Large Round Bead Roller Instructions

Large Round Bead Set

Bead Roller Set Components

Create These Bead Shapes Cut clay at 1 5/8" for the 20mm bead and 1 1/4" for the 22mm bead after removing shaved clay from top chamber of roller.

Bead Roller Components
There are two bases and two tops to this set. To roll the 20mm size bead, the base and lid that have a single dot are used. To roll the 22mm size bead, the base and lid each having two dots on them are used.

Measuring Clay
To roll beads successfully, clay must be measured. You will need a sharp blade, which can cause personal injury and is not intended for use by unsupervised children. Always hold a clay blade by its dull edge. Pack conditioned clay in the chamber of the roller top for the bead you wish to roll. Carefully trim the excess clay off, using the clay blade held nearly parallel with the roller top. Cut away from yourself and keep fingers clear of the blade. The surface of the clay filled chamber should be flat and level with the roller top. Using a six inch ruler with raised increment marks, press one edge of the ruler into the clay, just enough to leave the marks from the ruler. Remove the clay from the top and place it on a work surface. Cut the length at 1 5/8" for the 20mm bead and 1 1/4" for the 22mm bead. Note: If you do not have a ruler with raised increments, use any ruler. Hold the ruler alongside the clay filled channel and mark the lengths needed by marking only the surface of the clay filled channel. Remove the clay, and then cut the lengths at the marks.

Rolling Beads
Hand roll measured clay into a ball and place in the channel of the base for the bead shape you wish to create. Be certain the base is the mate for the lid that was used to measure the clay. Place the roller top on the base over the clay and move the top back and forth. The stroke length needs to be no longer than an inch or two. Move only until bead is formed. Rapid, long strokes are unnecessary and could be detrimental to success.

Curing Carefully pierce beads with a sharp object such as a toothpick or needle tool. Place on a non-metal surface and bake at the temperature recommended by clay manufacturer. Option: AMACO also makes a Bead Baking Rack that includes bead piercing pins. Simply pierce the beads and suspend on the rack for baking.

Cleaning
Baby oil or mineral oil on a soft cloth or paper towel is recommended to clean your rollers as needed. Always wipe dry after cleaning. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive materials.