Video #235: “Please do show us all how you make ear wires, and please include some variations for the more advanced.” ~Martha-R

As everyone here should know, I am always asking for feedback about what topics to cover in my upcoming video tutorials. This week, as I was reviewing all of the archived comments, one theme jumped out at me… and it was earwires!

I love the look of “special” earwires. Handmade ones show that you really care about the design of your jewelry; they also make earrings much more interesting! This can also be a money-saver (depending on what you normally use.). ~Phaedrakat

Yes.. Yes.. Yes.. please Cindy make a video tutorial. I just spent more money at Michael’s last night buying earwires as I have lots of beads and clay ideas to make earrings with. I have enjoyed starting to make my own findings to match my clay treasures, it makes the whole process complete. ~Sam-M

Learning the wire work for me has become a natural extension of what I do with polymer clay. Unique findings like the ones you create, Cindy, accent the beauty of the beads. Just think how different these beads would look with plain ole store bought (and probably expensive) findings. ~Elizabeth-S

Would love to learn how to make the wires for earrings. Another way to make the earrings all mine. I have always bought the earring wires, so yes please put this on your list of to do items. ~Peggy-B

Love your earrings. I began making earrings last summer and right away got into simple wire projects, so I’m torn about using video time to make earwires. Selfishly I feel, been there, done that – they’re easy to learn on your own. But the unselfish part of me thinks you should if others want to see it because it is so easy and everyone should be able to make them if they wish. It’s really nice not to have to depend on what the stores sell. ~Rose-M

I’m with Rose. Ear wires are easy to do, but you may have a special twist that I don’t use. I love the look of your copper findings. ~Freda-K

As an experienced wire artist I am always interested in Cindy’s presentations. She does a wonderful (and valuable) job of teaching and demonstrating. I look forward to her great earwire tutorials! ~Carolyn-F

I found a catalog and started making my own earwires from it this past week. But, Your tip, Cindy, to use a permanent marker is great. I kept wondering how in the world did they get so round, Just the simplest things. ~Brenda-M

Thank you Cindy for your earwire tutorials. ~Corinne-L

Yes! I would love to learn to make my own earwires. ~Sherry-L

I like the idea of making my own earwires, and vote yes for making different styles of earwires too. ~Lisa-W

So… coming up tomorrow (Friday, December 23, 2011) in the Vol-043-4 members video at the Polymer Clay Tutor Library, I’m going to teach you how to make your own handmade Fancy Rose Earwires to compliment your next earring project.

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Please Note: A general prerequisite for all of my weekly tutorials is that you have a good understanding of the polymer clay basics, including: conditioning clay, using a pasta machine, clay blade and other simple tools, making Skinner Blends or Teardrop Blends, baking clay, as well as sanding and finishing. If you need help in these areas, my Polymer Clay Beginners Course will get you up to speed quickly. There is also plenty of free information on this blog. Use the search box at the top of the page to find articles on specific topics.

Supplies & Tools: Video-043-4 Fancy Rose Ear Wires:

• 20 gauge wire. You will need 1 foot per pair of earrings in any wire or your choice. Make sure to use a lead free wire that is safe for putting in your ears. Good choices are Gold, Gold Filled, Silver, Silver Filled, Niobium, Bronze, Copper or high quality Enamel Coated Wire.
• Flush Cutters (Jewelry Grade).
• Round Nose Pliers (Jewelry Grade).
• Chain Nose Pliers, Flat Nose Pliers or Nylon Pliers (Jewelry Grade).
• Ruler.
• Wire Rounder, Cup Burr, Metal Jewelry File or Nail File.
• Sharpie Pen (large or small), or other round object for forming the earwire.

The full version of the Vol-043-4 Fancy Rose Earwire video will be posted in the Polymer Clay Members Library on Friday December 23, 2011.

Here’s a sneak peak…

Here’s That “Link Below” Referred To at End of the Video

Polymer Clay Tutorials

The full version of the “Fancy Rose Earwires” preview video shown above, is now avail for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Vol-043 Back Issue Pckg.

Customer Feedback About Membership Value:

Cindy, it never ceases to amaze me how you come up with your tricks to make things happen! I found your site a short time after I decided I wanted to learn how to work with polymer clay. I’ve been a teacher my entire adult life, so I know a good teacher when I see one. I also know an outstanding value. I watched your three free videos and immediately signed up for membership. You give us far more for our money than any other site… most single tutorials at other sites cost more than our monthly membership, which gives us 4 tutorials and 4 color recipes each month. After only a few months of using your techniques, I was already selling my polymer clay jewelry. ~Linda-K

I love your course, it is great, really helpful when you are starting out and you make everything look so easy. I love it and all your weekly video back issues too. Money well spent. Many thanks. ~Karen-B

Cindy I just have to tell you that this technique is a wonderful addition to your teaching. Beautiful and it looks easy for a technique that at first seemed intimidating. One other thing I want to say. I just purchased a video from another publisher about resin work. The artist is quite well known, as well as the company. However, the quality of the video was no where comparable to your videos. You and your husband do such a wonderful job producing your videos that it is the standard from which I judge others… and I have yet to find any that don’t come up short! Your instructions are clear, the photography is excellent, and the boxed close ups are so valuable. You do beautiful work, and provide a great value too. I look forward to each Friday! ~Sue-W

The following topics are included in this week’s Polymer Clay Tutor Library, Fancy Rose Ear Wires video tutorial:

• See examples of Earwires and earrings, made using a variety of different metal wires.
• Find out how simple it is to create these custom wire wrapped earring findings for your handmade jewelry projects.
• Learn cool tricks for making these unique ear wires, that look difficult to make but are actually quite easy to do!
• Plus, with some creativity and ingenuity, there are many ways to come up with other unique designs of your own.
  

The full version of the “Fancy Rose Earwires” preview video shown above, is now avail for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Vol-043 Back Issue Pckg.

Video #234: “Would love a tutorial on sculpted poinsettia flowers – three dimensional flowers, not a cane.” ~Cherie-H

Poinsettia’s have long been associated with the Christmas holiday season. According to teleflora.com, this beautiful plant is often referred to as a Christmas Star, symbolizing good cheer and success. “It’s said that this winter flower’s association with Christmas comes from a Mexican legend. The story goes that a child, with no means for a grander gift, gathered humble weeds from the side of the road to place at the church alter on Christmas Eve. As the congregation witnessed a Christmas miracle, the weeds turned into brilliant red and green flowers.”

Hi Cindy – Love all your videos. You have been such a great help to me. Would really love to see you do some poinsettia flowers for Christmas. Thank you for all you do. ~Billie-S

I’d love a tutorial too. I’ve been wanting to try the sculpted poinsettia flower for some time. I love molding flowers but I know Cindy, you will make it so simple! ~Cherie-H

Cindy these are really pretty and just in time for the holiday’s! I hope we’ll see a tutorial for these. I would love to use them as gift tags, and after they could hang them from their Christmas tree. ~Jeanne-C

Hi Cindy, these are simply beautiful and have to agree with Jeanne. I would love to see how you make these in a future tutorial. So many possibilities with what we could make them into, not to mention all of the Christmasy colors that we could play with. ~Patricia-Z

Absolutely beautiful! and I am very intrigued in how you did the backs of the earrings… I think I have an idea, but you always put a very creative and improved spin to all you make, Cindy. ~Maria-C

Seems we’re all still waiting on a Poinsettia Flower tutorial. ~Lisa-W

Well… since there were so many requests… coming up tomorrow (Fri, Dec 16, 2011) in the Vol-043-3 members video at the Polymer Clay Tutor Library, I’ll be teaching you how to make this realistic looking version of the poinsettia flower that can be used for charms, earrings, pendants, ornaments and all kinds of Christmas holiday polymer clay projects.

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Please Note: A general prerequisite for all of my weekly tutorials is that you have a good understanding of the polymer clay basics, including: conditioning clay, using a pasta machine, clay blade and other simple tools, making Skinner Blends or Teardrop Blends, baking clay, as well as sanding and finishing. If you need help in these areas, my Polymer Clay Beginners Course will get you up to speed quickly. There is also plenty of free information on this blog. Use the search box at the top of the page to find articles on specific topics.

Supplies & Tools: Video-043-3 Poinsettia Charms:

• 3 polymer clay colors (green, yellow and petal color of your choice). For the white version I used:

-5001 White Premo Sculpey Polymer Clay.
-5572 Cadmium Yellow Premo Sculpey Polymer Clay.
-5007 Spanish Olive Premo Sculpey Polymer Clay.
-If you use Kato Polyclay, here is a link to some Poinsettia Color Recipes that Sue-F shared last year.

• Wilton Gum Paste Flower Cutter Set. Optional but recommended. You could use an Exacto knife to cut out the shapes by hand instead. I suggest you get the Wilton cutters though, because I have decided to use it for several upcoming polymer clay flower tutorials in the New Year. The set is meant for creating fondant or gum paste flowers for cake decorating. I found my set at Michaels in the Baking aisle. You can also find them on Amazon.
• Wilton Flower Impression Set. Optional but recommended. You could use a real leaf or leaf texture sheet that you have made yourself instead. You should know that this set is coordinated to work with the Flower Cutter Set above and will also be used in future tutorials, so you may want to put these two tool sets on your Christmas list *wink*. Th set can be found at Michaels or on Amazon as well.
• Pasta Machine.
• Clay Blade.
• Water bowl.
• Small art brush (optional).
• Chalk Pastels (optional).
• Pearl-Ex Powders (optional).
• Sculpey Bake & Bond (optional but recommended).
• 20g wire.
• Chain Nose Pliers (jewelry grade).
• Round Nose Pliers (jewelry grade).
• Flush Cutters (jewelry grade).
  

By the way, if you did not already know, those “shopping” links I provided above for the various tools and supplies, are “affiliate” links. That means companies like Amazon pay me a small commission or advertising fee if you click on the links and end up making a purchase at their site.  It’s not a lot, but every bit helps in keeping the cost of my tutorials so low… at only $3.32 per month ;-)

The full version of the Vol-043-3 Poinsettia Charms video will be posted in the Polymer Clay Members Library on Friday December 16, 2011.

Here’s a sneak peak…

Here’s That “Link Below” Referred To at End of the Video
Polymer Clay Tutorials

The full version of the “Poinsettia Charms” preview video shown above, is now avail for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Vol-043 Back Issue Pckg.

Customer Feedback About Membership Value:

Hi Cindy, I wanted to say thank you for helping me with my library account. I also want to thank you for your excellent tutorials. I have been a modelmaker for 18 years but somehow polymer clay flew under the radar (Kid stuff LOL). I have stopped a while ago but came upon an art piece which was made from polymer clay reigniting my model maker passion and since I needed a way of making some extra income I started to do research. Your site cut the time I need to get up and running and recently I sold my first batch of cute ear studs on my market stall. I’m fascinated by the sheer chameleon qualities of this stuff and since I’m easily bored that is a big bonus. Yesterday I build the mother of all buffing tools for my dremel thanks to your tutorial and am buffing the hundreds of beads that I have made over the last two months finally seeing the true beauty of them all and can’t wait to get into necklace making. Kind regards from New Zealand. ~Evelien-G

Cindy’s video’s are the best, nothing can replace them. ~Phaedrakat

Cindy, Your polymer clay fundamentals course was well worth the price. I got some good ideas… like the saran wrap for making beveled edges. This improved my polymer clay buttons immensely! I loved the bonus videos. And I also liked you’re info on mixing colors. Very interesting how different brands mix differently. I’m always trying to think of new ideas, no matter what materials. I found these really striking fabrics and I wanted a way to make them look different from other pillows. Here’s some photos of my work. Thanks. ~Joan-D

The following topics are included in this week’s Polymer Clay Tutor Library, Poinsettia Charms video tutorial:

• See examples of earrings, pendants, and charms done in several different poinsettia color combinations.
• Find out how simple it is to create these realistic looking flower charms, by just following along to the step by step instructional video.
• Learn the reasons why you may just want to look in the baking aisle next time you’re looking for polymer clay tools and supplies.
• Plus, with some creativity and ingenuity, there are many ways to come up with other unique designs of your own.
  

The full version of the “Poinsettia Charms” preview video shown above, is now avail for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Vol-043 Back Issue Pckg.

Video #229: “Metal bezels — so cool, and such a great way to add metal to a clay design.” ~Phaedrakat

You probably have seen many types of stamped polymer clay pendants and charms in the beading magazines by now. They are very popular! Some with inspiring words, little poems or quotes, and others with graphic stamped images. No matter the style, they make awesome focal elements for your handcrafted jewelry designs… and they’re easy (and fun) to make too!

Cindy, what a coincidence! I went to sleep last night thinking about stamping words and names into faux stone clay pendants with the alphabet stamps I received last week, and today you posted about that very thing! Thanks for being so thorough in spreading your knowledge. ~Sue-W

Thank you, Cindy and Doug. I learn so much here! Cannot wait to get more bezels. ~Jocelyn-C

Now my bezels will have that more artistic finished look to them. Thank you both once again. I love it here, I mean what’s not to love. Many Uuuugggs to all. ~Peggy-B

Being fairly new to polymer clay I knew nothing about bezels or incorporating the clay with them. I’m learning so many really useful and interesting things with these excellent tutorials. ~Fran-Y

So… coming up tomorrow (Friday, November 11, 2011) in the Vol-042-2 members video at the Polymer Clay Tutor Library, I’m going to teach you how to make these funky stamped bezels quickly and easily, in whatever style suits you. Plus I’m going to give you a cool tip for making your own glossy colored glazes that can be used with this project and many others!

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Please Note: A general prerequisite for all of my weekly tutorials is that you have a good understanding of the polymer clay basics, including: conditioning clay, using a pasta machine, clay blade and other simple tools, making Skinner Blends or Teardrop Blends, baking clay, as well as sanding and finishing. If you need help in these areas, my Polymer Clay Beginners Course will get you up to speed quickly. There is also plenty of free information on this blog. Use the search box at the top of the page to find articles on specific topics.

Supplies & Tools: Video-042-2 Stamped Polymer Clay Bezels:

• Heat-safe bezel of your choice. I used some metal bezels I got from Terry Morris at EpoxyJewelry, but you can use any metal bezel you have on hand.
• Small amount of polymer clay in the color of your choice. I used about a 1/4 section of: 5038 Peacock Pearl Premo Sculpey Accents Polymer Clay.
• Stamps. There are millions of types of stamps you could use for a project like this. There are mounted and un-mounted rubber stamps, cling stamps, word stamps, silicone molds, alphabet stamps and even letter stamps used for stamping metal. Once you see the examples, you can decide on what types of stamps will suit you best for this project.
• Antiquing Medium. There are many options here as well. You can use an acrylic paint on it’s own, a ready made medium like the discontinued Studio by Sculpey Antiquing Medium, or you can make your own using Golden Mediums – Acrylic Glazing Liquid (Gloss) or (Satin) and an acrylic based paint color of your choice. Michaels now carries the Golden line of paint products (in the fine art section), and many other retail arts and crafts suppliers carry it as well.
• Cornstarch and small fluffy brush for dusting.
• Rubbing Alcohol.
• Weldbond Glue.
• Small paintbrush and clean paper towel.

The full version of the Vol-042-2 Stamped Bezels video will be posted in the Polymer Clay Members Library on Friday November 11th, 2011. But if you would like to see a sneak peek intro clip right now, scroll down the page a bit to the video player below.

Here’s That “Link Below” Referred To at End of the Video
Polymer Clay Tutorials

The full version of the “Stamped Polymer Bezels” preview video shown above, is now available for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Volume-042 Back Issue Package.

Customer Feedback About Membership Value:

Cindy, I absolutely love your tutorials… I took a hands on class about a year ago, and I have honestly learned more from your tutorials than I did in that class. The first video I watched was the Dandelion Ghost Cane Tutorial. I made different versions of the cane, and sold the pieces right away. You are so easy to learn from. Some things I would have never tried on my own, but since watching you I have ventured out of my comfort zone and have made amazing pieces. I have 15 back issues I am ordering, I cant wait to try them all. I have a picture on my inspirational wall of a zebra printed clay bead, I have had so many requests for animal printed beads, I can’t wait to watch that tutorial. Thanks again for your tutorials, they have taught me more than I could learn in a hands on class. Kudos to you for a job well done!!!!!! ~Kelli-N

Hi Cindy, the best day of my jewelry making journey was being smart enough to sign up for your beautiful instructions. Thank you for sharing and being so kind. I do not know when I am due to renew. Please tell me as I never want to not receive your emails and instructions. Love to you and to those you Love. ~Rose-R

Thanks Cindy. As usual, I am very impressed. I truley feel sorry for anyone that does not have your tutorials. They have been so helpful to me. Anyone that likes polymer clay and does not have you, well…..I just feel bad for them. They do not know what they are missing. I, for one, am so glad I found you!! Have a happy day! ~Sherry-W

The following topics are included in this week’s Polymer Clay Tutor Library, Polymer Clay Stamped Bezels video tutorial:

• See examples of stamped bezels in several shapes and styles.
• Discussion of the supplies and techniques needed to make these charming pendants and charms.
• Find out how simple it is to create these designer focal pieces for your handmade jewelry projects.
• Learn cool tricks for making your own Glossy Colored Glazes to use in many of your polymer clay projects, including this one.
• Plus, with some creativity and ingenuity, there are many ways to come up with other unique designs of your own.

The full version of the “Stamped Polymer Bezels” preview video shown above, is now available for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Volume-042 Back Issue Package.
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Video #227: “Cute, I have about a million bugle beads so I’ll have to try this.” ~Silverleaf

This is the perfect time of year for a beaded spider project, since it can be worked into a Halloween theme as well as Christmas. Plus, you’ll be able to use up some of your one-of-a-kind ‘orphan’ polymer clay beads, which is always a good thing.

Now, most people understand how spiders and Halloween go together, but did you know that spider ornaments are also part of a part of a Christmas tradition for many people? There is an old German folk story about the Legend of the Christmas Spider, that I’d love to share with you…

The Christmas Spider Legend

A long time ago in Germany, while a mother was busily cleaning house in preparation for Christmas, the spiders that usually stayed on the living room corner, fled upstairs to the attic to escape her sweeping broom.

From the attic they could hear all the excitement down in the living room, as decorations were being made for when Santa was to come on Christmas Eve and bring gifts for the children. Frantic to see the decorated tree, the spiders slowly crept downstairs for a view. Oh, what a beautiful tree!

In their excitement, they scurried up the trunk and out along each branch. They were filled with happiness as they climbed all through the tree to see the glittering beauty. But alas! By the time they were through climbing all over the tree, it was completely shrouded in strands of their dusty-gray spider webs.

When Santa came, he smiled as he saw how happy the spiders were. However, He knew how heart-broken the mother would be if she saw the tree covered with the dusty webs. So He reached out and touched the webs, blessing them and turning them to silver and gold.

Thus, the custom to have a spider ornament amongst all other decorations with tinsel of gold and silver on the Christmas tree, was born.

This is darling! My brother absolutely loves spiders, I see a project coming on! *grin* – and I always have a little spider placed on my Christmas tree, no matter how small or large the tree is. Been doing it since I was a child. I have even carried around the same little homemade spider for many years now, though the poor little dear has become quite fragile. Maybe this year I will retire him with one of these little beauties *smile*. ~SusanAnn-A

Your spider pendant made out of Polymer Clay is unique and awesome looking. I love it! I will send my friends and family to your site. ~Cara-B

Ok so fabulous!!!! Love the spider…. 3 years ago my kids and I made all the decorations for the tree out of salt and flour dough and paint…. it was fabulous and I love them dearly. It was a time in our lives that the money was very tight but the joy was abundant. It will always be a wonderful memory. ~Melinda-H

So… coming up tomorrow (Friday October 28th 2011) in the Vol-041-4 members video at the Polymer Clay Tutor Library, we will be having some fun with spiders.

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Please Note: A general prerequisite for all of my weekly tutorials is that you have a good understanding of the polymer clay basics, including: conditioning clay, using a pasta machine, clay blade and other simple tools, making Skinner Blends or Teardrop Blends, baking clay, as well as sanding and finishing. If you need help in these areas, my Polymer Clay Beginners Course will get you up to speed quickly. There is also plenty of free information on this blog. Use the search box at the top of the page to find articles on specific topics.

Supplies & Tools: Video-041-4 Beaded Spider Ornament:

• 3 Beads to be used for the Spider’s Body. Abdomen, Middle and Head. For my examples, I used large (10-24mm) round polymer clay beads for the Abdomens, and smaller (4-12mm) beads (sometimes crystals, pearls or other polymer beads) for the Heads and Middles. Once you see the video, you will know the types of beads and sizes you will need for the project.
• Seed Beads and Bugle beads in a variety of sizes. The options for the seed beads will also be clearer when you see the tutorial. For the demo I used 50 size 11/0 black seed beads, 21 size 6/0 purple metallic seed beads, and 20 9mm black iridescent twisted bugle beads, for the spider and the hanger.
• 18″ (40 cm) 24 gauge Wire for the spider. Any type of wire will work. I used Silver Filled in the demo, as well as Bronze and Colored Enameled Copper in the samples.
• 4-5″ (10-12cm) 20 gauge Wire for Hanger.
• Round Nose Pliers (jewelry grade).
• Flush Cutters (jewelry grade).
• Flat or Chain Nose Pliers (jewelry Grade).
• Ruler.
• Ring Mandrel or Tomato Paste Can (optional).

The full version of the Vol-041-4 Beaded Spider Ornament video will be posted in the Polymer Clay Members Library on Friday Oct 28, 2011. But if you would like to see a sneak peek intro clip right now, scroll down the page a bit to the video player below.

Here’s That “Link Below” Referred To at End of the Video
Polymer Clay Tutorials

The full version of the “Beaded Spider” preview video shown above, is now avail for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Volume-041 Back Issue Pckg.

Customer Feedback About Membership Value:

Hi Cindy – Thanks so much for all your wonderful ideas and tips, tricks and techniques. You have been such a great inspiration, I have used a few of your techniques (new to the site) and I can’t even get the pieces priced or packaged before my teenage daughter and her friends want the new pieces. I always know where to look if I can’t find a particular item. Ha Ha. Again I cant wait to watch the rest of your videos. I have alot of back issues to watch yet. Your Site is the best thing since they invented polymer Clay. I cant tell you enough how much more I have learned, watching you, than I did in the actual class I took and I paid ALOT more. I even showed the instructor your site. She was excited to subscribe also. ~Kelli-N

Cindy – The cost of a subscription to your site is money well spent… so don’t let anyone tell you otherwise!!! ~Wendy-B

I really love the way the whole clay community here, shares knowledge and techniques. There are so many drawbacks to the freebies on the net. Often the sound is muffled; important info is left out or you just can’t see properly what is done. I’ve watched some that fail to show what the final result yields! If a small fee saves time; frustration; AND builds a huge library of accessible information, it’s fulfilling an educational need. Not to mention the community that forms because of this commitment to quality. Cindy, your site is also a wonderful way to connect with many other creative people, and offers a great solution to those of us who aren’t able (distance or $$) to attend real life workshops or classes. I think you have such a dedicated following because we sense that dedication in you. ~DJ

The following topics are included in this week’s Polymer Clay Tutor Library, Beaded Spider Ornament video tutorial:

• See examples of beaded spiders in a variety of bead styles.
• Discussion of the tools, materials and techniques needed to make these charming ornaments.
• Find out how simple it is to use up your one-of-a-kind polymer clay beads to make great Halloween and Christmas decorations, as well as cool spider jewelry pieces.
• Learn cool tricks for wiring these beaded spiders so that they not only have a great spider shape, but they are so well put together, that they will be with your family for years to come.
• Plus, with some creativity and ingenuity, there are many ways to come up with other unique designs of your own.

The full version of the “Beaded Spider” preview video shown above, is now avail for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Volume-041 Back Issue Pckg.

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Video #223: “I also hope you are going to give us a few hints on how to use the components that hold and hide all the many wire ends.” ~Tantesherry

Following the Faux Coral Heishi Bead Tute from several weeks ago, several of you requested that I show some tips on how to use Bead Cones in multi-strand jewelry projects.

So… that is exactly what I will do… coming up tomorrow (Friday September 30th 2011) in the Vol-040-4 members video at the Polymer Clay Tutor Library.

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Please Note: A general prerequisite for all of my weekly tutorials is that you have a good understanding of the polymer clay basics, including: conditioning clay, using a pasta machine, clay blade and other simple tools, making Skinner Blends or Teardrop Blends, baking clay, as well as sanding and finishing. If you need help in these areas, my Polymer Clay Beginners Course will get you up to speed quickly. There is also plenty of free information on this blog. Use the search box at the top of the page to find articles on specific topics.

Supplies & Tools: Video-040-4 Using Bead Cones:

• Bead cones. There are tons of varieties, styles, sizes, shapes and metal finishes… of Bead Cones available in the market today. Just go to your favorite bead store or bead supply sites and type in ‘cones’ or ‘bead cones’ and you will see what I mean. You will need to choose the cone appropriate for your particular project, since each design will require a different cone. I usually just buy the cones first and then make a jewelry design that works with the cones, but that is up to you.
• 20 Gauge Wire. I used a 4″ length of half-hard 20 gauge Bronze wire. You can of course use almost any type of wire that you want for this, but I find that the 20ga weight and temper works best for me.
• Wire Flush Cutters (jewelry grade).
• Chain Nose Pliers (jewelry grade).
• Round Nose Pliers (jewelry grade).
• Bead Board (optional but very handy for designing multi strand jewelry pieces.
• Bust (optional – this is handy when seeing how your multi-strand necklace will hang while wearing. Alternatively, you could use a large pickle/mayo jar, or of course your own neck.
• Ruler (optional).
• Chain, Strung Beads, Fibers, Leather Cording, etc for your strands.
• Soft Flex Wire .019 inches and #2 Crimp Tubes for stringing (optional).
• Crimping Tool (optional). My new favorite is the Magical Crimping Tool because it makes a nice round bead shape out of your crimp tube, that doesn’t require a crimp cover. Especially nice when you are working with space restrictions like you are in this particular project

The full version of the Vol-040-4 Using Jewelry Bead Cones video will be posted in the Polymer Clay Members Library on Friday September 30, 2011. But if you would like to see a sneak peek intro clip right now, scroll down the page a bit to the video player below.

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Here’s That “Link Below” Referred To at End of the Video
>> Polymer Clay Tutorials <<

The full version of the “Bead Cones” preview video shown above, is now available for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Volume-040 Back Issue Package.

Customer Feedback About Membership Value:

I am continuously impressed every Friday when a new tutorial comes out! As a complete newbie to polymer clay, I started out by purchasing Cindy’s beginner course. The amount of information jam packed into that course is priceless! I looked around my area for polymer clay courses, and was unable to find one for under $70 for a 3 hour class. By purchasing Cindy’s course, I instantly had access to 2.5 hours of polymer clay instruction, and I could watch in the privacy of my own home! If you’re anything like me, you only retain about 75% of the information the first time around. With Cindy’s course I can re-watch as many times as necessary, and even bring my laptop into my craft area! I then purchased the membership, and continued to be impressed! I have since purchased almost all of the back issue packages! The creativity, quality and ease with which the lessons are presented make working with polymer clay so easy! I’m constantly amazed by what I am able to create! For only $9.95 every 3 months? Definitely well worth the money! Thanks Cindy! ~Melissa-G

I have to say that Cindy’s videos have been the best buy ever, and I have NO regrets about buying them. ~Koolbraider

I’ve only been making beads out of clay for a couple of months, but I feel the videos in your Polymer Clay Beginners Course where just great for someone breaking into the craft. Some of the topics I had already gleaned from the Internet from various sources but it REALLY helped to have a high quality video to SHOW you up close and personal about the topics you discussed. I definitely feel the series is a bargain and would recommend it. I subscribed to your weekly videos and have made beads from many of the tutorials. I look forward to the new video that comes out each week. I’m just beginning to experiment with mixing colors, so I believe the recipe cards will come in really handy in the future as well. – Keep up the fantastic work! ~June-W

The following topics are included in this week’s Polymer Clay Tutor Library, Using Bead Cones with Multi-strand Jewelry Projects video tutorial:

• See examples of bead cones and how they are used to create stunning multi-strand jewelry designs.
• Discussion of the tools, materials and techniques needed to use these useful components in a professionally finished manner.
• Find out how simple it is to use these special findings to make a clean finish for necklaces, bracelets, earrings and tassels that combine many strands of a variety of stringing materials.
• Learn cool tricks for wiring bead cones so that there are no stray ends and everything fits together perfectly and stays that way for many years to come!
• Plus, with some creativity and ingenuity, there are many ways to come up with other unique designs of your own.

The full version of the “Bead Cones” preview video shown above, is now available for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Volume-040 Back Issue Package.

Video Tutorials:
1: Pandora Style Beads
2: Crackled Paint
3: Wire Riveting Intro
4: Dandelion Ghost Cane

Well another month has gone by and the Volume-039 Back Issue Videos have now been added to the Polymer Clay Library. If you missed your chance to see these tutorials as they were released each Friday during the month of August, now is your chance to add them to your collection as a convenient bundled package.

Today’s photo shows thumbnail images for the 4 videos included in this Vol-039 Package:

Video-039-1 Pandora Style Beads: Pandora Beads and others of this style (Caspia, Troll, Chamilia, Trinkets), are very popular today because of their collectibility and interchangeable features. Basically, the way this type of jewelry works, is that you buy the large holed, metal lined beads individually, and then slide them onto the specially designed bracelet, necklace or earring blanks, to get different looks. Sort of the modern version of a charm bracelet. With my simple instructions in this lesson, you’ll be making professional looking Pandora Style beads in no time!

Video-039-2 Crackle Paint Technique: In this tutorial you will learn how to make your own paints that will crackle on polymer clay, at a fraction of the cost compared to store bought brands. Plus you will learn some cool techniques on how to apply these hand made crackle paints on various types of jewelry making projects.

Video-039-3 Wire Riveting Intro: Want to learn how to make gorgeous copper riveted jewelry like the pieces you see in the magazines? It’s easier than you might think! And there are so many possibilities for using this cold connection technique in your jewelry projects. The tools and materials required are pretty basic, so you may have most, if not all of them in your studio already.

Video-039-4 Dandelion Ghost Cane: Did you know that it’s possible to make a polymer clay cane where the design appears to float on the surface of whatever you layer the cane slices onto? It’s called a ghost cane, and in this tutorial you will learn how to make one using the pattern of a dandelion puff. Dandelions are the perfect symbol for making wishes, and what could be better than wearing that magical reminder in a piece of cool dandelion jewelry!

Also included in this Volume-039 back issue package, are the A-Series recipe cards from the Pink Rose Color Palette.

To read feedback from members who have already benefited from the videos and recipes in this Vol-039 back issue package, click here: Pandora Style Beads | Crackle Paint Technique | Wire Riveting Intro | Dandelion Ghost Cane

And, Sneak Peak Preview Clips are available for viewing here: Polymer Clay Tutorials [Videos]

If anyone else would like to add a review for any of the videos or color recipes in Volume-039, I would love to hear from you. Or if you have not yet purchased this back issue and have a question, ask away. In either case, use the comments section below.

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Vid #217: “I’d like to know if you’d do a tutorial on how to use rivets for cold connections in polymer clay.“ ~Anne-R

With the trend toward mixed media jewelry being so Hot, Hot, Hot… it’s about time that I demonstrate how to add cold connection rivets to your polymer clay projects. It’s an easy and fun industrial looking technique, that can be done with any kind of wire.

Besides, several of you have been asking for this…

Will we be seeing a video on riveting soon, I hope? ~Becky-C

I also like the look of the rivets with polymer clay beads. I have looked everywhere I can think of on how to do rivets in pc, but can’t find anything. Sure would like to know how its done. ~Jay-W

Please add me to the list of those requesting a future video on riveting. ~Jocelyn-C

Thank you for your informative videos. They are so easy to follow, and you are speaking so clearly that I almost forgett it isn’t my language! I’m – like many others in this forum – looking forwards to the Fridays and I would love to learn how to riveting too. From Norway, an entusiastic supporter. ~Synnove-O

So… coming up tomorrow (Friday August 19th 2011) in the Vol-039-3 members video at the Polymer Clay Tutor Library, I’ll introduce you all to how to make your own stunning mixed media jewelry pieces using the Wire Riveting Technique.

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Please Note: A general prerequisite for all of my weekly tutorials is that you have a good understanding of the polymer clay basics, including: conditioning clay, using a pasta machine, clay blade and other simple tools, making Skinner Blends or Teardrop Blends, baking clay, as well as sanding and finishing. If you need help in these areas, my Polymer Clay Beginners Course will get you up to speed quickly. There is also plenty of free information on this blog. Use the search box at the top of the page to find articles on specific topics.

Supplies & Tools: Video-039-3 Wire Riveting Introduction:

• Various items to be riveted together. These items will need to have a hole either punched or drilled into them, so keep that in mind. For my demo, I used a UV Resin Coated shape cut out of the Art Sheet Technique; a handmade Niobium Earwire with a small loop in it; and a hammered copper disk. You can layer and attach anything that has a hole in it including polymer clay beads and sheets, metal, filigree, fabric, papers, wood, glass, stone, etc. etc. Let you imagination run wild with this one.
• Heavy gauge soft metal wire. Any soft metal such as copper, silver, gold and aluminum will work. As well, you can use any gauge, although it is the heavier gauges such as 16g,14g,12g, or 10g that are easiest to work with. I use 12g copper electrical wire in the video -  the same as what we used in the Hammered Bookmark Tutorial.
• Vise.
• Ball Pein Hammer (the round ball side of a chasing hammer), or a Riveting Hammer.
• Flush Cutters.
• Regular playing cards… you’ll see in the video (optional ;-).
• Fine-line Sharpie (optional).
• Drill Bit… the same size as your wire’s diameter and made for the material you are drilling.
• Metal Hole Punch (optional). I used a Euro Power Punch made by Eurotools.
• Metal files flat and round (optional). I didn’t need these in my demo, but they come in handy should you need to file the hole in your object a little larger or to smooth any rough edges the metal may have.

The full version of the Vol-039-3 Wire Riveting video will be posted in the Polymer Clay Members Library on Friday Aug 19, 2011. But if you would like to see a sneak peek intro clip right now, scroll down the page a bit to the video player below.

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Here’s That “Link Below” Referred To at End of the Video
>> Polymer Clay Tutorials <<

The full version of the “Wire Riveting Intro” preview video shown above, is now available for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Volume-039 Back Issue Package.

Customer Feedback About Membership Value:

Can’t wait to see more wire work, but love everything you show us. Just wanted you to know have just had a stall at Xmas fayre and sold a few of my clay necklaces. Wow I was so excited. My daughter wore one of my lentil pendants at a body shop party and I couldn’t believe it I got over 20 orders, all thanks to your wonderful videos. So I will be happy whatever you do. Thanks Cindy I could not have done it without you. ~Josie-T

I have had a high interest in wire wrapping and wire jewelry making in general lately. I have looked at tutorials online, but they are written tutorials and I am a visual person, so I learn best by seeing it being done. With that said I would love to see some tutorial’s on wire wrapping and will find time to include it in my day ;) Even if I have to wait until 11pm to do it. Which, I seem to do half the time anyway :) I just wanted to say Thank You Cindy for all the tutorial Video’s. Before watching your tutorial’s I had some supplies but never really did anything with it. You gave me the confidence to start again and keep going :) I love your teaching style and have learned so much from you. I have learned much more from you than any of the books I have. Thanks Again :) ~Jennifer-B

As one of those “midnight-owl” people, I’ve watched many of your lessons fresh off the internet! I agree with everyone about the value of this wire links tutorial … may not be as glamorous, but it allows us to further figure out how to put beads and items together into a final piece. I’m still learning, and it’s great to now be able to add these kinds of tips/details to an idea, knowing that you can make it work. Or choose between a few ways of finishing and pick a method that works best. I couldn’t do that a year ago… have learned sooo much from joining (for less than the cost of a single lesson elsewhere!!). ~DJ

The following topics are included in this week’s Polymer Clay Tutor Library, Riveting Video Intro video tutorial:

• See several examples of pendants and earrings using a variety of polymer clay techniques and mixed media materials riveted together using this cool technique.
• Discussion of the tools, materials and techniques needed to create gorgeous industrial style mixed media jewelry designs.
• Learn the tricks to making the perfect rivet… it’s easier than you may think. But you gotta know the tricks!
• Plus, with some creativity and ingenuity, there are many ways to come up with your own unique Wire Rivet jewelry designs.
  

The full version of the “Wire Riveting Intro” preview video shown above, is now available for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Volume-039 Back Issue Package.

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Video Tutorials:
1: Copper Bookmarks
2: Cupcake Beads
3: Backgroundless Tulip Cane
4: Parrot Tulip Beads

Well another month has gone by and the Volume-038 Back Issue Videos have now been added to the Polymer Clay Library. If you missed your chance to see these tutorials as they were released each Friday during the month of July, now is your chance to add them to your collection as a convenient bundled package.

Today’s photo shows thumbnail images for the 4 videos included in this Vol-038 Package:

Video-038-1 Copper Bookmarks: Simple, unique and oh so functional, these cool bookmarks make a popular item for all ages, genders and personalities. Add one of your hand crafted focal beads, slip them into a book, and you have the perfect Teacher’s Gift, Grad Gift, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Birthday, or Girlfriend gift. It doesn’t matter if the recipient is older or younger, casual or formal. And unlike other jewelry pieces, it doesn’t have to match someone’s outfit… they’re fast and easy to make too. A great way to use up those orphan beads!

Video-038-2 Cupcake Beads: Totally cute and delicious looking, these tiny little polymer clay cupcake and muffin beads are sure to bring a little sweetness into your day. Plus they are so fun to make, you’ll be mixing up batches for every girl in your life!

Video-038-3 Backgroundless Tulip Cane: Originally inspired by the colors and design of a carved wooden tulip, this unique backgroundless tulip cane is perfect for layering on beads and pendants, as well as slicing into adorable little tulip shaped beads. You can even use a section of this cane to create the sculpted tulip beads in the next tutorial. What could be more fun than that!

Video-038-4 Parrot Tulip Beads: Some flowers are so exquisite that they just need to be recreated into beautiful beads. Such is the case with the Parrot Tulip. With it’s striated colors and it’s ruffled petals, Sculpted Parrot Tulip Beads are the perfect focal beads to add to your nature inspired jewelry pieces. Your friends will be impressed when they see them, and only you will know how simple they were to make!

Also included in this Volume-038 back issue package, are the A-Series recipe cards from the Violet Shimmer Color Palette.

To read feedback from members who have already benefited from the videos and recipes in this Vol-038 back issue package, click here: Copper Bookmarks | Cupcake Beads | Backgroundless Tulip Cane | Parrot Tulip Beads

And, Sneak Peak Preview Clips are available for viewing here: Polymer Clay Tutorials [Videos]

If anyone else would like to add a review for any of the videos or color recipes in Volume-038, I would love to hear from you. Or if you have not yet purchased this back issue and have a question, ask away. In either case, use the comments section below.

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Vid #210: “I have two
grandchildren who
absolutely love to read
and will love getting these
hookmarks.” ~Adrienne-L

Sometimes the simplest of ideas end up being the most popular! I can’t tell you how many of these cool hammered bookmarks I’ve made for gifts. Just when I think I have a good number of them made up… POOF! They’re gone!

They are such a unique and functional item that’s popular with all ages, personalities types and genders. Add one of your hand crafted focal beads, slip them into a book, and you have the perfect Teacher’s Gift, Grad Gift, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Birthday, or Girlfriend gift. It doesn’t matter if the recipient is older or younger, casual or formal. And unlike other jewelry pieces, it doesn’t have to match someone’s outfit.

My first clay gifts proved to be encouraging this last Christmas. My family loved the hookmark / bookmarks with charms including a book at the end. ~Joyce-M

Great stocking stuffers for teacher gifts!!! Plus… a nice addition to some of my family’s presents!!! ~Kam-K

The pastors and about a hundred of us at Sierra Community Church are reading together through the Bible in a year. I thought it would be great to give each of the pastors their own personalized (book bead) bookmark. They each got one with their initial on the book. The accent beads I chose for each one, were based on what I felt was closest to depicting who they are. Anyway, Cindy, thank you so much for teaching us both the book bead and hammered copper hookmark techniques. These were not only a blessing for me, but also for all four of my pastors. It was such a delight to make them, and to choose special beads for each one. ~Carolyn-F

My daughter loves to read. This bookmark idea will make a wonderful stocking stuffer for her! Thanks. ~Maria-C

OK now you’ve got my mind going 90 to nothing!!! And me here at work instead of home in my studio! I’ve been making some of those hammered copper bookmarks that you featured a while back and needed something that was more masculine. I can also see where this would be great for doing personalized items… hmmmmm… I THINK I can see how you did these so I’m going to go home and play! ~Arlene-H

Around here we have a Pastor’s Appreciation month and I’ve never known what to give our pastors. Good idea. ~Freda-K

Love Love Love it. This is a perfect gift for me and my Grandkids to make for their teachers at school and church. Thanks again Cindy for another fantastic lesson. You are terrific!!! ~Peggy-B

These bookmarks are a great ways for you guys to use up all of those single “orphan” beads. When you only have one bead left of a certain type, simply turn it into a charm and hang it on a hammered Copper bookmark. Someone you know will love it!

Another great feature to these bookmarks, also known as hookmarks, is their awesome design. They slide wonderfully into your book over the spine and are designed to not fall out easily.

I can tell you from experience, they are also perfect for the sleepy reader. Just keep it in place while you’re reading, it won’t be in the way. And if you should fall asleep mid sentence, you won’t loose your place. I’ve even had the book slide off my bed, with the book mark still holding my place the next morning! ;-)

Although some of you would likely be able to figure out how to make these hookmarks on your own (especially if you have watched some of my previous hammered copper tutorials), there are some important design elements that I want to emphasize.

So coming up tomorrow (Friday July 1st, 2011) in the Vol-038-1 video at the Polymer Clay Library, I’ll show you some cool tips and tricks for making these very giftable Hammered Copper Bookmarks.

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Please Note: A general prerequisite for all of my weekly tutorials is that you have a good understanding of the polymer clay basics, including: conditioning clay, using a pasta machine, clay blade and other simple tools, making Skinner Blends or Teardrop Blends, baking clay, as well as sanding and finishing. If you need help in these areas, my Polymer Clay Beginners Course will get you up to speed quickly. There is also plenty of free information on this blog. Use the search box at the top of the page to find articles on specific topics.

Supplies & Tools: Video-038-1 Copper Book Marks:

• Heavy gauge copper wire (10g to 14g)… anything lighter would be too flimsy.
• Wire cutters.
• Metal file.
• Ruler.
• Chasing hammer (jewelry grade).
• Steel bench block for hammering on.
• Steel wool (grade 00) or fine steel brush.
• Round nose pliers or stepped pliers (jewelry grade).
• Flat nose or chain nose pliers (jewelry grade).
• Polymer clay charms and jump rings if needed. The focal beads and sample techniques shown in this week’s hammered copper book mark tutorial include:

Book Beads
Aurora Beads
Ivy Leaf Charm
Bird House Beads
Dogwood Flower Cane
Butterfly Focal Bead
Faux Stoneware
Robot Cane
Pod Beads

The full version of the Vol-038-1 Copper Book Mark video will be posted in the Polymer Clay Members Library on Friday July 1, 2011. But if you would like to see a sneak peek intro clip right now, scroll down the page a bit to the video player below.

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Here’s That “Link Below” Referred To at End of the Video
>> Polymer Clay Tutorials <<

The full version of the “Copper Bookmarks” preview video shown above, is now available for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Volume-038 Back Issue Package.

Customer Feedback About Membership Value:

Hi Everyone, This Christmas is definitely different than last years. Here I am sitting at my computer 5:30 in the morning with my coffee, anxious to see whats new. This past year has been full of up and downs as most of you know. But looking forward every Friday to Cindy’s wonderful Videos is always the first thing I do. She is such a kind and wonderful teacher. I know she probably does not realize how important what she did for me was. I know it made the difference on whether or not to unpack my clay or give it away. I am happy that I did not give it away. Well things are starting to happen fast here with me, and its due to the support and kindness of Cindy and every single person in this community. So if anybody reading this has the opportunity to become a member please do so. You will not regret it. I am truly lucky to have found this site. So Cindy thanks again and Happy Holidays to everyone. :-) ~Jackie-N

With some of your techniques, there is absolutely no way they would have ever occurred to me! And yet you make it so simple. I’ll say it again: where else can you get 4 video lessons at less than $4 a month??? ~Koolbraider

Hi Cindy. Geesh I’m all blushing and stuff that you used my comments in this article. Thank you. But every word I wrote is the truth. If I was asked right now what tools you would need to get started in polymer clay? I would have to say that besides the pasta machine and some clay, the best tool you could have, and the best value for your money, would be a membership to the Polymer Clay Tutor and your wonderful tutorial library. I can’t say it enough. Where were you 20 years ago when I started with this stuff? LOL. You’ve even taught this “old dog” a few tricks. Gotta love that! XOXO ~Jamie-H

The following topics are included in this week’s Polymer Clay Tutor Library, Copper Bookmarks video tutorial:

• See several examples of bookmarks using many different polymer clay beads and charms.
• Discussion of the tools, materials and techniques needed to create these funky and functional hook shaped book marks.
• Learn the tricks and design elements for making a copper bookmark that not only looks good, but functions well too.
• Plus, with some creativity and ingenuity, there are many ways to come up with your own unique bookmark designs using your own stunning polymer clay charms and beads.

The full version of the “Copper Bookmarks” preview video shown above, is now available for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Volume-038 Back Issue Package.

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Video Tutorials:
1: Faux Metal Mokume;
2: Rolled Mokume Gane;
3: Wire Leaf Charm;
4: Add Clay to Leaf Charms:

Well another month has gone by and the Volume-036 Back Issue Videos have now been added to the Polymer Clay Library. If you missed your chance to see these tutorials as they were released each Friday during the month of May, now is your chance to add them to your collection as a convenient bundled package.

Today’s photo shows thumbnail images for the 4 videos included in this Vol-036 Package:

Video-036-1 Faux Metal Mokume Gane: With all the new metallic colors being launched in the Premo Accents line of polymer clay this year, now is the perfect time to create a more traditional looking Faux Metal Mokume Gane technique. Designed to mimic a wood grain pattern in layers of different metals, you can get a similar effect by using polymer clay in metallic colors. I think you are going to be thrilled with how easy and great looking this cool polymer clay technique really is!

Video-036-2 Rolled Mokume Gane: Since there is always more than one way to do something, especially with polymer clay, this tutorial shows you yet another version of the faux mokume gane technique. Be prepared to have a lot of fun with this one!

Video-036-3 Wire Leaf Charm: Here is a neat little jewelry finding you can make… that has big potential!  In this tutorial I’ll be demonstrating how to make the wire component for a simple leaf charm design. Then in the next Vol-036-4 tutorial, I will take the lesson further by showing how you can add polymer clay to create some fabulous mixed media charms, pendants and other jewelry elements.

Video-036-4 Add Clay to Leaf Charms: In the previous Vol-036-e tutorial, I demonstrated how to create your own wire leaf charms that can be used as components for your polymer clay jewelry projects. As a follow up, in this tutorial I show how to add polymer clay to the wire charms… in a bunch of different and very creative ways!

Also included in this Volume-036 back issue package, are the A-Series recipe cards from the Desert Oasis Palette.

To read feedback from members who have already benefited from the videos and recipes in this Vol-036 back issue package, click here: Faux Metal Mokume | Rolled Mokume Gane | Wire Leaf Charm | Add Clay to Leaf Charms

And, Sneak Peak Preview Clips are available for viewing here: Polymer Clay Tutorials [Videos]

If anyone else would like to add a review for any of the videos or color recipes in Volume-036, I would love to hear from you. Or if you have not yet purchased this back issue and have a question, ask away. In either case, use the comments section below.

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