While a close inspection of my sculpting will no doubt prove it is not the case… I have actually been asked in classes if I have no or unusually shallow fingerprints.  I think my fingerprints are normal ones.  The key to making it look like I have no fingerprints lies in the various techniques and potions that I use to smooth my work.  I will run down a few tips here, and maybe if you have had struggles or haven’t found the method that best suits you, I can be of some small benefit.

First off I like to use a relatively stiff and dry clay.  Some clays like fimo can be very stiff but seem to have an almost oily surface feel that will take fingerprints like crazy.  Other clays may be dry enough but way too soft.  The key is finding one that best suits you.  Most often I use Kato Polyclay mixed with Super Sculpey or ProSculpt.  Sometimes leaching is required to get the clay to the proper consistency.

I also try to grip the clay very lightly.  As Katherine Dewey taught me years ago, it’s better to drop something than to smash it out of shape by holding it too tightly.  Sometimes I will even use a stand, a bead tool, or a hemostat to hold the piece on which I am working.

I try to use the largest possible tool that will still do the job.  While not a fingerprint issue, this does really help lessen tool marks left on the clay.

Lastly comes the potions, goops, sludges, and slurry that I use.  For different problems I use different stuff.  I do use 91% alcohol, lighter fluid, Sculpey Clay Softener (formerly called Diluent), and spit.  Over the last few months though there is something I have gone back to over and over again.  Lander Cocoa Butter Skin Cream works wonders for me.  This is a product most often found in Dollar Stores, but I found several sites online by doing a google search.  I use a little bit of the stuff (and I mean a LITTLE) on a brush or on the tool that I am using at the time, and it glides merrily along.  It is less messy due to its creamy consistency, it smells nice, is good on your hands, and if you get it at the dollar store you can get what seems to be a lifetime supply for a buck.  Give it a shot one of these days.  I can’t promise that it will work for everyone like it does for me, but if not, you are out a buck and will have the softest hands on the block.

Tommie