How To Do The Sutton Slice - Polymer Clay Technique

In today's mini tutorial I'm going to show you how to do the Sutton Slice. This 3 dimensional polymer clay technique was developed around 20 years ago by polymer clay artist Pete Sutton.

The first time I saw it done, was around 10 years ago by well known polymer clay artist Lisa Pavelka. It is one of those techniques that is 'in the commons' and is done and taught by many people in our niche.

The Sutton Slice is one of those techniques that is simple in theory, but can be tricky to do well. So I thought that I'd share with you my tips and tricks that will make it easier for you.

In the video, I show some examples of the Sutton Slice made into some medallions, used in some necklace designs.

I show you how different the technique looks, when you use a single color vs a Teardrop Blend (Skinner Blend).

I also discuss what kind of stamps and or texture sheets that are the best suited for this technique, as well as the type and softness of the clay that you are using.

The technique itself is demonstrated, and there are tons of tips and pointers to getting great results.

The stamps used in the video were supplied by Tonja Lenderman of Tonja's Treasures. I have some other stamps and silkscreens from Tonja, that I will be demonstrating in a future video, so stay tuned for that.

Hopefully this video answers any questions or issues you may have had in doing the Sutton Slice Technique. You will need to practice this one a few times. I suggest that you try doing it in a single color on the same colored background, so that you can 'smush up' and try again if you mess up.

Cindy Lietz & Doug Lietz
Polymer Clay Tutor

[shelleywalters]

i am hooked on your videos, we had a girls clay day a couple of weeks ago and plan on having many, in the process of creating a craft area in my basement. Thank you for your wonderful techniques, you are very easy to listen and learn from.

[carlycharlesworth]

I have today heard the expression Sutton Slice, whilst reading about POLYMER clay on the internet. And I have to say that I had absolutely no idea what it was. But after watching this wonderful video I am fully clear on what it is, and how to make one myself. Thank you so much for your video and your intelligent, practical, clear advice and demonstrations of all the fascinating techniques in the polymer clay world. You are a wonderful teacher! God bless you.

[jeanrutka]

Thanks for such a good demo. You always give good explanations and show problems that might come up. ❤❤❤

[hoodirash]

I always loves your videos and i hoped that i am near to your location so that i can attend your sessions if you have them physically. anyway, i am a big fan of your creativity. cant wait to see more of your videos. good luck and happy new year.

[PropheticEnvy]

very great video and easy to understand. I have been wanting to try this technique for a long time. but haven't found many deeply etched unmounted stamps to try it with. but after lots of shopping I've got a few nice ones to try. so I will remember your video :) I'm a long time fan so I always appreciate all the help and advice you give us fellow clay lovers. Also I was Hobby Lobby the other day and saw the glass cutting mat you have. I jus had to pick it up (later from Michaels because it was ALOT CHEAPER lol) but thanks for the tips! :)

[LPNeogetz]

Just tried this with amazing results. thank you for the video.

[phoebesweet]

amazing videos. Beginner here who had an epic fail when I tried a cane and made too much. I have been working safer and making round beads and in a month something like this will fit right in with the Christmas jewelry projects i'm heading for. I think this years home made gifts will be some of the best received ever.

[MultiJewelryLady]

This technique is cool!!! Thanks so much for sharing😊

[feltrimre]

Hi, Cindy. I'm a beginner at polymer clay and I'm having some problems with cracks in my pieces. I'm Brazilian and I've been working with PVClay. I'm following some of your tips such as using a ceramic tile in the oven and I'm baking according to manufacturer's recommendation. Can you help me to avoid these crackings after baking?
Thank you for your videos. I love them all. ☺️

[Cacheymama_crafts]

Thank you. Love your videos. I've learned so much!

[traceymarshall]

I love this technique. I'm quite new and this is something that I can actually do well lol.
can anyone tell me what size jump rings are used in that necklace please? it looks ace.
also, I'm learning loads from Cindy and think she's brilliant!
Happy Claying xx

[hkreations]

Turned out very pretty. So, Sculpey III would be an ideal clay to use, because of how soft it is, right? A good way to use up some scraps, to make reverse texture sheets too.

[Pamelakaygorman]

Cindy, can you tell me where you purchased your glass mat?

[rehamzarief]

u r an amazing teacher ;) .. keep going sweet heart i love ur work <3

[almondeastland]

Thank you for this video. I tried this technique for the first time this week. I made sure to add clay softener to my clay, so it was very soft and sticky. However, the mold is leaching the clay, so by the time I'm ready to roll it into the base sheet (especially if I don't have time to do it all in one sitting), the clay is dry and cracked. Have you heard of this before? Is there anything I can do to the molds to keep them from leaching the clay?

[eldermanager]

Hello -do you have a link for the tools you use, please? I'm thinking particularly of the cutting blade you use in this video as I've not seen one like that before. Thank you, 🙋🏻from Norfolk, UK.

[RameyRocks]

I have seen this before but never explained this well. Where do you get 99% alcohol? Tyfs!!

[Etianen]

I did sutton slice once and I forgot to use a release agent for the mold. Even though my clay was soft, it got stuck in the mold permanently and I have had hard time cleaning it out even with acetone and a brush :/ But when I use a release agent, the clay lifts when slicing so that's difficult too.

[RoloMonstr]

Would it not be easier to just use a rolling pin/tool for the same effect?

[antonshkabara]

I am sure you can still buy handbook with all info you need on woodprix. Just google it.