Create faux opals that glow, flash, and misbehave beautifully in the light. This free polymer clay opal tutorial combines translucent clay, iridescent film, and scattered color to mimic the lively fire and depth of Australian opal.
Materials and tools
- Translucent, black, orange, blue, and white polymer clay
- Liquid translucent clay
- Chameleon flakes
- Iridescent film
- UV resin
- The usual tools
- White or colored polymer clay for the base
- Very thin translucent polymer clay
- Translucent liquid polymer clay
- Iridescent transparent gift-wrap film
- Irregular iridescent flake glitter
- Shape cutter
- Plastic wrap or deli sheet
- UV resin, optional
Technique overview
Cut a clay base, add liquid clay and crumpled iridescent film, then sprinkle on irregular chameleon flakes. Cover everything with a very thin translucent-clay layer (optional), shape the edges, and cure. A UV-resin coat intensifies the sparkle.
Process photographs
Opal translucent clay base topped with liquid clay
Cut opal cabochon shapes with plastic wrap
Polymer Clay Opals!
Related artwork
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