
Embellish the necklace with dangling crystal accents handing from just a few or all the leaves as shown, suspending the bicone components on head/paddle pins and a crystal column with a jump ring. Cut the excess wire at the end of the pin to leave 3/8″ length. Bend at 90° angle and roll into a hanging loop at the end of each dangle. Be creative and create whatever assortment of dangle colors and sizes you find pleasing for a kinetic creating that gracefully swings and sways as you move.  

Earrings

Step 1
Following the directions for the necklace, heat Friendly Plastic® and punch out two sets of graduated size leaves with the embossing cutters as follows: 2 Large Copper, 2 Medium Gold, 2 Small Red. 

Step 2
Use the greased needle tool to pierce a hole in the top and bottom of the largest leaf as instructed in Step 3 in the necklace instructions. Re-warm the plastic if necessary. Pierce holes only in the top of the medium and small leaves. 

Step 3
Attach the leaves (directly on the ear wires depending on the direction of the attachment loop, with a large – 10mm jump ring) so that they overlap from smallest to largest in a free-swinging fashion. Optional: A gold spacer disc can be placed on the jump ring over the smallest leaf to embellish the drilled holes and add a dangle made of crystal components at bottom of the large Copper leaves.

Techniques by Jana Ewy & Friends

Bead Making: With AMACO Bead Rollers

Technique courtesy of designer Myléne Hillman

Completed Friendly Plastic bead necklace made by Mylene Hillam.

Cut a strip of Friendly Plastic® to size. Heat and soften the plastic foil side down, on a non-stick surface, using a heat tool or hot water bath. Begin rolling from one end into a cylinder. Squash the ends between thumb and forefinger to create a cube. Roll into a ball in the palm of your hand. Place the ball into the base of a lightly oiled bead roller. Place the lid on top. Using gentle pressure, roll the top back and forth until the bead is formed. Using a bead pin or needle tool, pierce a hole through the bead. Cool the bead completely in cold water. See AMACO’s
Craft Library for a variety of projects using this technique.

• To help prevent any distortion of the bead, place it in a dish of ice-cold water for a second or two to harden the outer shell before piercing. The center is still soft and can be easily pierced using a needle tool.

• If preferred, you can drill a hole using a very fine drill bit after the bead has hardened.

Projects:

Bead Making by Myléne Hillman

Blending

Technique courtesy of designer Jana Ewy

Blending like marbling is simply the intermingling of softened colors. Select several different colors of Friendly Plastic®. Heat and soften the plastic, on a non-stick surface, using any heating method (dry heat or wet heat). Using a needle tool, begin pulling the colors one into the other, creating either a precise or random design. Once you have achieved your desired design, allow the plastic to cool completely. See AMACO’s Friendly Plastic Craft Library for a variety of projects using this technique.

Projects:

Pinwheel Jewelry Plant Stake by Jana Ewy

Valentine Card by Michelle Zimmerman

Cylinders

Technique courtesy of designer Jana Ewy

Heat and soften strips of Friendly Plastic® on a non-stick baking sheet, using a griddle or oven (dry heat). Once all the strips have softened and fused together, remove the pan from the heat and allow the plastic to cool completely. Place the cooled plastic back on the cutting mat and cut the plastic into a 1” wide strip. Place the 1” strip on a silicone sheet, foil side down, and re-soften, on the griddle or in the oven. As soon as the entire strip is shiny, remove the silicone sheet from the heat and lay it onto your counter or work surface. Carefully lay the rubber tubing along the top edge of the softened plastic strip. Moisten your fingers and hands with water, to prevent sticking to the plastic, and begin to roll it up and around the tubing. Continue until all of the plastic is wrapped around the tubing. Now you can use your fingers and palms of your hands to roll the cylinder back and forth on the silicone sheet, to secure and seal the overlap. Allow the plastic to cool completely. Remove the tubing from the plastic. Cut into desired size beads. See AMACO’s Friendly Plastic Craft Library for a variety of projects using this technique.

Projects:

Blooming Cylinder by Jana Ewy.

Brightly Colored Bangles by Jana Ewy.

Eclectic Elements by Jana Ewy.

Fracture and Fusion

Technique courtesy of designer Jana Ewy

Cut (fracture) Friendly Plastic® into strips. Soften and fuse the strips of plastic together on a little gold pan, using the griddle. Remove the pan from the griddle and allow the plastic to cool completely. Remove the fused plastic from the pan and cut (fracture) it into strips. Turn every other strip, the opposite direction creating a mosaic type patter. Place the strips back in the pan and re-soften to fuse these strips of plastic together. Once the fusion is complete, remove the pan from the griddle.

Allow the plastic to cool completely or use shaped cutters to cut out a variety of shapes while the plastic is still soft. See AMACO’s Friendly Plastic Craft Library for a variety of projects using this technique.

Projects:

Butterfly necklace by Jana Ewy.

Cuff bracelet by Jana Ewy.

Dragonfly pendant necklaces by Jana Ewy.

Filigree bookmark by Jana Ewy.

Freeform

Technique information courtesy of designer Jana Ewy

Heat and soften Friendly Plastic®, using the hot water method. Working on a non-stick surface, just like the name implies, use your hands to free form the softened plastic into the design of your choice. Several layers and colors can be worked into the design. There is no right or wrong way to manipulate the plastic in a free form design. See AMACO’s Friendly Plastic Craft Library for a variety of projects using this technique.

• You can use a variety of items or objects to be included into these designs.

Projects:

Contemporary Pin by Rosemary Stevenson.

Uptown Ladies by Lisa Galvin.

Paradise Bird Pin by Jane Colbert.

Fusion

Technique information courtesy of designer Jana Ewy

Friendly Plastic® to Friendly Plastic® fusion is accomplished by softening Friendly Plastic® on a non-stick surface, using any of the heating methods (dry heat or wet heat). By simply touching the softened plastic to another piece of plastic, will create a bond or fusion. No matter if it is hard plastic or another piece of softened plastic, the two pieces, by the nature of the product, will fuse/stick together. See AMACO’s Friendly Plastic Craft Library for a variety of projects using this technique.

Projects:

Butterfly Headband and Ring by Linda Hess.	Christmas Card by Sian Cheetham.	Fantasy Dragon by Natalie Young.	Fallen Apples scrapbook page by Caryn Gehm.
Noah's Ark by Kathy Palmer.	Out of Asia by Linda Peterson.	Copper Kimono by Linda Peterson.

Impressions

Technique courtesy of designer Liz Welch

Heat and soften Friendly Plastic® on heavy weight aluminum foil or a Teflon sheet using hot water. With the water acting as a lubricant (release agent), press the chosen object or objects, down firmly into the plastic and then remove. Keep in mind, that you can use a variety of objects to make an impression in the same piece of plastic, creating an unusual and one of a kind texture, instead of a single reproduction. See AMACO’s Friendly Plastic Craft Library for a variety of projects using this technique.

• With this technique, you can use a wide range of items to impress with; stamps, thick lace, found objects, feathers, leaves, buttons, beads, miscellaneous household objects all work well.

• If you think there is a possibility that an item might stick, dip it in cold water or rub a tiny amount of cooking oil onto the surface of the object before stamping. Work quickly to avoid any sticking problem.

• Use AMACO® Rub ‘n Buff® to highlight the design and dimension of the finished piece.

• Apply a wash of acrylic paint over the finished piece, rub off the excess and when dry, then add Rub ‘n Buff® highlights. The paint turns the shiny Friendly Plastic® into something that looks more like porcelain.

Projects:

Impress Me by Liz Welch.

Inked Impressions

Technique courtesy of designer Liz Welch

Blue Valentine ink stamped Friendly Plastic.

Heat and soften Friendly Plastic® on desired non-stick surface, using a griddle, heat tool or oven (dry heat). Apply ink to a rubber stamp or other suitable object to create an impression in the plastic. Press the stamp down firmly into the plastic and leave until the plastic has cooled completely. Peel off the stamp. This method gives you the exact impression of the stamped image.

Inlay: Friendly Plastic® into Friendly Plastic®

Technique courtesy of designer Jana Ewy

Heat and soften Friendly Plastic® on a non-stick surface, using a griddle or oven (dry heat). Arrange and carefully place the chosen pieces of hard plastic onto the softened plastic. Allow the hard pieces to soften and inlay into the base plastic. The longer they are left on the heat the more complete the inlay will become. If a more dimensional effect is desired, you will want to remove the plastic from the heat, once the desired effect is achieved. See AMACO’s Friendly Plastic Craft Library for a variety of projects using this technique.

Projects:

Contemporary Faux Glass Choker by Linda Peterson.

Magnetic Gift Set by Jana Ewy.

Inlaying Objects

Technique courtesy of designer Liz Welch

Heat and soften Friendly Plastic® using a griddle, heat tool or oven (dry heat). Position and press the chosen items onto the softened plastic. Be sure to press the items in deep enough to insure a permanent setting. You may want to drag tiny amounts of the surrounding plastic over the edges of the items for additional security. If neither of these is an option, you can wait until the plastic has cooled completely, remove the item, add a spot of glue and adhere the item back in place. See AMACO’s Friendly Plastic Craft Library for a variety of projects using this technique.

• With this technique you can use a wide range of items; Buttons, sequins, beads, trinkets, charms, feathers, wire, washers, found objects, micro beads, glitter, fabric (small pieces), yarns and threads, punched paper shapes and small scraps or cut-outs of Friendly Plastic®.

Projects:

ATC Card By Sian Cheetham.

Marbling

Technique courtesy of designer Jana Ewy

Heat and soften strips of Friendly Plastic® on a non-stick baking sheet, using a griddle or oven (dry heat). Once all the strips have softened and fused together, place the teeth of the marbling comb against the baking sheet and draw the comb towards you in a wavy “S” pattern cutting through the plastic.

NOTE: It is very important that you keep the teeth of the comb against the pan while cutting through the plastic.

Next, place the teeth of the marbling comb in between the lines you just cut. Now push the comb away following the same wavy pattern, bisecting the previous pass. Allow the cut lines to seal back together. Remove the pan from the griddle. Allow the plastic to cool completely or while the plastic is still warm, use shaped cutters to cut out shapes. See AMACO’s Friendly Plastic Craft Library for a variety of projects using this technique.

Projects:

A Simple Tree of Hope and Peace pendant by Jana Ewy.	Flying Heart Brooch by Jana Ewy.	Autumn Fires pendant by Jana Ewy.
Magnificent Marbled Pendant by Jana Ewy.	Marbled Button by Liz Welch.	Frame with Marbling by Michelle Zimmerman.

Molds: Using Commercial Silicone Molds

Techniques courtesy of designer Myléne Hillman

Method 1

Lay the mold on a heat resistant surface facing upward. Cut a square of Friendly Plastic® a little larger all the way around than the cavity of the mold. Use either a heat tool or the water bath method to soften the plastic. Place the plastic foil side down over the cavity. With wet fingers, gently work the Friendly Plastic® into all the nooks and crannies of the mold. Allow the plastic to cool completely or drop it into cold water for 20-30 seconds. The plastic will pop out of the mold, easily. The back can be packed with softened scraps if a flat back is required for attaching to your artwork. Trim away the excess if preferred.

Method 2

Cut small slivers of Friendly Plastic® and place them into the mold one by one using the heat tool to soften before adding further pieces. Use wet fingers to mold each additional piece into the softened Friendly Plastic®. Continue adding layers, working the Friendly Plastic® into all the recesses of the mold until the cavity is full. See AMACO’s Friendly Plastic Craft Library for a variety of projects using this technique.

NOTE: Krafty Lady has a large selection of Art Molds to choose from.

Projects:

Using molds by Michelle Zimmerman.

Oooze!

Technique courtesy of designer Liz Welch

Just like the name implies, this technique explains how to get softened Friendly Plastic® to ooze through the holes in any sturdy mesh like material.

Heat and soften Friendly Plastic® on heavy weight aluminum foil, using a griddle, heat tool or oven (dry heat). Position and place the mesh material over the softened plastic (make sure that it is larger than the piece of Friendly Plastic®). Pick up the foil, while holding the mesh securely in place over the plastic; use your fingers from underneath the foil to press up against the softened plastic, forcing it to ooze up through the holes in the mesh material. Allow the plastic to cool and then cut into shape. See AMACO’s Friendly Plastic Craft Library for a variety of projects using this technique.

• Anything sturdy with holes in it that resembles mesh, is a candidate for the ooze technique;
WireForm® Metal Mesh, Netting, Punchinella, sequin waste, Laser Mesh, metal mesh, fancy lace, punched paper, thin metal, fabric with holes in, Angelina fibers, etc.

• This technique can be enhanced using metal sugar craft cutters.

• The mesh material will stay in the Friendly Plastic® forever.

• Depending on the material, be careful not to heat Friendly Plastic® with the material in place, it might destroy or distort the material (Sequin Waste and Angelina fibers are particularly susceptible to the heat of a heat gun).

Projects:

Fire and Ice jewelry ensemble by Liz Welch.

Ooozey Does It Earrings by Liz Welch.

Splash

Technique courtesy of designer Jana Ewy

Place a stick of white Friendly Plastic® on a protected work surface. Apply a wash of alcohol blending fluid over the plastic stick. In a random pattern apply drops of alcohol ink in one or two colors as your background colors. Allow the colors to blend together. Use a paintbrush to fill in any white areas. Dip a paintbrush into rubbing alcohol and touch the plastic where you want to create white circles (puddles). Choose a coordinating color of ink and dilute slightly with rubbing alcohol. Splash the ink across the surface of the plastic. Repeat this with as many colors of ink as you like. Allow the finished design to dry completely. See AMACO’s Friendly Plastic Craft Library for a variety of projects using this technique.

Projects:

Greeting Cards by Jana Ewy.

Lucky You by Jana Ewy.

All Rights reserved. No part of this document may be reproduced in any form or by any electronic or mechanical means including information storage and retrieval systems without permission in writing from the author and American Art Clay Co., Inc.

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Getting to know

by Jana Ewy

For most of us, it is the physical attraction to the vibrant metallic colors that draws us in for a closer look. Then comes the excitement of design possibilities, followed by the resistance to try something new. But with “Friendly” as part of its name, how can we say no!?

Friendly Plastic® is a durable nontoxic plastic that once heated becomes a soft pliable medium which can be blended and manipulated into beautiful two-dimensional or free-form designs. Friendly Plastic® cools and becomes hard in just a few minutes. Use it to create exciting and innovative accessories, home décor, jewelry, and wearable art.

Friendly Plastic® can be recycled, repurposed and reused by reheating.

The Basics

As with all art and craft mediums there is a bit of a learning curve when it comes to working with Friendly Plastic®, not everyone enjoys immediate success. Once you have a basic understanding of the heating methods and of the pliable nature of softened Friendly Plastic®, you will find that proficiency is soon to follow.

You will learn about the heating methods used to work with Friendly Plastic®, the various tools and materials, design techniques, finishes, and adhesives. A Bible of ever growing tips and tricks.

Purchasing, Storing and Reconditioning

Close-up of fanned Friendly Plastic Metallic Sticks.

Friendly Plastic® has a shelf life if not properly stored. Exactly what that shelf life is, is unknown, with so many determining factors to be considered. The main points of this section is to help you purchase fresh Friendly Plastic®, suggest a few storing options, and share a little trick for reconditioning old Friendly Plastic®.

WARNING: With the renewed interest in Friendly Plastic®, a lot of old product is re-surfacing like buried treasure and being put up for auction. Buyers Beware!

Purchasing – When purchasing Friendly Plastic®, you want to make sure the plastic is fresh. You do this by giving it the flex-test, simply give the stick a little bend, it should flex quite easily and then straighten back out. If it snaps in half, you guessed it… it’s a SNAPPER (old plastic). This is where ordering on-line can be a problem. My suggestion is to make sure you are ordering from a reputable dealer. Try to resist de-stash bargains and auctions. You want a guarantee that the plastic is fresh, be sure the dealer offers this.

Storing – Keep your plastic in a closed container or zip-lock bag, when not in use. This seems to be the trick to longevity.

Reconditioning – If you have SNAPPERS (old plastic), all is not lost. Old Friendly Plastic® can be reconditioned. Here is how: Place the sticks on a nonstick pan and either place the pan onto a griddle or into an oven, temperature set at 200°F (a heat tool will not work). Allow the plastic sticks to soften completely. Remove the pan from the heat and allow the sticks to cool completely on their own. DO NOT run them under cold water. Once they have cooled, remove them from the pan and check the flexibility. Hopefully this has done the trick. It is not fool proof, but it does work most of the time.

Bead Making Tools

Making Friendly Plastic® beads can be quite a feat, as there is a bit of a learning curve to this process. I have to admit, I have not yet mastered them all. For more information and project ideas; see Bead Making Techniques.

Bead Rollers – Bead rollers, intended for use with polymer clay work nicely with Friendly Plastic® as well. You can form perfectly shaped and uniform beads, in a variety of shapes and sizes.

Your Hands – These are my preferred tools when it comes to making beads and free form designs. You don’t always get perfection, but the process is very organic. Just like when we were kids.

• Dip your hands in water before handling the plastic so it doesn’t stick to you.

• If you wear polish or acrylic nails, you may want to apply a light coat of oil to your hands as well.

Blending and Marbling Tools

Blending and intermingling the colors of Friendly Plastic® gives such a dramatic, yet harmonious movement to your designs. It is also a thrilling process to watch. For more information and project ideas; see Blending and Marbling Techniques.

Needle tool – Needle tools of all sizes are perfect for pulling and blending the colors of softened plastic into beautiful feathered and freeform designs. The smaller the needle, like those used for beading, the more intricate the design. Try using different sizes to create swirl and spiral patterns in the plastic. See Blending Techniques for more information.

Marbling Comb – The marbling comb, with its evenly spaced needles (teeth) was designed so traditional marbling patterns could be re-created using strips of Friendly Plastic®. Using the marbling comb is a much better option than a single needle tool, when it comes to blending the softened plastic into more uniform free flowing designs. See Marbling Techniques for more information.

• Even pronged hair picks make a unique marbling tool to try.

Cutting Tools

Scissors – Scissors are used most frequently to cut Friendly Plastic®, but because of the thickness of the plastic I would recommend finding a pair that is easy on the hands, like those from Fiskars, with a spring loaded handle. Tim Holtz scissors by Tonic is another recommendation.

Cutting Mat, Ruler and Utility Knife – A cutting mat, thick acrylic ruler, and a mat knife or utility knife are great when making straight cuts or when you are cutting uniform strips of different widths. It is important to use a strong rigid blade for this type of cutting. The thin blade of a craft knife is not recommended.

Die Cutting Tools – Die cutting machines and dies are also a wonderful way to cut the plastic into fun and unusual shapes.

• Ellison “originals” or “thick cut” dies will cut through cold plastic sticks.

• Spellbinders dies will give you a lovely deep line that you can then cut out by hand with scissors.

• The Accucut die cutters can cut through cold Friendly Plastic® sticks.

• If you don’t have your own die cutting tools, try your local scrapbook store.

Shaped Cutters – Used on softened Friendly Plastic®, shape cutters are a must-have, when it comes to cutting out uniform shapes in a hurry. They come in many shapes and sizes, and from several different manufactures. Most are made of metal, while some are made of plastic. All work in the same manner, being pressed into the softened plastic, although there are a few tricks to keep in mind.

• Keep the cutters in a dish of ice water with a few drops of oil added for lubrication.

• If you are using plastic cutters, it is best to spray them with an acrylic sealer before using. This gives them a protective barrier against sticking (plastic to plastic may cause some problems).

Craft knife – As you know a craft knife is useful in so many ways, When working with Friendly Plastic®, I use mine most often for cutting around shapes made with my cutters that don’t pop out on their own.

Easy Cutters – Easy cutters by Midwest Products is a wonderful tool to add to your toolbox. They come in different sizes and were developed for cutting balsa wood. I have found them to be very useful for making perfect cuts through my rolled cylinders. They come with measured markings to make perfect angle cuts if you need them. Find them in your local Hobby store.

Glues and Adhesives

This is a topic brought up quite often. First you need to determine, what your finished Friendly Plastic® design is being used for. This is a major factor in determining what type of glue is needed. Of course we can’t leave out personal preference.

Craft Glue – For paper crafting, if you are just adding a Friendly Plastic® embellishment, white glue which is designed to adhere plastic will work fine.

Double-sided Tape – Double-sided tape (my choice) is also great for paper crafting and many other applications.

E-6000 – Is great for use with almost all of your Friendly Plastic® projects. For jewelry, you will want to use a silicone-based glue, like E-6000 (my choice) or Goop. The thick consistency makes it easy to pick up small amounts on the end of a needle tool for precise placement. It is self-leveling and will not rust metal components which are being used along with your plastic.

Epoxy – A two-part epoxy is also a good choice when working with small jewelry components. It is fast drying and won’t rust metal components.

Jewelry Cements – There are also several jewelry cements available that are worth a try. You really have to find what works best for you.

Heating Methods

Each method of heating and softening Friendly Plastic® has its own unique properties and effects the plastic in different ways. It is important to try them all so you have an understanding of these effects and know which method is right for the technique you have chosen. This is a bit of a trial and error game.

Electrical appliances may differ from one manufacturer to another. Your altitude and your geographic location (country of residence) are also factors to consider. The temperatures given are just a guideline, you may need to make some adjustments.

Griddle – The griddle method of heating and softening Friendly Plastic® is my favorite and is the one I use the most. This method provides you with an open work time. You can continue working with the softened plastic until your desired design is achieved. Once your design is complete, simply remove the baking sheet from the griddle and allow the plastic to cool. Another important aspect to this method, the plastic is being heated from bottom to top, leaving the metallic finish virtually unchanged. With the temperature set at a low 200°F to 250°F, a non-stick baking sheet (pan or silicone mat) is placed onto the griddle and the plastic is then placed onto the baking sheet to soften.

• Griddles can be found in many sizes. Extra large (8 pancake), standard (6 pancake) and the Liddle Griddle by Presto (4 pancake), which is perfect for the studio.

• Try a test piece of plastic on your griddle, if it begins to form bubbles the temperature is too high and you need to turn it down a bit.

• The temperature may even need to be adjusted, depending on the work surface you are using (pan or silicone mat) and your chosen technique.

• At a higher altitude, you may want to set your griddle at 180° to keep the air bubbles out.

Heat Gun – The heat gun is a great tool to use on small projects and for finishing techniques. As with the griddle method, the plastic needs to be placed on a heat resistant non-stick surface before heating. It is very important to keep in mind, the strong concentration of heat and air flow being applied from above can cause the plastic to move around, become sticky, and may cause the metallic finish to crackle. Take care and be cautious as you master this heating method.

Hot Water Bath – The method of heating and softening the plastic in hot water was the main stay several years ago. It is one of the primary methods still being used in the UK and Australia. It is quickly becoming popular again here in the US with the re-introduction of the Friendly Plastic® pellets. The ability to control the temperature of the water to just under a simmer (140°-150°F) in an electric skillet or wok, allows you to soften the plastic into a malleable state that can then be manipulated by hand into free-form designs.

Oven – The oven method for heating and softening the plastic, like the hot water, has been an option since the introduction of Friendly Plastic®. With the oven set at 250°F to 300°F, the plastic is placed onto a non-stick baking sheet and then placed into the oven to soften. It was the drawbacks to this method (in and out of the oven, trying to work as quickly as possible) that sparked the pursuit for a better way. From that pursuit came the griddle method. But don’t leave the oven out as one of your heating options. If you don’t have a griddle to use, this is my recommendation to achieve the same type of effects.

• The AMACO® Craft Oven is perfect for use in your studio.

Melting Pot – a melting pot with a lid can also be used in place of a griddle for very small projects / pieces. Set the temperature to 180°F, put the plastic on a non-stick craft sheet, and put the lid on.

Lubricants and Release Agents

Softened Friendly Plastic® can make for a sticky situation. Using a lubricant or release agent on your hands and tools may be necessary. Here are a few to try. Cooking oil, baby oil, Vaseline, badger balm, clear embossing ink all works well on rubber stamps and rubber texture sheets or mats. You may also want to try some of the misting release agents on the market for use with polymer clay and silver metal clay.

Piercing and Drilling Tools

Needle Tool – When you make Friendly Plastic® beads you can use a needle tool to pierce the hole through the bead while the plastic is still soft. You can also use them to pierce holes for jump rings.

Hole Punch – A 1/16” hole punch will punch through Friendly Plastic® quite easily. You do have to put a little muscle behind it, but the result of that perfect little hole is worth it.

Drill – A drill is a must have when you need to make a hole through your plastic pieces that have been coated with Envirotex. Also, drilling the holes through beads after the plastic has hardened means your beads are less likely to become distorted. Any type of drill fitted with the right size drill bit will work fine. Holding your piece or bead secure is very important while drilling. A Dremel tool is very handy for this process. And if you are planning on drilling a lot of holes, you may want to look into getting a drill press. It is important to keep in mind that centrifugal force creates heat, and heat melts the plastic, so if you have a variable speed drill, try using a low speed.

Sanding Tools

Fingernail Files – Fingernail files are great for rounding off sharp edges. Use them for sanding or buffing out rough spots, like the ones you get when you accidentally stick your finger in the softened plastic.

• Buffing blocks and sand paper work in the same way.

Sealers and Protective Coatings

Acrylic Sealers – Water based acrylic sealers add a nice light coat of protection to your finished pieces. Painted on or sprayed on, it comes in different finishes such as gloss, satin or matte. Several coats can be applied to achieve your desired finish.

EnviroTex Lite – Envirotex Lite is a two-part epoxy resin and polyamine hardener that can be painted on or poured on. It gives a high gloss finish that is heat resistant and down right glorious. It is my favorite sealer. If you are looking for the depth and dimension of glass, this is the sealer for that type of finish. There is a bit of a learning curve to using this product and it also has a 24-hour cure time.

Casting Resin – Like Envoritex Lite, this is a two-part mixture that can be applied with a brush or poured on. The high gloss finish gives the depth and dimension like that of glass. It also gives your finished piece protection and durability.  It also has a bit of a learning curve to the application process, and has a 24-hour cure time. But it is well worth your learning efforts.

Polyurethane – Polyurethane is a thermoplastic polymer that can be painted or sprayed on. Like the acrylic sealers, it comes in different finishes (gloss, satin, matte) and adds a nice protection to your finished pieces from normal wear and tear.

Texture and Impression Tools

Softened Friendly Plastic® accepts textures and impressions very nicely, and it is an easy way to create very interesting surface effects. (For more information and project ideas; see Impression and Mold techniques).

Rubber Stamps – Being one of the most popular and easiest to use, rubber stamps can be found in any number of sizes and designs and are a perfect way to make an impression or add texture to Friendly Plastic®.

• Apply a release agent to your stamp before pressing it into the plastic. It can be anything… water, inks, release agents, Vaseline, badger balm. Your choice depending on your project.

• If using the griddle method to soften the plastic, be sure to remove the plastic from the heat before stamping.

• The stamp must be left in the plastic until it has hardened before removing.

Rubber Texture Sheets – Rubber texture sheets are nothing more than un-mounted rubber stamps, and for the most part were created for use with polymer clay and metal clay. The patterns are more of a motif (repeated design), rather than a single image or vignette. Some have smaller patterns, making them more suitable for jewelry, while others have larger motifs, perfect for paper crafting, home decor and other accessories. Much like rubber stamps, they can be found in several designs styles and are used in the same manner.

• See Rubber Stamps as the same tips apply to texture sheets.

Plastic Texture Plates – The clear plastic texture plates designed for use in a pasta machine, with clay or ArtEmboss® soft embossing metal, can also be used with Friendly Plastic. I do have to CAUTION you, if you choose to use these plastic texture sheets, because plastic to plastic may cause a sticky situation. NOT one of my recommendations.

• These plates are better used with plastic that has been softened in a hot water bath.

• A release agent must be applied to the plates.

Manufactured Molds – The flexible manufactured molds used with polymer clay also work well with Friendly Plastic®. Softened Friendly Plastic® can be pressed into molds, recreating an image of the original design. This is also a great way to use small scraps of Friendly Plastic® you have been saving. The depth of the mold and the intricacy of the design, will determine which heating method will work best. The Hot Water method would be my choice, as it will give you a much more malleable piece of plastic, perfect for pressing into a mold.

• A release agent may need to be applied on some of the deeper more intricate molds.

Silicone Putty Molds – The silicone putty molds you can make yourself, from your own design, are one of my favorites. They work well with plastic softened, using any of the heating methods. I have had great success using these molds and have never had to use a release agent.

Work Surfaces

Your work surface is one of the most important aspects to consider when working with Friendly Plastic®. The surfaces we will be talking about are surfaces to heat the plastic on and surfaces to work on. The heating method, technique and the type of finished design you are trying to achieve, will determine what type of work surface you will need to use (See techniques for more information on suggested work surfaces).

Little Gold Pans – These are one of the most important tools you can have, if you ask me. Made by Nordic Ware, for use in toaster ovens, these little pans measure 8” x 10”, with a 6 1/2″” x 8 ½” work surface. They are coated with a durable non-stick finish that can stand up to years of use. One pan fits perfectly onto the Presto Liddle Griddle, where two fit nicely onto a standard size griddle. You can never have too many of these little gems. Perfect for use with all heating methods except the Hot Water method.

• Find them at Bed Bath and Beyond, by the toaster ovens.

Silicone Mats – Flexible non-stick silicone baking sheet liners (Silpat) are the perfect work surface when using any of the heating methods. The flexible nature of these non-stick sheets, allow you to form the plastic into dimensional shapes.

• Cut them to project size for easier use.

• Great for use with the Friendly Plastic® pellets.

• 3”x 9” is the perfect size for creating cuff bracelets.

Cookie sheets – Good quality standard size cookie sheets are great for use when designing larger projects.

• If you use one on the griddle make sure it fits flat on the cooking surface.

• They are also the perfect work surface when applying sealers.

Aluminum Foil – Heavy weight aluminum foil brushed with a light coat of oil, to prevent sticking, is another work surface which provides some interesting design possibilities.

• Plastic softened on aluminum foil can also be molded and shaped into 3 dimensional designs.

• This is also a good surface to use for large classes.

Teflon Sheets – A Teflon coated craft sheet such as a quilter’s appliqué sheet or Ranger’s craft sheet are great for use with all of the heating methods.

• Attach one of these sheets using double-sided tape to an acrylic cutting board, great surface to work on when using the heat tool, water bath or applying sealers.

Work Mat – Amaco’s rubber work mat is a great surface to use when working with plastic softened in hot water.

• Be sure to apply water to the mat to prevent the plastic from sticking to it.

All Rights reserved. No part of this document may be reproduced in any form or by any electronic or mechanical means including information storage and retrieval systems without permission in writing from the author and American Art Clay Co., Inc.

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Friendly Plastic®: Using the Fracture and Fusion Technique

Design by Jana Ewy for AMACO®

MATERIALS

Friendly Plastic® 7” sticks – in colors of your choice
AMACO® PolyBlade 
AMACO® Needle tool
AMACO® Work Mat 
Mat knife
Cutting mat
Acrylic ruler
Scissors
3/4” round shaped cutter
Small dish of cold water with a few drops of olive oil 
Griddle set at 200-300°F
Non-stick baking sheet that fits flat on griddle surface 
Heat tool
Sealer (Envirotex Lite was used but any high gloss acrylic sealer will work)
Disposable mixing container and stir stick
Straw
Non-stick cookie sheet
Adjustable ring blanks
3/4” square silver filigree
Small filigree flowers
Crystal rhinestones: optional
E6000 glue

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1
Fracture: Using a cutting mat, ruler, and blade, cut the plastic sticks into 1/4” and 1/8” strips. Then cut the strips in half using scissors. Cut enough strips in order to create an interesting color pattern. 

Step 2
Fusion:  Pre-heat the griddle. Place the baking sheet onto the griddle. One at a time, in the color pattern shown, or one of your own, place the Friendly Plastic® strips onto the baking sheet. Make sure each strip is stuck in place before adding the next. Try to press each strip tightly against the one before, to prevent any gaps. Continue until all of the strips have been added. Allow the plastic to soften and seal together. If any gaps do appear, simply tap over them with your finger, pressing the softened plastic together. When all the strips have softened and sealed together, remove the baking sheet from the griddle and allow the plastic to cool. Use the needle tool to press under the edges of the cooled plastic and remove it from the pan. 

Step 3
Fracture: Place the cooled Friendly Plastic® back on the cutting mat and trim off the two uneven edges. Continue to cut the plastic into random widths, until the entire piece has been cut apart. 

Step 4
Flip every other strip in reverse, revealing what the finished fractured pattern will look like. Play around with the different size strips until you have the desired pattern. The finished piece only needs to be large enough to accommodate the number of circle cut-outs that you want.

Step 5
Fusion: Place the baking sheet back onto the griddle. One at a time, in the pattern you have arranged, place the plastic strips onto the baking sheet. Make sure each strip is stuck in place before adding the next strip. Try to press each strip tightly against the one before, to prevent any gaps. Continue until all of the strips have been added. Allow the plastic to soften and seal together. If any gaps do appear, remember to tap over them with your finger, pressing the softened plastic together. When all the strips have softened and sealed together, remove the baking sheet from the griddle. 

Step 6
While the plastic is still warm, cut the circles by pressing the cutter into the softened plastic.  Dip the cutter back into the cold water after each cut. This will help keep it from sticking to the plastic. Allow the plastic to cool. You may place the pan under cold running water to speed the cooling process along. Use the needle tool to press under the edges of the cooled plastic and remove it from the pan. Pop out the circles. If needed use the craft knife to cut around each one. 

Step 7
Mix the Envirotex lite sealer following the manufacturer’s instructions. Application: Place pieces on a non-stick cookie sheet. This way if there is any run off, it will be easy to remove later. Once the Envirotex is mixed, pour it into a small squeeze bottle. The application will be more precise and much easier. Once the resin has been applied, blow softly through a straw over each piece to pop any bubbles that remain. Allow the pieces to dry at least 12 hours. If there has been any run off, remove the piece from the pan by pressing the needle tool under it and lifting. The resin is still soft enough that you can cut the excess off with scissors. Envirotex cures completely in 24 hours. 

Step 8
Position and glue the filigree square onto the ring blank. Next glue the plastic circle into the center of the filigree. Finish by adhering the filigree flower onto the center of the Friendly Plastic® circle. Add a crystal rhinestone if desired. Allow the glue to dry.   

Variation: Try using different color combinations and different types of filigree designs to create your very own unique look.

Using the Friendly Plastic® Splash Technique

Designed by Jana Ewy for AMACO®

MATERIALS

Friendly Plastic® 7” sticks – Mother of Pearl 
Adirondack® Alcohol inks – colors of your choice. 
Alcohol blending fluid
Rubbing alcohol, 91% isopropyl
Paintbrush
Scissors
Ruler
Stylus
Paper cutter
Sealer: Envirotex Lite was used but any high gloss acrylic sealer will work
Non-stick cookie sheet 
Distress ink: vintage photo
Black card stock
White card stock
Black and white checkered paper
Printed sentiments or words 
Antiqued brass 1/8” eyelets: and setting tool

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1
Place the stick of Friendly Plastic® on a protected work surface. I start with a wash of the blending fluid over the plastic stick.

Step 2
In a random pattern, apply drops of ink in one or two colors as your background colors. Allow the colors to blend together. Use your paintbrush to fill in any white areas that are left. Clean brush.

Step 3
Dip the brush into the rubbing alcohol and touch the plastic where you want to create white circles. These circles will resemble puddles. 

Step 4
Choose another coordinating color of ink and dilute slightly with rubbing alcohol. Using the brush apply this color within the white puddles. Continue this process until you have obtained a pattern you are happy with. Try using different colors.

Step 5
Now comes the splashing part: dip your brush into the rubbing alcohol, apply a drop of a desired color of ink to the bristles, and splash (splatter) the ink across the surface of the plastic.  Repeat this with as many colors of ink as you like. Allow the finished design to dry completely.

Step 6
Using scissors, cut the Friendly Plastic® to the desired size. 

Step 7
Apply the Envirotex sealer following the manufacturer’s instructions.

Place pieces on a non-stick cookie sheet. This way if there is any run off, it will be easy to remove later. Once the Envirotex is mixed, pour it into a small squeeze bottle. The application will be more precise and much easier. Blow softly, through a straw to pop any bubbles that remain. Allow the resin to dry at least 12 hours. If there has been any run off, remove the piece from the pan by pressing the needle tool under it and lifting it off the sheet. You can cut the excess that has run off with scissors. Envirotex cures completely in 24 hours.

Step 8
Create three 5 1/2” square cards, using black card stock. Measure 1/2” from the fold and score using the stylus. 

Step 9
Measure and mark the hole placement along the fold – 3/4” from the top with the holes 2” apart. Punch the holes and insert and set the eyelets.

Step 10
Print the sentiments of your choice onto white card stock and cut out as 3/8” strips. Tear the ends off to a suitable length. Use the remainder of the white card stock and cut three 2” x 3 3/8” rectangle mats. Distress the edges of both the sentiment strips and the mats using the distress ink.

Step 11
Now cut three 1 7/8” x 3 1/4” rectangle mats from black card stock and three 1 3/4” x 3” mats from the checkerboard paper.

Step 12
Layer and adhere the mats together using glue or double-sided tape. White, black, checkerboard. Adhere the Splashed plastic onto the checkerboard mat. Next, position and adhere the matted piece to the center of the card.

Step 13
Position and adhere the sentiment below the splashed plastic.

The inlay technique is a perfect way to use your Friendly Plastic® scraps left over from other projects. And what a great gift… a set of magnets in a heart shaped tin.

Designed by Jana Ewy for AMACO®

MATERIALS

Friendly Plastic® 7” stick – Mother of Pearl
Friendly Plastic® scraps (pieces left over from other projects)
AMACO® PolyBlade
AMACO® Needle Tool
Heart shaped cutter and 3/4” circle cutter: or cutter shape of your choice
Small dish of cold water with a few drops of olive oil 
Griddle set at 200-300°F
Non-stick baking sheet that fits flat on griddle surface 
Sealer (Envirotex Lite used, but any high gloss acrylic sealer will work)
Disposable mixing container and stir stick
Straw
Non-stick cookie sheet
Brass flower
Brass teardrop shaped book mark
Pink rhinestone
Heart shaped tin: check the bridle section of your local craft store.
Magnets: 3/4” round
E6000 glue

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1
Pre-heat the griddle. Place the baking sheet onto the griddle. Place the white Friendly Plastic® stick onto the baking sheet and allow it to soften. 

Step 2
Gather together some of your favorite Friendly Plastic® scraps. Position and begin to place the scraps down the center of the white plastic. Allow the scraps to soften and inlay into the white plastic. The longer they are left on the heat, the deeper the inlay. 

Step 3
Remove the pan from the griddle. While the plastic is still warm, cut six circles and one heart by pressing the cutter into the softened plastic. Dip the cutter back into the cold water after each cut. This will help keep it from sticking to the plastic. Allow the plastic to cool. Use the needle tool to press under the edges of the cooled plastic and remove it from the pan. Pop out the cut shapes. If needed use the craft knife to cut around each one.

Step 4
Apply the Envirotex sealer following the manufacturer’s instructions. 

Note: Place pieces on a non-stick cookie sheet. This way if there is any run off, it will be easy to remove later. Once the Envirotex is mixed, pour it into a small squeeze bottle. The application will be more precise and much easier. Blow softly, through the straw to pop any bubbles that remain. Allow the resin to dry at least 12 hours. If there has been any run off, remove the piece from the pan by pressing the needle tool under it and lifting. You can cut the excess off with scissors. Envirotex cures completely in 24 hours.

Step 5
Glue the heart onto the center of the lid. Glue the rhinestone into the center of the brass flower. Position and adhere the flower onto the heart. Allow the glue to dry. 

Step 6
Glue a plastic circle onto each of the magnets. Allow the glue to dry. Place the magnets into the tin.

Friendly Plastic®: the Fracture and Fusion Technique

Designed by Jana Ewy for AMACO®

MATERIALS

Friendly Plastic® 7” sticks – in colors of your choice
AMACO® Work Mat
AMACO® PolyBlade
AMACO® Needle Tool
Cutting mat
Mat knife
Acrylic ruler
Scissors
1 1/4” round cutters or cutter shape of your choice
Small dish of cold water with a few drops of olive oil 
Griddle set at 200-300°F
Non-stick baking sheet that fits flat on griddle surface 
Heat tool
Sealer (Envirotex Lite used, but any high gloss acrylic sealer will work)
Disposable mixing container and stir stick
Straw
Non-stick cookie sheet
Brass filigree flowers, 2”, 3/4”  and 1/2” in size.
Brass teardrop shaped book mark
Crystal flat back rhinestone
E6000 glue

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1
Fracture: Using a cutting mat, ruler and blade, cut the Friendly Plastic® sticks into 1/4” and 1/8” strips. Then cut the strips in half using scissors. Cut enough strips to create a 1 1/2” x 3 1/2” rectangle. This size will allow you to make two bookmarks, if desired.

Step 2
Fusion:  Pre-heat the griddle. Place the baking sheet onto the griddle. One at a time, in a color pattern of your choice, place the plastic strips onto the baking sheet. Make sure each strip is stuck in place before adding the next. Try to press each strip tightly against the one before, to prevent any gaps. Continue until all of the strips have been added. Allow the plastic to soften and seal together. If any gaps do appear, simply tap over them with your finger, pressing the softened plastic together. When all the strips have softened and sealed together, remove the baking sheet from the griddle and allow the plastic to cool. Use the needle tool to press under the edges of the cooled plastic and remove it from the pan. 

Step 3
Fracture: Place the cooled plastic back on the cutting mat and trim off the two uneven edges. Continue to cut the plastic into random widths, until the entire piece has been cut apart. 

Step 4
Flip every other strip in reverse, revealing what the finished fractured pattern will look like. Play around with the different size strips until you have the desired pattern. The finished piece only needs to be large enough to accommodate two large circle cut-outs. 

Step 5
Fusion: Place the baking sheet back onto the griddle. One at a time, in the pattern you have arranged, place the plastic strips onto the baking sheet. Make sure each strip is stuck in place before adding the next strip. Try to press each strip tightly against the one before, to prevent any gaps. Continue until all of the strips have been added. Allow the plastic to soften and seal together. If any gaps do appear, remember to tap over them with your finger, pressing the softened plastic together. When all the strips have softened and sealed together, remove the baking sheet from the griddle. 

Step 6
While the plastic is still warm, cut two circles by pressing the cutter into the softened plastic. Dip the cutter back into the cold water after each cut. This will help keep it from sticking to the plastic. Allow the plastic to cool. You may place the pan under cold running water to speed the cooling process along. Use the needle tool to press under the edges of the cooled plastic and remove it from the pan. Pop out the circles. If needed use the PolyBlade to cut around each one. 

Step 7
Mix the Envirotex lite sealer following the manufacturer’s instructions. Application: Place pieces on a non-stick cookie sheet. This way if there is any run off, it will be easy to remove later. Once the Envirotex is mixed, pour it into a small squeeze bottle. The application will be more precise and much easier. Once the resin has been applied, blow softly through a straw over each piece to pop any bubbles that remain. Allow the pieces to dry at least 12 hours. If there has been any run off, remove the piece from the pan by pressing the needle tool under it and lifting. The resin is still soft enough that you can cut the excess off with scissors. Envirotex cures completely in 24 hours. 

Step 8
Position and glue the 2” filigree flower to the top of the bookmark. Glue the friendly plastic circle into the center of the 2” filigree flower. Next, position and glue the 3/4” filigree flower onto the plastic and the 1/2” flower into the center of it. Finally, glue the crystal rhinestone into place. Allow the glue to dry.  

Variation: Try using different color combinations to create your very own unique look.

Friendly Plastic® Cylinder Technique

Design by Jana Ewy

MATERIALS

AMACO® Friendly Plastic® 7” sticks – Gold, Gold Spectra, Swirl, Turquoise, Light Blue
AMACO® PolyBlade or craft blade
AMACO® Needle Tool
Mat knife
Acrylic ruler
Cutting mat
Scissors
Griddle set at 200-300°F
Non-stick baking sheet
Silicone non-stick baking sheet liner, cut to size: 3”x 8 1/2”
8” length of 1/8” (4mm) rubber tubing, sold by the foot at Hobby stores 
Large bowl of cold water
Round nose and needle nose jewelry pliers
Wire cutters 
Jewelry supplies and findings: head pins, wire, bead caps, spacer beads, chain, clasp, 8mm blue Swarovski crystal, two 4mm turquoise bi-cone Swarovski crystals, glass turquoise flower bead and jump rings 

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1
Using a cutting mat, ruler, and PolyBlade, cut a 1/4” and 1/8” strip from each color of plastic stick. Then cut the strips in half using scissors. 

Step 2
Pre-heat the griddle. Place the baking sheet onto the griddle. One at a time, in the color pattern shown, or one of your own, place the plastic strips onto the baking sheet. Make sure each strip is stuck in place before adding the next. Try to press each strip tightly against the one before to prevent any gaps. Continue until the desired number of strips have been added. 

Step 3
Allow the plastic to soften and seal together. If any gaps do appear, simply tap over them with your finger, pressing the softened plastic together. When all the strips have softened and sealed together, remove the baking sheet from the griddle and allow the plastic to cool. Use the needle tool to press under the edges of the cooled plastic and remove it from the pan. 

Step 4
Place the cooled plastic back on the cutting mat and trim off the uneven edges. Cut the plastic into 1” wide strips. 

Step 5
Lay the silicone sheet onto the griddle. Position the plastic strip right side down onto the center of the silicone sheet and allow the plastic to soften. You will notice as the plastic softens it becomes very shiny. It is important that you watch this process closely. As soon as the entire strip is shiny, remove the silicone sheet from the heat and lay it onto your counter or work surface.

Step 6
Carefully lay the rubber tubing along the top edge of the softened plastic strip. 

Step 7
Moisten your fingers and hands with water to prevent sticking to the plastic and begin to roll it up and around the tubing. Continue until all of the plastic is wrapped around the tubing. Now you can use your fingers and palms of your hands to roll the cylinder back and forth on the silicone sheet to secure and seal the overlap.

When you are happy with the look of your cylinder, pick it up by the extended ends of the tubing pulling it straight and taut. Quickly run it under the flow of cold water from the faucet. This will quickly harden the outside of the cylinder allowing you to lay it down to finish the cooling process without the fear of it getting marred. 

Step 8
After the cylinder has cooled and the plastic has hardened completely, remove the rubber tubing by pulling on each of the exposed ends until the seal within the cylinder has been broken. You will know when this has happened, as the tubing will slide out. 

Step 9
Place the cylinder onto the cutting mat and trim off the uneven ends using the PolyBlade. You do need to put a little muscle behind it in order to cut through the plastic. Just do so carefully. Continue to cut the cylinder into 1” beads. 

Step 10
Assembling the components.
Slide the 8mm crystal and spacer bead onto a head pin and form a wrapped loop to finish. Place the bi-cone crystal, flower, and bead cap on a head pin forming a wrapped loop to finish. Lace a bi-cone crystal onto a head pin then finish with a wrapped loop. Cut a 4” length of wire form a wrapped loop at one end. Lace on a spacer bead, bead cap, Friendly Plastic cylinder bead, bead cap and spacer bead, finish with a wrapped loop.  Cut the chain to the desired length, and finish by attaching the clasp and jump ring.

Step 11
Attach the single bi-cone bead to the cylinder component using a jump ring. Attach each of the finished components to the chain using jump rings.

Attach the single bi-cone bead to the cylinder component using a jump ring. Attach each of the finished components to the chain using jump rings.

Friendly Plastic® Splash Technique

Design by Jana Ewy

MATERIALS

AMACO® Friendly Plastic® 7” Stick – White
AMACO® PolyBlade
AMACO® Needle Tool
Adirondack® Alcohol inks – Stream, Lettuce, Oregano, Butterscotch
Alcohol blending fluid
Rubbing alcohol
Paintbrush
3/4” Heart shape cutter 
Small dish of ice cold water with a few drops of olive oil in it. Note: Keep the cutter in this dish. 
Scissors
Electric griddle set at 200-250°F
Non-stick baking sheet
Envirotex Lite resin sealer or any high gloss acrylic sealer 
Non-stick cookie sheet
E6000 Glue
Jewelry components and findings of your choice: chain, clasp, bead cap, dragonfly connector, pendant connector, jump rings, and 3 small rhinestones

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1
Place the stick of plastic on a protected work surface. Apply a wash of the blending fluid over the plastic stick.

Step 2
In a random pattern, apply drops of Lettuce and Butterscotch as your background colors. Allow the colors to blend together. Use your paintbrush to fill in any white areas that are left. Clean brush.

Step 3
Dip the brush into the rubbing alcohol and touch the plastic where you want to create white circles. These circles will resemble puddles. 

Step 4
Mix a drop of Stream and Butterscotch together to create another shade of green, dilute slightly with rubbing alcohol and using the brush, apply within the white puddles. 

Step 5
Continue this process until you have attained a pattern you are happy with. 

Step 6
As the final application, dip your brush into the rubbing alcohol and splash (splatter) the alcohol across the surface of the plastic. This helps disperse the ink a little more, creating a more intricate pattern. Allow to dry completely.

Step 7
Pre-heat the griddle. Place the baking sheet onto the griddle and the plastic onto the baking sheet. Allow the plastic to soften. 

Step 8
Remove the pan from the griddle. While the plastic is still warm, cut out three hearts by pressing the cutter into the softened plastic. Be sure to dip the cutter back into the cold water after each cut. This will help keep it from sticking to the plastic. Allow the plastic to cool. Note: You may place the pan under cold running water to speed the cooling process along. 

Step 9
Use the needle tool to press under the edges of the cooled plastic to remove it from the pan. Pop out the ovals. If needed, use the PolyBlade to cut around each one. With scissors, cut a stem from the remaining plastic.

Step 10
Apply the Envirotex sealer following the manufacturer’s instructions. Place pieces on a non-stick cookie sheet. This way if there is any run off, it will be easy to remove later. Once the Envirotex is mixed, pour it into a small squeeze bottle. The application will be more precise and much easier. Blow softly through a straw to pop any bubbles that remain. Allow the resin to dry at least 12 hours. If there has been any run off, remove the piece from the pan by pressing the needle tool under it and lifting it off the sheet. You can cut the excess that has run off with scissors. Envirotex cures completely in 24 hours.

Step 11
Place a heart onto your non-stick sheet and heat along the point of the heart with your heat gun to soften the plastic. Now position the other two hearts on either side and press them up against the softened heart. This will form the clover. Continue to apply heat over the clover, then add the stem. Continue to heat for a few seconds to secure the bond. Allow to cool completely.

Step 12
Gather your jewelry components and findings. Position and glue the dragonfly along the top of the clover so the loop of the dragon extends above the clover. This will be your connecting point. Glue on the bead cap and rhinestones. Allow the glue to dry.

Step 13
Assemble the necklace and attach to the clover pendant using jump rings.

Friendly Plastic® Marbling Technique

Design by Jana Ewy

MATERIALS

AMACO® Friendly Plastic® 7” sticks – Turquoise, Avocado, Swirl, Gold
AMACO® Craft Marbling Comb
AMACO® PolyBlade
AMACO® Needle Tool
1 1/4” Oval shape cutter 
Small dish of ice cold water with a few drops of olive oil. Note: keep the cutter in this dish. 
Cutting mat
Acrylic ruler 
Mat knife or utility knife
Scissors
Electric griddle set at 200 to 250F
Non-stick baking sheet
Envirotex Lite, resin sealer, or any high gloss acrylic sealer 
Non-stick cookie sheet
Jewelry components and findings of your choice

TECHNIQUE

Step 1
Using the cutting mat, ruler and matte knife, cut one 1/4” strip from each color of plastic. Now cut each strip in half with scissors.

Step 2
Pre-heat the griddle. Place the baking sheet onto the griddle. Place the plastic strips onto the baking sheet one at a time in the color pattern of your choice. Make sure each strip is stuck in place before adding the next strip. Try to press each strip tightly against the one before to prevent any gaps. Allow the plastic to soften and seal together. If any gaps do appear, simply tap over them with your finger pressing the softened plastic together.

Step 3
When all the strips have softened and sealed together, place the teeth of the marbling comb against the baking sheet and draw the comb towards you in a wavy “S” pattern cutting through the plastic. 

Note: It is very important that you keep the teeth of the comb against the pan while cutting through the plastic. If you only rake over the top, you split the metallic finish and take the chance of exposing too much of the base plastic. 

Step 4
Place the teeth of the marbling comb in between the lines you just cut. Now push the comb away following the same wavy pattern, bisecting the previous pass. 

Step 5
Remove the pan from the griddle. While the plastic is still warm, cut out the oval by pressing the cutter into the softened plastic. If you are cutting several ovals, be sure to dip the cutter back into the cold water after each cut. This will help keep it from sticking to the plastic. 

Step 6
Allow the plastic to cool. You may place the pan under cold running water to speed the cooling process along. Use the needle tool to press under the edges of the cooled plastic to remove it from the pan. Pop out the ovals. If needed use the craft knife to cut around each one.

Step 7
Apply the Envirotex sealer following the manufacturer’s instructions. Place pieces on a non stick cookie sheet. This way if there is any run off, it will be easy to remove later. Once the Envirotex is mixed, pour it into a small squeeze bottle. The application will be more precise and much easier. Blow softly, through a straw to pop any bubbles that remain. Allow the resin to dry at least 12 hours. If there has been any run off, remove the piece from the pan by pressing the needle tool under it and lifting it off the sheet. You can cut the excess that has run off with a scissor. Envirotex cures completely in 24 hours.

Step 8
Gather your jewelry components and findings and assemble them in a pleasing design.

The marbled cabochons are the perfect focal piece in any style of jewelry.