Tips Video 04 - Extruder Cleaning and Care Tip

[@darlaboyle1074]

Thanks for sharing this. Yours is the only video I've seen so far that explains how to clean an extruder.

[@PatriciaBearden]

You're welcome! So glad I could help!

[@jessicajessiashman8556]

Wow! We just got a new extruder and I've been scared to use it because I didn't know how to clean it. Now I do! Thank you very much!

[@PatriciaBearden]

I am so glad I am able to help! Thank you for watching!

[@frankcosta6592]

Thanks, Patricia! This also works on the Walnut Hollow I have, FYI!

[@PatriciaBearden]

Thanks for the info I just added that on to the description.

[@janmontarsi.-blendangles7960]

The density and softness of your clay has more to do with how easy it extrudes versus how much oil you put on the threaded rod. A little oil is beneficial, but these inexpensive extruders are not made for polymer clay. They’re made for Play-Doh and fondant, which is very soft, and easy to push out unfortunately, when you’re trying to do polymer clay, the tendency is to twist the threaded rod back-and-forth as your turning it, which is why you scraping off all the threads eventually, they will all be gone, and it won’t work, some more tips for using extruders kzbin.info/www/bejne/foTQe3l_pLWAiLMsi=69kPG1fBUaMllhii

[@PatriciaBearden]

Actually yes they are more for cake frosting "fondant" than anything. But yes they can be used for clay and at the price of around $8.00 you really can't beat it for what you get. I take very good care of mine, such as oiling it down when it needs it and cleaning the threads! Once I oiled it, it worked perfectly I haven't had an issue since, I haven't had to oil yet since and I use it a lot. Yes I agree it would work better with a softer clay, but then if your clay is too soft you're not going to get the outcome you want. And as far as extruders go I was not talking about expensive extruders. I was talking about the one sitting right in front of me. But I really don't think it matters what extruder you have? You're still going to have to keep up maintenance on it. Yes you most likely will have to buy a new one, but I've had mine over 5 years so far. Thanks for dropping the link to your tutorial in my box. I'm sure everyone can get more info if we just continue to share info in the polymer clay community! I'm only here to help out where I can. This came to my attention with my issue and thought it'd make a good tip tutorial. Not everyone can afford top of the line equipment to use with their polymer clay and I'm one of them.

[@janmontarsi.-blendangles7960]

@@PatriciaBearden I have them all, and there’s also a difference between an actual Makins and the knock off Internet ones that don’t have the name on it. But if you take care of them, they can last you another thing you can get is they sell adapters that you can actually put on the handle and use a drill with that way you’re not bending the rod side as you’re turning is just a natural hand movement and the way the threads get worn down. And one other tip I’ll share don’t ever turn the handle all the way to the end the little brass plunger with the O-ring on it can’t take the pressure of trying to squeeze it against the other metal tap. Stop a little short it’ll keep you from breaking that brass wheel off the end of the threaded rod that’s usually the first thing that breaks.