Fimo/polymer clay

[Iknownothing]

DD (13) has asked for clay for Christmas - I’m pretty sure that she means fimo type stuff to make mini figures and things. I know Fimo is ‘the’ brand but I’ve seen some kits on Amazon that are cheaper and include tools and key ring attachments which look really good- are they? Or is it worth buying the brand? Any recommendations for a good starter set for a 13yr old?

Don’t buy off brand. But don’t get plain fimo. It requires too much prep, basically requiring crazy amounts of kneading before it is soft enough to use.

The two main brands are Fimo and Sculpey. Both are high quality and are great to use. Both have a soft version that is much easier to work with and still yields excellent results. That is the version you want to buy.

DS got a "fake fimo" set fire his birthday. It seems to work as well as Fimo. I think it was this one https://www.amazon.co.uk/Polymer-Clay-Set-Colors-Modeling/dp/B0791ZS6F7/ref=mpsa11_sspa?dchild=1&keywords=fimo&qid=1635170123&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1&smid=A1DUD8PYYFUVV2&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUFOTlJWTzJZWEdJNzEmZW5jcnlwdGVkSWQ9QTA5Nzg4ODYxM0VTMjAyTDZEMk9aJmVuY3J5cHRlZEFkSWQ9QTEwMzU5MDIzMUZPRFBDTTU3WE5FJndpZGdldE5hbWU9c3BfcGhvbmVfc2VhcmNoX2F0ZiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU=]]

Sorry - I've forgotten how to do links.

Great thanks for the advice - will do some more investigating!

Wrap it when it's not in use, if it gets dried out and crumbly you can work it till it's useable again but it's hell on your hands to get it pliable again.

Remind her to wash her hands after she uses it (or wear gloves) and don't use any tools or equipment you need for food on polymer clay.- like butter knives, cookie cutters or rolling pins - buy separate ones that are only for clay. It's not food safe so you don't want to ingest it or be making plates or cups unless they are purely decorative.

I've had non brand Fimo before and haven't noticed any difference but they were a gift packet, I'd normally buy Fimo because I know it's good stuff. It's loads of fun!