From funky to fashionable, you can create any type of shoe figurine you like from polymer clay.
You can mold anything you can imagine out of a material like polymer clay, including a miniature shoe. These delicate figurines can be part of an existing shoe collection or an addition to a fashion-focused person's decor. Polymer clay is a pliable, plastic-like material that can be formed into a shape and fired in a home oven, making it easier for a home crafter. Polymer clay becomes hard after baking but retains a glossy finish.
Instructions
1. Draw a rough idea of what you want your shoe figure to look like. You don't have to be the best artist for this step, just create a guide you will use as you proceed. You can also refer to images online, if you prefer.
2. Massage the piece of polymer clay until it's soft and warm.
3. Carve the clay into your shoe figure. Begin by firmly pressing the clay onto a flat work surface to ensure the sole is flat and smooth. Form the main structure of the shoe with your hands and use the popsicle sticks to hollow out the inside of the shoe. Use the toothpicks to carve details like high heels, bows or laces. Keep your hands clean while sculpting to keep stray hairs or dirt from marring your figurine.
4. Smooth the outside surface of the figurine with your popsicle slick, then rub the figure with moistened hands. The surface will be further smoothed after baking, but ensure there are not large ridges in the figurine.
5. Bake the figure in your oven at 275 degrees for 15 minutes per 1/4 inch of thickness at the figure's thickest point. Keep the windows open during this step and check your figure regularly to ensure you do not overbake it. Let the figure cool completely before proceeding.
6. Smooth the surface of the figure with rubbing alcohol and coat the entire figure with acrylic gesso, which will act as a binder for your paint. Let the acrylic gesso dry.
7. Paint the shoe using nail polish or other acrylic paint, giving it its finishing look. Allow the paint to dry before displaying.
