Art Deco Flower Texture Mat

10cm x 8cm rubber texture mat made in house here at Clay By Design Supplies.

Using a rubber texture mat is one of the best ways to get professional, intricate designs. 

How to Use a Texture Mat
* Prepare the Clay: Roll out your polymer clay to your desired thickness (usually 2mm–3mm for earrings). It helps to roll it onto a piece of parchment paper or a tile so it doesn't move.
* Apply a Release Agent: To prevent the clay from getting stuck in the fine details of the rubber:
  * Water: Lightly spritz the mat with water. This is the most common method as it doesn't change the clay's color.
  * Cornstarch/Talc: Dust the mat lightly with a soft brush and tap off the excess. This works great for very sticky clay but may leave a matte residue you'll need to wash off after baking.
* The Impression:
  * Place the mat face down on the clay.
  * Use an acrylic roller to roll over the mat once with firm, even pressure. Try not to roll back and forth, as this can cause "ghosting" or blurred lines.
* The Reveal: Gently peel the mat back from one corner. If the clay is sticking, stop and add more release agent.
How to Clean the Mat
If you're finding "clay muck" (bits of clay stuck in the crevices), use these steps to keep the mat in top shape:
* The "Dab" Method (Best for Fresh Clay): Take a ball of clean, conditioned scrap clay and press it firmly into the areas where clay is stuck. Pull it away quickly—the stuck bits will usually bond to the scrap clay and lift right out.
* Soap and Water: For general cleaning, use lukewarm water, a mild dish soap, and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Scrub gently in a circular motion to reach the deep grooves.
* Alcohol for Residue: If the mat feels "filmy" or oily, wipe it down with a lint-free cloth dipped in 70% Isopropyl Alcohol.

Note: Do not soak rubber mats in alcohol for long periods, as it can eventually cause some types of rubber to degrade or become brittle.