How to care for your polymer clay earrings

It is a myth that polymer clay earrings are extremely fragile. Polymer clay is light weight and durable when cured properly and when the right type of polymer clay chosen is suitable for its intended use. But polymer clay is also porous and susceptible to water damage- for this reason my main recommendation for your polymer clay jewellery is to avoid wearing them in water. Forgetting them once or twice in the shower is totally understandable and relatable; but I wouldn't make a habit of swimming in them and definitely avoiding chlorinated and salt water.

You may have seen some videos online of creators bending their earrings to show how flexible they can be! Please don't try this with your own polymer clay jewellery! Whilst polymer clay can be a durable and slightly flexible material, it is not indestructible and if under enough stress it will break and unfortunately cannot be fixed. I always make a test piece and if I cannot easily break it by hand, I know I got it right- so you can be reassured your earrings will be with you for the long haul.

Being in close proximity to the lovely face your earrings may get makeup stains. Plain soapy water on a damp rag will do the trick to clean them right up. It is also best to avoid spraying them with hairspray, perfume etc as the chemicals in such can degrade the clay - put them on after your hair and makeup.

I'm guilty of throwing my earrings into the bottom of my handbag, sure! Just keep in mind they are better stored in the dry, safe conditions of your jewellery box and not rolling around in the abyss of the bag lest they get scratched or broken.

Silver, gold plated, and brass components are prone to tarnishing over time; a jewellery cleaning cloth or a cotton rag can be used to polish and restore shine. For brass components you can use a specialised brass polisher or rub a small amount of toothpaste until shiny.

so basically (like recommended for most other jewellery):

• do not wear them in water, pool or shower.
• if they become dirty with makeup etc, clean with a soft damp cloth with water and a gentle soap if required.
• polish up metal components with a polishing or cotton cloth. 
• do not forcefully bend or drop them.
• avoid spraying them with makeup, hairspray or perfume.
• store them in a jewellery box when not in use so they don't become scratched, bent or twisted.

I take pride in my creations and intend that with the proper care your earrings will be with you for years to come!