Polymer Clay Recipe Controversy

A while ago, I received a letter complaining about my including a recipe for pasta Francesa on The Artful Crafter because of the (optional) ingredient formaldehyde, even though I clearly identified it as optional and provided a link to proper precautions published by the University of California.

"I would really like to see this recipe removed from your site before people use it and end up sick."

I responded that I felt the article does a public service because the recipe is widely used in Latin America where formalin (formaldehyde) can be purchased over the counter.

I feel vindicated by this nice note from Raquel in Uruguay.

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Thanks a lot! I have asked for recipes of pasta Francesa and no one gave one with the exact proportions.

I live in Uruguay and the persons who prepare it don't use formalin but vinegar. I guess it must have a similar formula and it isn't toxic.

I will try and make the substitution because I will be able to use whatever pan from my kitchen.

Thanks a lot again. Your page is just perfect for crafts lovers.

Raquel

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Thank you so much for writing Raquel and for suggesting the substitution of vinegar for the controversial formalin (formaldehyde). Your letter (from Uruguay) really confirms my belief that this website provides a valuable service in educating crafters about the risks and precautions they should be aware of with certain materials.

I am so glad you are finding the site useful!

Thanks to Raquel and our joint experimentation, the Pasta Francesa Recipe now includes vinegar as a substitute for for formaldehyde. The cautionary information on formaldehyde remains.

See Cornstarch Modeling Clay Recipe #3.