A worry stone is a small, smooth stone with a thumb-sized depression in the middle that can be rubbed for a calming effect. This guide will show you how to create your own worry stones using polymer clay.
Materials Needed
- Polymer clay in two different colors
Note: I prefer the Sculpey Brand Baking Clay - Flat working surface
- Oven for baking
- Package instructions for your specific polymer clay
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Clay
1. Start with two pieces of polymer clay in different colors
2. Note that the clay will initially be very hard
3. Knead each piece separately with your hands until it becomes softer
4. Continue kneading until both pieces are warm and pliable
Step 2: Create the Marble Effect
1. Roll each piece of softened clay into a long, skinny coil
2. Place both coils together
3. Roll the combined coils into one longer coil
4. Create the marble effect:
– Fold the coil in half
– Roll it out again
– Twist the coil
– Roll it again
– Repeat this process until you achieve your desired marble pattern
Important: Stop marbling before the colors blend completely together
Step 3: Form the Stone
1. Squish all the marbled clay together
2. Roll it into a round ball
3. Make sure it’s smooth and even on all sides
4. Choose the most visually appealing side for the thumb impression
Step 4: Create the Thumb Depression
1. Use the inside of your thumb to make an impression in the center of the ball
2. Press down firmly but gently
3. Smooth away any fingerprint marks around the depression
4. The back will remain flat while the top will have the smooth thumb depression
Step 5: Baking
1. Follow the specific baking instructions on your polymer clay package
2. Place the stone in the oven at the recommended temperature
3. Bake for the recommended time
4. Allow to cool completely before handling
Tips
- Don’t overwork the marbling process or your colors will completely blend together
- Make sure your thumb impression is smooth and comfortable
- The finished stone should be small enough to carry in a pocket
- Create multiple stones with different color combinations
Usage
Once cooled, your worry stone can be carried with you and used whenever you need a moment of calm. Simply rub your thumb in the depression of the stone for a soothing effect.
Safety Note
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for baking polymer clay, including temperature and ventilation requirements.