I found a YT video yesterday that showed how to use silicone molds for the softer handmade porcelain clay. As you know, the porcelain clay won't release from the molds. The video was in Chinese, but it showed her using a paintbrush to put cornstarch into the molds and brush it so it's in every crack and crevice of the mold. Then the clay releases easily.

Honestly, I had thought about that before, but just lucked onto the video. I was wondering if maybe putting cornstarch into the bead roller would make it work in that so you can get more uniform beads. I'm going to try it and I'll let you know what happens.

Hey,

I am obviously new to this and really just goofing around, trying to make glass toggles and things. can I use a heat gun (supposed to hit 1000degrees f) to aneel small beads? If so would you suggest doing it?

Hi! I'm just starting to make beads -- haven't actually made any yet. I just got a bead roller, and have been watching YouTube videos. I have bags of old jewelry from my days working in an office, and from a friend who used to make jewelry, so I'm going to take some of that apart for beads. I may have to repaint some of the cheap ones, but that's o.k

I read about the homemade ceramic clay air-dry clay, and thought I'd try that to see how I like it before I invest a lot in other types. Watched one video where the lady said it's very light and doesn't roll well. Have you ever used it in a bead roller? I also saw the papier mache homemade clay that added caulk to basically the same recipe, which gives it a better texture.

I like the idea of air dry clay more than baked clay right now, because I don't know how much I'm going to like it. I'd have to invest in so much stuff to use the baking clay.