Haven't been back to this
thread in a long while....but thought I'd jump in here about working with polymer clay.....if upu can use a hot glue gun....tear little strips of the aluminum foil and secure to the wires with hot glue...it won't burn at the temps that polymer bakes at. Haven't gone back far enough to look at the pics....but I read mention of some ears.....metal mesh is available at most craft stores....cut pieces to the shape....and a smaller size than you want you finished product...cover with the foil and hot glue....thin layer....and put your clay over the top.
About tools....dental tools...like the hygienist uses to scrape and clean your teeth are excellent and are much smaller than any commercial sculpting tools. You may even have a dentist who is willing to give you old tools. I also used tools for ceramics that I took a grinding stone and my dremel to....to make tools that were to my preference.
going back in posts to find your pics....if you think I can be of any help....just let me know
edit: the fingers in all my pieces had a wire armature running
through them....it just takes slow, careful moving of the clay with a small smooth tool....instead of a sandwich of clay...just roll a single piece around the wire....carefully smooth seam shut...and work excess clay to the end, where you can cut it off and then seal the tiny opening left by the wire