Shop polymer clay in NZ from Handy Mandy: the Mont Marte Make n Bake range, 60 g blocks in 32 colours including metallics. Free NZ shipping over $75, dispatched from Morningside, Auckland in 1–3 working days.

Polymer clay (aka oven-bake clay) is malleable when you work it, then sets rock-hard after 15–20 minutes in a standard household oven: no kiln, no fancy equipment. Once hard it can be drilled, sanded, cut, painted and even washed with warm soapy water. That makes it the right clay for jewellery, miniatures, sculpting, kids' craft, and NCEA art projects where you need a permanent set.

Which polymer clay should you buy?

• Make n Bake 60 g blocks: the right starter size for jewellery, charms, miniatures and small sculpture pieces. Mix and match colours as you go.
• Metallic Make n Bake: gold, silver, rose gold, bronze and more, for jewellery and statement pieces.
• Make n Bake sets: pre-curated colour collections, the easiest way to start.

Polymer clay or air-dry clay: which is right for you?

Use polymer clay when you need durability, fine detail, or strong colour saturation. Use air-dry clay when you need scale (large pieces), don't have access to an oven, or want a more matte natural finish. Full comparison guide here.

What pairs with polymer clay

Most polymer-clay buyers also need clay modelling tools for shaping, and an acrylic paint set for finishing pieces after baking. New starters should look at our Polymer Clay Starter Kit: clay, tools, instructions and inspiration in one box.

Frequently asked questions

How do you bake Mont Marte polymer clay?

Pre-heat a standard household oven to 110°C / 230°F. Place pieces on baking paper on a tray, bake for 15–20 minutes (the thicker the piece, the longer). Let cool completely before handling. Always follow the on-pack instructions for the specific block size.

Is polymer clay safe for kids?

Mont Marte lists Make n Bake polymer clay as non-toxic. We still recommend an adult does the oven step for under-10s. Wash hands after use.

How long does polymer clay last unbaked?

If kept sealed in its original wrap or an airtight bag, polymer clay stays workable for years. It only sets when you bake it.

Can you paint polymer clay after baking?

Yes, acrylic paint and water-based varnishes both work well on baked polymer clay. Avoid solvent-based finishes (they can react with the clay).

What's the difference between polymer clay and air-dry clay?

Polymer clay needs to be baked in an oven (110°C / 15–20 mins). Air-dry clay sets at room temperature over 24–48 hours. Polymer is harder once set and better for fine detail; air-dry is matte, larger-scale, and easier for kids since there's no oven step.

Do you ship polymer clay NZ-wide?

Yes. Orders are dispatched from Morningside, Auckland in 1–3 working days, then usually arrive in 1–2 working days in Auckland, 1–3 in the North Island and 2–4 in the South Island (add 1–2 for rural). Free shipping over $75 NZD.