Mica Shift, part 1

[eutrapelia1]

Thank you, kimadawest, this explanation is very helpful.

[kimadawest]

Next:

- You take the clay out of the package and knead it by hand, then pass it through the pasta machine several times (suggestion: if you fold it put it in the machine *fold first*; the other way, which is sometimes done here, can trap air bubbles in the clay - very hard to get out). This helps align the particles in one direction.

- Then press the texture plate against the clay (you can use water or cornstarch to keep it from sticking; cornstarch washes off afterward).

[kimadawest]

OK, I don't speak Russian, but I have worked with this stuff, so here's my interpretation: Mica particles in some polymer clays (the "metallic" ones) can be "arranged" so that their flat surfaces are laying all in one direction. The flat surface reflects light so they will sparkle a bit if you look at them that way. If you look at them on their sides, though, all you see is dark. "Mica shift" technique uses this characteristic to make dark and light patterns in the clay.

[eutrapelia1]

Sorry, this lesson is only in Russian, but if you have any questions, I'd try to explain the process.

[justforfun6677]

I cannot understand >.<