(no subject)

[oxym0ronic.livejournal.com]

Hey guys, I just posted a few posts back asking about Fimo clay. Thanks for everyone's help! It helped me a lot. I just made my first beads and charms and I'm ready to bake them. Just a few more questions...hope you all don't mind!

I'm just worried about this toxic issue. How can I tell while I'm watching the beads bake to make sure they're not being overbaked? I have very few, and they're very small so do they still need to be baked at 265 degrees for 30 minutes? How can I tell after I take them out if they're overbaked/underbaked/perfect? What happens if I burn the clay? What can I do to eliminate the dangers of the toxic fumes?

Thanks in advance! Can't wait to bake these. :)

P.S. What can I apply to the finished, baked clay pieces to add some shine? I used to use clear nail polish but I would like something that is specifically meant for finished clay, but still look nice and shiny like the nail polish. Thanks!