Quite often I read from other clay workers that having nails is a big old no-no when it comes to sculpting. Now, in my case, I really say "sculpting" loosely. I work with polymer clay, making cute little charms like these.



I'm in no way a professional sculptor, those guys blow my mind. Seriously.

Anyways, back on topic, I find having nails a god-send. I use my nails in place of dental tools or other sculpting tools. My index nail is great for wide gouges, my pinky nail is great for fine detail, etc etc.

Of course that doesn't mean you don't have to be VERY careful with your nails. It's a lot like holding scissors, a poker, and knives in your hands all the time while handling pliable clay. If you aren't careful, then the two really don't go together all that well.

Even while painting.I think I often wear more paint than whatever it is I'm painting. And *cough* Penguin Pajamas FTW!! :D I've also found that if I'm tired and not paying 100% attention then one of my nails will nick the wet paint and scoop it off my canvas or Munny.

But again I find them useful while painting. If I want a specific line in something I can use my nail to scoop off the paint on purpose and then fill it in again later.

Presto! Instant free tools.

Now if I could just learn how to NOT break my nails. Hm.

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