Cold porcelain is a relatively new craft phenomenon. It started about 30 years ago in South America and since then has grown rapidly in both popularity and availability. The quality of the clay has improved drastically in that time to have an amazingly smooth soft texture. It is perfect for sculpting very delicate pieces such as flowers and other plants. Now you can buy this ready made for your use, but its much more fun to make it at home. And the best part is you probably already have the ingredients!
Recipe for Cold Porcelain
1/2 Cup Water
3/4 Cup Elmers glue (or any white non-toxic school glue)
1 tsp. Ponds Cold Cream
1 tsp. Glycerin
1 Cup Corn Starch
1. Heat water, glue, cream, & glycerin in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Stir until bubbly.
2. Slowly mix in cornstarch stirring constantly.
3. Continue to mix until the ingredients takes on a smooth texture and start to form a ball. About one minute.
4. Remove from heat and cover with a damp cloth until cool enough to handle.
5. Knead mixture 3-4 minutes until consistency is smooth and slightly firm.
6. Enjoy, but DO NOT refrigerate. It will cause you dough to harden.
It’s really that easy! Now, if you are into candle or soap making its entirely possible you already have glycerin in your stock of supplies. If not it is readily available at any large craft supplier. Look among the soap making supplies or ask a sales person to point you in the right direction. I find they’re usually pretty helpful.
A few key facts to remember, always store your dough in an airtight container. It is called cold porcelain because it is meant to air dry not fire in a kiln. Also this is not food based so probably not the best to give the kids to play with. Otherwise have fun with your next new favorite craft!
Cold Porcelain is an amazing hobby and can become a money making thing too. Not only can you sell your beautiful pieces, but you can also create some info-products teaching people what you know.
For example, you can sell patterns and molds that you create, e-books that you create in your computer, some home made videos teaching some techniques, screen capture videos or slide shows with your voice showing how pieces are made and a lot more. Wouldn’t this be a great way to generate some extra cash?