Video #242: “Cindy I would like to make my polymer clay look like different kinds of wood. Do you have any tutorials for oak, walnut, cherry, maple?” ~Sandra-H

As promised in the Celtic Heart Tutorial from last week, the next lesson in our February series will show you how to make a faux wood cane.

Polymer clay is awesome at imitating different materials, and does an especially good job of mimicking wood and wood grains. Because of the unlimited colors and layering possibilities of polymer clay, with a little planning, you can capture the look of any species and finish of wood that you want.

In the examples I show you a blonde wood version of a faux wood cane, which I will teach you how to create in this tutorial. But I also show examples of darker woods such Faux Oak and Faux Black Walnut varieties. Once you learn the techniques of making a faux wood cane, you can go on to experiment with different color and grain patterns of your own, making the options unlimited!

So… coming up tomorrow (Friday, Feb 10, 2012) in the Vol-045-2 members video at the Polymer Clay Tutor Library, I will demonstrate how to make a faux wood cane that you can use to cover (laminate) over your polymer clay projects like the Celtic Knot Heart Pendant. It will make the piece look like it was carved carved from real wood!

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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-045-2 Faux Wood Cane:

• 5101 Pearl Premo Sculpey Accents Polymer Clay
• 5303 Gold Premo Sculpey Accents Polymer Clay
• 5093 Ecru Premo Sculpey Polymer Clay
• 5527 White Translucent Premo Accents Sculpey Polymer Clay
• Pasta Machine
• Clay Blade

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 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-045-2 Faux Wood Cane video will be posted in the Polymer Clay Members Library on Friday, February 10, 2012.

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 Faux Wood Cane preview video shown above, is included in Vol-045 at the Polymer Clay Library [Click Link For More Info On How To Become a Member]. The membership price works out to $3.32 per month (plus a one-time account setup fee)…

Customer Feedback About Membership Value:

Hi Cindy & Doug, I hope you had a nice Christmas and New Years. I first want to say YOU made it possible for us to have a Christmas this year!!!! You are probably wondering HHMMM how did I do that??? Right ??? Here it goes. (Sorry I am not an author so please bare with my story telling)

My husband has worked at Polaris Industries for 22 years, about the 12th of December, he was told his employment would end on Friday the 16th of December. Now we knew he would be losing his job, Polaris has moved the Osceola, WI Mfg Plant to Monterrey, Mexico, we were told that since Jon (my husband) had helped with the move (going to Mexico every other week for six months), he would retain employment until March 2012.

When you are told you were going to have a regular paycheck until March, why worry? Right? We had a financial plan in place to start in March 2012, but needless to say, it didn’t work out the way we had planned.

Now he started collecting unemployment December 29th and had a one week paycheck the week of Christmas, of course insurance premiums and 401K payments had to be taken out which left a whopping $290.00 – of that half of the house payment was taken out.

So Christmas shopping that I always wait until the last minute to do, was not going to happen this year. We sat down with the kids (we have 2 teenagers), and explained we would not be exchanging gifts this year and that Christmas is not about what’s under the tree but who is around the tree.

Both of them said they understood and decided that we should take there old iPods and MP3 players and bring them to a homeless shelter for the kids who really didn’t have anything. I was the proudest mom in the world what great kids I have. Still I could tell they were a little disappointed about Christmas.

I should probably mention that I am a stay at home mom, I have just started selling my clay jewelry at Art and Craft Fairs about four months ago. I had 2 craft fairs booked one on December 17 and one on December 18.

This is where you come in – I made a few (50) Christmas Spiders I had sold 2 or 3 but not many up until the last 2 shows before Christmas. Cindy I sold everyone of them for $20 each. I had people placing orders for these cute little spiders.

I had to watch your video four times to be able to write the story down so everyone could have a copy with the spider. You have to know the story or the spider is just a spider, instead of a Christmas Spider.

I made enough money to cover my costs and still surprise our kids for Christmas. And if I hadn’t watched your video explaining the story and showing how to make them, I would not have made enough for a truly miraculous Christmas.

To think I almost didn’t watch that video because I am not that into Halloween, and I truly thought they were Halloween Spiders. What a wonderful surprise I had when I did finally watch the video.

You can bet that I sometimes wait up late on Thursday nights to see what the next tutorial will be about. I don’t even wait until the coffee is done brewing on Friday (if I fall asleep on Thursday night) to watch the newest creation.

I forgot to tell you we did take the Ipods and MP3 players to the homeless shelter, but we also picked up some new gifts for the children at the shelter. This was the best Christmas we ever had and it was just one of your awesome tutorials that made it happen.

Thanks so much for all you do and sharing your wonderful knowledge and ideas with the world Cindy and Doug. You honestly have touched more than a few hearts in “smalltown” WI.

Now for the main reason I wanted to contact you… please could you send an email to let me know when my membership fees will be due? I want to make sure there is money in the right account at the right time. I can’t afford to miss even one tutorial. LOL. Thanks again for everything.

~Kelli-N

The following topics are included in this week’s Polymer Clay Tutor Library, Faux Wood Cane video tutorial:

• See examples of jewelry, sculpture and functional pieces with a faux wood grain finish.
• Find out how simple it is to create this realistic looking cane, using a few layering and rolling techniques.
• Plus, with some creativity and ingenuity, there are many ways to come up with other unique wood grain copies of your own.
  

For more information about how to receive the full versions of these weekly polymer clay tutorial videos, for the very minimal cost of just $3.32 per month (plus a small setup fee to cover admin costs), click here: Polymer Clay Library

Video #233: “Cindy I really want to thank you for your generosity in promoting other artists and their styles.” ~Beverly-L

In today’s post, I’m going to talk about the exciting conclusion (Part 2 follow up) of the Pointillist Cane Project. In Part 1 we extruded all of the pieces. And now this week it’s time to put everything together.

As mentioned in last week’s video, Doug and I had the pleasure of entertaining Pointalism Artist Ron (Rogest) Steven, in our home during an event we hosted for the “Spirit Bears in the City” public art campaign. Ron is a delightful character with a huge passion for art, teaching and saving marine life.

If you would like to see a fun video of Ron in action, here he is at Scuba trade show in Orlando Florida, raising awareness for the Wounded Warrior Project. It’s a worthy foundation that provides aid to injured members of the armed forces.

Cindy… it’s lovely that you show other artist’s work, as well. So many ways to inspire us! And teach us, of course. Your tutorials and projects are wonderful, your teaching – outstanding. Thanks so much for all you do! ~Phaedrakat

Coming up tomorrow (Friday, December 9, 2011) in the Vol-043-2 members video at the Polymer Clay Tutor Library, you will be able to see Part 2 of my beginner/intermediate level, Snowy Tree Cane project. I hope you enjoy it.

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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-043-2 Snowy Tree Cane:

• 1/2 package each of the following polymer clay colors:

- 5010 Navy Premo Sculpey Polymer Clay

- 5001 White Premo Sculpey Polymer Clay

- 5505 Turquoise Premo Sculpey Polymer Clay

- 5038 Peacock Pearl Premo Accents Polymer Clay

• Makins’ Professional Ultimate Clay Extruder and 2mm round hole die.
• Pasta Machine.
• Clay Blade.
• Ruler.
• Knitting Needle, Etch ‘n Pearl Tool or Round Dowel
  

The full version of the Vol-043-2 Snowy Tree Cane tutorial will be posted in the Polymer Clay Members Library on Friday December 9, 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 “Snowy Tree Cane” 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… Like many other responses that I have read here, I, too, am very thankful for your tutorials that you and Doug so faithfully bring us every week. Also I’ve noticed how quickly you respond to any questions we email you with. It’s like having our direct link to a movie star who actually responds personally to her fan club! LOL. I also want to thank you for bringing such joy into the lives of so many of us. I had to retire early due to a disability that keeps me close to home and fairly physically inactive. I’ve been play/claying for several years and have never seen any site that teaches so much sooo economically as yours does. Anyone who is living off of disability benefits will tell you that funds are tight but the INVESTMENT I make with you each month is considered almost a necessity for sanity for me. Keep up the outstanding work you and your husband produce each week! Sincerely. ~Maria-K

I realise now why I love your beadvideo site so much: it’s because you provide ‘quality time’ which is one of my ‘love languages’ and so I can never get enough of it. For a very modest sum I can look forward to you giving me 10 minutes of quality time every Friday! Thanks Cindy, thanks again and again! FYI: ‘Quality Time’ is one of the 5 ‘love languages’ (LL). The other four are ‘acts of service’, ‘touch’, ‘words of affirmation’ and ‘gifts’. When someone shares your LL it creates a big rapport. So, for example, if you’re a ‘touch’ person it will feel natural to hug people, but if this isn’t your LL you’ll probably pull away and feel awkward. I suspect ‘quality time’ is one of Cindy’s, and another is probably ‘acts of service’ as she takes such trouble doing things for people – and likely loves doing it too! It’s often found that partners share some of the same LL so it’s likely Doug shares these traits too! ~Marion-R

Well I was too ill to make Thanksgiving with my family but I am still very thankful for many many things. One of them is everything I have received from Cindy and Doug. WOW – 231 tutorials – I didn’t realize I had watched that many tutorials. Can you imagine what these would of cost us anywhere else. Not only is Cindy very gifted with this artistic blessing but the generosity that comes from the Lietz family is without a doubt something beyond spectacular. This entire family has been blessed in so many ways. No greedy people in this family. Cindy has priced her tutes so anyone can afford them. If you want to learn this is the place to come. There is a clay family here to join and everyone in it is willing to help whenever they can. I think some of Cindy has rubbed off onto all of us. Now I call that a blessing and a half. ~Peggy-B

The following topics are included in this week’s Polymer Clay Tutor Library, Snowy Tree Cane video tutorial:

• See examples of canes, beads, earrings, and several pendants using this unique style of a polymer clay “pointallist” cane.
• Find out how simple it is to create components for complicated patterns, by just following along to the step by step instructional video.
• Learn the reasons why color contrast is so important to a cane design of this kind.
• How to build a complicated looking yet simple to make, pointillism style cane, using tiny extruded clay pieces.
• 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 “Snowy Tree Cane” preview video shown above, is now avail for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Vol-043 Back Issue Pckg.

Video #232: “Cindy, have you ever thought of doing a landscape cane tutorial? I would love to see how YOU do it!” ~Tina-A

Over the last week or so, most of the communities here on British Columbia’s West Coast, received their first dusting of snow… so it seemed like perfect timing to share my new Snowy Tree Cane tutorial with all of you.

The idea for this project was also inspired by a lovely art card that’s been sitting on my desk for years now. It depicts a fantasy winter scene with snow covered trees, a dark winter sky, ocean waves and a sea turtle… all done in the pointillist style by artist Ron Steven, aka Rogest.

I had the pleasure of meeting Ron a few years back when we hosted an open house showing of my Kidart Spirit Bear Sculpture. Ron attended because he also works with artistic children, and was interested in learning more about our project. He is such an interesting man, who left corporate life years ago, to pursue his love of tropical scuba diving and art.

Using paint mixed with sand to make tiny dots in the pointillist style, much of Roget’s work is inspired by the sea. And many of his paintings have an Australian Aboriginal look to them.

Seeing that art card everyday on my desk… along with the recent snow that blanketed our front yard… and reading the requests from some of you asking me to teach a landscape cane… all contributed to the inspiration for this week’s Snowy Tree Cane Tutorial.

Hi Cindy, I’m relatively new here and am thoroughly enjoying it. I have a request, or maybe you might have it here somewhere. I tried searching but couldn’t find any tutorial or anything on it, but I would love to see a tutorial on landscape canes, like the ocean and clouds and things. Warmly. ~Karen-H

I would be VERY interested in landscape canes! ~Suzanne-C

I’m new here but I am at an intermediate level. Although I am working through your beginners course to break some of my bad habits and learn new skills. I would love to see a landscape cane. I can make them but they are pretty lame! Thanks again. ~Kathleen-C

Also Cindy to your long list of wanted tutes. I saw a beautiful I think they call them landscape canes. Is this something you could offer us someday. Please and Thank you. ~Peggy-B

So… coming up tomorrow (Friday, December 2, 2011) in the Vol-043-1 members video at the Polymer Clay Tutor Library, I’ll be teaching Part 1 of this very cool Pointillist style, Snowy Tree Cane 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-043-1 Snowy Tree Cane Pt-1:

• 1/2 package each of the following polymer clay colors:

- 5010 Navy Premo Sculpey Polymer Clay

- 5001 White Premo Sculpey Polymer Clay

- 5505 Turquoise Premo Sculpey Polymer Clay

- 5038 Peacock Pearl Premo Accents Polymer Clay

• Makins’ Professional Ultimate Clay Extruder and 2mm round hole die.
• Pasta Machine.
• Clay Blade.
• Ruler.
• Knitting Needle, Etch ‘n Pearl Tool or Round Dowel
  

The full version of the Vol-043-1 Snowy Tree Cane Pt-1 video will be posted in the Polymer Clay Members Library on Friday December 2, 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 “Snowy Tree Cane” 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:

One thing I really like about all your designs is that we can substitute other colors for different seasons of the year. I am going to try making the Spliced Cane in winter colors. Though about dark reds to simulate a Poinsettia. It would look great in poppy colors too. You have good judgment on how much of any theme to share with us. You also provide us videos on things we cannot find elsewhere. ~Anna-S

Grew up immersed in books… picture books, reference books, how to and craft books, history…you name it. Followed the clay wagon now for 20 years, and in the beginning there were a couple of pamphlets and a great book by Nan Roche. Then Carol DuVal. Then more polymer clay books than I could ever shake a stick at. Same with VHS and CD instructions, and now the web is loaded with tuts and tutors. Would I willingly give back a single one? No way. More for the historical trigger of the memories and skills learned and applied while I read or watched. However, just based on what I have seen hear with my own eyes, this is the best site for the money to improve your polymer skills. Cindy’s videos are edited for all essential information, as is her blog, her tweets, and her emails, lol. She’s a busy lady, and doesn’t inundate you with information, just culls the best. If you master the skills she’s taught so far (and you have to work at it to get the planning, attention to detail and finishing down) your work is marketable. It’s an exceptional deal. Plus you get a great network of folks here who cheer you on and inspire you. ~Jocelyn-C

I want to chime in here and say I think $3 to $4 a month for the extremely high quality videos, the personalized help, the recipe cards, free tuts, the 24/7 access, and the list goes on.. is a bargain! All the work you and Doug do that saves US money is worth way more than that. I’m always singing your praises and telling people this is where I get my information and learn the things I do. ~Tanya-L

The following topics are included in this week’s Polymer Clay Tutor Library, Snowy Tree Cane Part-1 video tutorial:

• See examples of canes, beads, earrings, and several pendants using this unique style of polymer clay cane.
• Find out how simple it is to create the components for this complicated pattern, by just following along to the step by step instructional video.
• Learn the reasons why color contrast is so important to a cane design of this kind.
• 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 “Snowy Tree Cane” preview video shown above, is now avail for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Vol-043 Back Issue Pckg.

Video #225: “The skull bead is so rock star! :) Very inspiring, thanks!” ~Zarah

Ahoy Ye Landubbin Scallywags… Har it be… What Ye all bin lustin’ fer… Part 2 of T’ Famous Pirate Skull and Crossbones Cane!! And from t’ words of sum of Ye… Yer be liking what be hear’n so far!

Compliments on the pirate bead. Have I told you it’s one of the best beads ever? It’s a bead so very you. Thanks for sharing it with us. ~Squash

Cindy, the teams at my daughter’s high school are the Pirates. These skull and crossbone beads would be a great fund raiser! Thanks. ~Jody-G

We just got our very first Harley-Davidson and I think these skull and crossbone beads made with the pirate cane will go soooo well with our leathers. ~Lisa-W

So… without further ado, coming up tomorrow (Friday October 14th 2011) in the Vol-041-2 members video at the Polymer Clay Tutor Library, I will be showing how to combine all the components you made last week, into a finished Pirate Skull and Cross Bones Cane… just in time for Halloween.

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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-041-2 Pirate Cane (Part 2):

• Cane components made in the previous tutorial Pirate Cane (Part 1).
• 1 – 2 blocks 5001 White Premo Sculpey Polymer clay for background color.
• Pasta Machine.
• Acrylic Roller.
• Clay Blade.
• Knitting Needle, Etch and Pearl Tool or small metal dowel.

The full version of the Vol-041-2 Pirate Cane (Pt 2) video will be posted in the Polymer Clay Members Library on Friday Oct 7, 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 “Pirate Cane” preview video shown above, is now available for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Volume-041 Back Issue Pckg.

Customer Feedback About Membership Value:

Hi everyone. When I first subscribed, back at the end of Volume 36, I was disappointed in the initial offerings (perhaps you’ll remember our emails, Cindy?). I wanted to give PC Tutor a fair shot, though, so decided to give it one quarter to see what happened. Well, I am happy to say I couldn’t have been more wrong. I’m having a great time with PC Tutor. Cindy, I have become a bona fide admirer of yours. I love the videos. They are filled with tips and tricks and I love the happy manner in which they are delivered. I’m also very happy with the color recipes. Frankly, the only thing missing is… I want more! I see myself being a follower of PC Tutor for a long time to come, hooray. ~Angela-M

Here Here!! Cindy, your site is an invaluable resource for us passionate clayers! Thanks so much for all you do for us. EVERY month is a treasure. ~Dawn-B

Me three! Thanks so much, Lietz’s! The Polymer Clay Tutor, aka our beloved Cindy, came up with super-duper material this month. Four tutes and four color recipes for less than the price of a happy meal! (at least I think… haven’t actually bought one lately, LOL…) ~Phaedrakat

The following topics are included in this week’s Polymer Clay Tutor Library, Pirate Cane Part 2 video tutorial:

• See examples of canes, beads and jewelry projects using this super cool Pirate Cane Design.
• Discussion of the tools, supplies and techniques needed to create this intermediate level cane.
• Find out how simple it is to make this cool picture cane, if you just follow the step by step instructions.
• Find out why this is such a forgiving cane, even if this is your first picture cane. With this cane, a little distortion only makes it better!
• 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 “Pirate Cane” preview video shown above, is now available for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Volume-041 Back Issue Pckg.

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Video #224: “For a future tutorial, I would love to see your famous pirate cane… arrrhh!” ~DJ

Ahoy Matey’s!!! Tis finally the hour, t’ be learnin’ me Pirate Cane!

So all ye scallywags who have be beggin’ fer ’tis tutorial can be grog-filled ‘n titulation that ye have finally got what ye asked fer!

OK, so I missed the deadline for getting this tutorial published in time for the official Talk Like A Pirate Day… but at least we made it in time for Halloween (though personally, pirate stuff works for me at anytime of the year).

PLEASE, PLEASE PLEASE CINDY when are we going to have a tute on your great PIRATE CANE? These would be just great for Halloween and you DID say you would teach us soon. ~Elaine-F

OOOOOooooo, I second the motion on a Pirate Bead Tutorial!! I’ve been dying to learn Cindy’s technique. I tried it myself and had sooooo much scrap clay by the time I finished. So, *begging nicely* Please, Please, Please Cindy, teach us the Pirate Bead Cane for Halloween. ~Lisa-W

With Halloween just around the corner I was wondering Cindy if you were going to teach us how to do the Pirate crossbones beads like you made for your lanyard? I loved it and would love to know how to do it. You talked about making a tut for it. Please, Please, Please?! Thanks. ~Kerri-C

This Pirate Cane is a signature cane for me. I never have been able to keep anything I’ve made with the pirate cane for very long. You may remember the story from a ways back, of my skull and crossbones beaded lanyard that I used for carrying my YMCA Membership Card… it sold right off my neck when I was taking a class there.

And if you’ve been around the blog for awhile, you may also remember this cool Pirate Beaded Bracelet and this Pirate Hemp Bracelet.

So… coming up tomorrow (Friday October 7th 2011) in the Vol-041-1 members video at the Polymer Clay Tutor Library, I will be showing you how to make all the components of this quirky polymer clay Pirate Cane (Part 1). And in next week’s Part 2 (October 14th 2011), I’ll demonstrate how to put the whole thing together. Ye goin’ lust ’tis scurvy pirate cane!!!

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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-041-1 Pirate Cane Part 1:

• Polymer clay in the following colors:
  - 5001 White Premo Sculpey
  - 5042 Black Premo Sculpey
  - 5392 Raw Sienna Premo Sculpey
  
• Pasta Machine
• Acrylic Roller
• Clay Blade
• Ruler
  

Side Note: Not needed for the tutorial, but used in the bracelet that I show in the tute, is a gorgeous Handmade Textured and Patina Copper Clasp made by Melinda Orr of orrtec.etsy.com. If you’re looking for unique findings and metal supplies, do check her site out. Her stuff is gorgeous!

 The full version of the Vol-041-1 Pirate Cane Part 1 video will be posted in the Polymer Clay Members Library on Friday October 7, 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 “Pirate Cane” preview video shown above, is now available for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Volume-041 Back Issue Pckg.

Customer Feedback About Membership Value:

I am always amazed at how you even simplify what on first glance seems to be a simple process. This is why you make the mistakes so I don’t have to… so worth the modest fee of your site. Thanks for so many great tutorials. It’s the high point of my weekend! ~Sue-W

I absolutely agree. I’m a teacher too and I can recognize good teaching. Cindy is the best teacher. I’ve watched a lot of other jewelry videos and read books but it makes a big difference watching Cindy. You can pause the video and actually go along with her. She makes things so simple and easy you simply get encouraged and motivated to try it out . And Doug’s photos are amazing – the clarity and angles. It’s certainly worth every cent and the cost is a real deal. I would encourage anyone to definitely sign on and buy the membership. I have bought the whole collection and I’m so glad I did. ~Cheryl-H

Hi all, I’m a bit of a newbie … so I just purchased some back issues … if there are any other newbies out there – seriously consider doing this – just when I think I know when the video is going Cindy does something completely different than I thought she would and it’s sooo much easier and it’s like – well duh. ~Desiree-J

The following topics are included in this week’s Polymer Clay Tutor Library, Halloween Pirate Cane Part 1 video tutorial:

• See examples of canes, beads and jewelry projects using this super cool Pirate Cane Design.
• Discussion of the tools, supplies and techniques needed to create this intermediate level cane.
• Find out how simple it is to make this cool picture cane, if you just follow the step by step instructions.
• Find out why this is such a forgiving cane, even if this is your first picture cane. With this cane, a little distortion only makes it better!
• 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 “Pirate Cane” preview video shown above, is now available for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Volume-041 Back Issue Pckg.

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Video #220: “I get totally lost when I’m claying, time has no meaning.” ~Polyanya

Some designs are just so darn beautiful that they stand the test of time. Such is the case with Ikat Fabric. Some experts believe Ikat Textiles have been around since the 6th century, and still to this day they are very popular in fashion and home decor.

In fact just this last week I saw a gorgeous Ikat Design Pillow on the Crate and Barrel site (a North American Home Decor Store), proving this ancient style continues to have relevance even in our modern world.

The following gallery exhibition video shows some gorgeous examples of Ikat Textile Artworks and contains information  about the history and background of this ancient art form.

Over the years, many polymer clay artists have been mimicking Ikat designs in their cane works of art. So, when I noticed a recent resurgence of Ikat patterns in the magazines and online, I was inspired to teach you all how to create your own Ikat patterns in polymer clay.

But rather than re-teaching what has already been demonstrated by other instructors, I wanted to put my own personal spin on the idea and take this technique further. With some experimenting I was able to create a repeating diamond pattern which incorporates the characteristic woven Ikat look. Although the pattern looks complex, it is actually quite easy to do… making it the perfect candidate for a whole new kind of Ikat Cane Tutorial. I hope you enjoy it!

Coming up tomorrow (Friday September 9th 2011) in the Vol-040-1 members video at the Polymer Clay Tutor Library, I will be demonstrating how to create your own Ikat inspired polymer clay, in an intricate diamond pattern that is surprisingly simple to create.

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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-040-1 Diamond Pattern Ikat Cane:

• Polymer clay in at least 2 colors. I used 1/2 section (1/8th pack) of the following Premo Colors:

– 5026 Pomegranate Premo Sculpey
– 5093 Ecru Premo Sculpey
– 5001 White Premo Sculpey

• Pasta Machine.
• Acrylic Roller (optional).
• Clay blade.
• Ruler (optional).

The full version of the Vol-040-1 Diamond Ikat Cane video will be posted in the Polymer Clay Members Library on Friday September 9, 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 “Diamond Ikat Cane” 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:

In this busy world it is sometimes easy to forget to say THANK YOU. So I am just saying a BIG THANK YOU to Cindy, Doug, and kids. I love all the colour palettes, the photography, videos and mind blowing information that you so generously all give. My membership is one of the best value things I have ever invested in. With all the troubles in this world, both man-made and the natural disasters, it is great (for a few hours) to slip into “Cindy’s World” where I can lose myself in a kalidascope of colours, learn fab. new ways to create mini works of art, or just read comments, tips and tricks from other members. So a BIG THANK YOU to everyone who contributes to this wonderful site. ~Elaine-F

Cindy, you were so right! I turned the center upside down! I cannot believe that you figured it out so quick. So now I have Hibiscus as well as parrot tulips! But The colors are great and I like both. Really got my money’s worth from that video. Two lessons for the price of one! Thank you for all your help I absolutely love these videos. I can make such pretty things! What a high it is when they come out so beautiful that you want to make more. And in every color you can think of. ~KaronKay

What a cool tute! The metal tape looks fantastic with the polymer clay pieces shown in the video. I’ve got the same tape colors as Cheryl. Now that you’ve “shown the way” in your step-by-step tute, I’ve got no excuses but to get crackin’ on some pretties of my own! Metal just adds so much to clay… I see some fab copper/silver-taped beads and mixed media projects in my future. (Can’t wait to see what others post at the Facebook page, too…). Thank you Cindy and Doug… after all this time, you still excite me every Friday with these high quality video tutorials! It’s amazing how much we get for such a small membership fee… Thanks for your continuing excellence!!! ~Phaedrakat

The following topics are included in this week’s Polymer Clay Tutor Library, Diamond Ikat Cane video tutorial:

• See several examples of canes, beads, and pendants using the Diamond Ikat Cane in a variety of different colors and patterns.
• Discussion of the tools, supplies and techniques needed to create this simple and stunning polymer clay cane.
• Find out how you can create this woven looking cane and how to cut it and combine it into an unlimited variety of designs.
• Learn a cool trick for piecing this cane together into a diamond pattern that is likely different that other Ikat Cane you have seen.
• 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 “Diamond Ikat Cane” preview video shown above, is now available for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Volume-040 Back Issue Package.

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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 #218: “Been dying to see more about this cane. Mine are far from “ghost-like” which means I have a lot to learn! Can not wait for Friday.” ~Jocelyn-C

Now if you aren’t familiar with Ghost Canes… they are basically a polymer line drawing where the lines are made with an opaque clay, usually white or black, but can be any solid color. And the rest of the cane is made up of translucent clay.

When this type of cane is sliced thinly and placed on a background of a different color, the white space disappears and the lined image appears to float on the surface… like a ghost.

Although I did publish a ghost cane tutorial several years ago, the requests keep coming for me to do more videos on this topic…

Hi Cindy, a while back you had a video on making ghost canes, and mentioned that later on down the road you would be doing some more. Are you planning on doing another video any time soon? Thanks. ~Connie-T

Hi Cindy, I would be interested in more ghost canes. I LOVE all of your videos!!!! ~Stephanie-B

Yes, Cindy, I am super interested in your ghost canes!!! What a cool thing!!! I LOVE your ghost cane beads here and on your “Polymer Clay Rose Beads and Ghost Cane Jewelry” page. I am quite intrigued! :) Hugs to you. ~Cindy-E

I would love love love to see a tutorial about “floating” things on beads. I have no idea how that is done!! ~Heidi-W

I’ve seen these ghost canes on other people’s work and wished I knew how to do them. ~Freda-K

So in this week’s video tutorial I am going to demonstrate how to make a Dandelion Ghost Cane. It is hard to deny the pleasure that a child (or the child in you) feels when picking a Dandelion Puff, giving it a blow and making a wish as the seeds float away in the breeze. It’s simply magical!

This magic of making a wish on a dandelion is probably the very reason the dandelion image has become so popular again. Do a quick search on Etsy for dandelion jewelry and you will see what I mean.

Coming up tomorrow (Friday August 26th 2011) in the Vol-039-4 members video at the Polymer Clay Tutor Library, I will be demonstrating how to create a whimsical Dandelion Ghost Cane that will remind you and your loved ones about the magic of making a wish.

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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-039-4 Dandelion Ghost Cane:

• Although this is a beginner cane, there are some basic cane making skills that are pre-requisites, such as conditioning clay and reducing canes (see note above).
• Translucent Polymer Clay. I used less than 1 package of 5527 White Translucent Premo Accents Sculpey Clay.
• White Polymer Clay. I used less than a half package of 5001 White Premo Sculpey Clay.
• Clay Blade.
• Pasta Machine or acrylic roller.

The full version of the Vol-039-4 Dandelion Ghost Cane video will be posted in the Polymer Clay Members Library on Friday August 26, 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 “Dandelion Ghost Cane” 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:

Dear Cindy, just watched the torn clay watercolor video – so easy and so impressive – so many techniques now to try and not enough hours in the day! Imagine our repertoire after a a few years of your lessons – i don’t think there is anywhere else where you can get this ongoing tuition in polymer clay. I do believe it will have a big influence in raising the artistic status of polymer clay in the community. The spotlight section is really impressive and such a good idea. Cheers. ~Cara-L

Like I’ve said before so many ideas so little time. Once I purchased the subscription videos and seeing what you get with them, it really was easy to justify going back and acquiring the full set of back issues in the members library. ~Ken-H

This membership has been vital to me and the cost very, very manageable, even though I could say I definitely have a low income. Actually, in comparison to the actual supplies and extras that I have purchased for this art form, the tutorials are the real bargain!!! I love Cindy’s voice, too, and her method of teaching us. I have bought a few other tutorials elsewhere on the web when there is a little extra money available and while they are very good written instructions, they just do not compare in any way with Cindy’s and Doug’s videos in quality, thoroughness or bang for my buck. I will be forever grateful that I found this website. Thank you so much, Cindy and Doug! ~Becky-C

The following topics are included in this week’s Polymer Clay Tutor Library, Dandelion Ghost Cane video tutorial:

• See several examples of several beads, pendants and earrings using the Dandelion Ghost Cane in a variety of different ways.
• Discussion of the tools, supplies and techniques needed to create this simple and stunning polymer clay cane.
• Find out how to a ghost cane works and the different looks you can achieve depending on what the background it is layered onto.
• Learn cool tricks for keeping the round shape of the puffs found at the ends of each spoke in the design!
• 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 “Dandelion Ghost Cane” 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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Video #213: “Wouldn’t it be fun to do a series… from around the world, tulips from Holland, the waters of Aruba, colors from the Rainforest… ” ~Jeanne-C

Yes Jeanne… a world tour does sound like fun. With last week’s Tulip Cane project, and this week’s Parrot Tulip Beads, it looks like things are heading in the right direction.

Just below is a color-filled video that I found on YouTube, to help get everyone in the mood for tomorrow’s lesson. It is especially nice for those from Chicago, since that is where the Parrot Tulips in the clip were filmed.

Beautiful colors! I’m glad you can envision colors, Cindy. Nature is a great source for inspiration and living in Arizona I enjoy the earth tones of the desert, the wonderful colors from our cactus and wildflowers, the color influence from Mexico and of course the sunsets. Trying to duplicate them is a tough one for me. Have you ever considered doing a southwest color palette? Wouldn’t it be fun to do a series on colors from around the world, tulips from Holland, the waters of Aruba, colors from the Rainforest! Wow one could stay a wake all night just dreaming up colors. As a very new clayer I find your website very informative, you’re a very gifted person. ~Jeanne-C

In last week’s Vol-038-3 Tulip Cane Tutorial, I asked everyone to set aside a section of your cane to use in this week’s sculpted Parrot Tulip Bead. I hope you did, because you’ll definitely need it for tomorrow’s Vol-038-4 video at the Polymer Clay Library (Fri July 22nd, 2011).

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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-038-4 Parrot Tulip Beads:

• A section of the petal cane you made made in the Vol-038-3 Backgroundless Tulip Cane Tutorial. It should be at least 1 inch (3cmm) long.
• Clay Blade.
• Large Ball Stylus from the Sculpey Style and Detailing Tool Set. As an alternative, you could use anything with a rounded end. See video for ideas.
• Bead rack and bead piercing pins. I use the Amaco Bead Rack.
• Sculpey Glossy Glaze (optional).
• Fine grit Sandpaper, 400 grit or higher (optional).
• Sculpey Work and Bake Clay Mat for working on (optional).

The full version of the Vol-038-4 Parrot Tulip Beads video will be posted in the Polymer Clay Members Library on Friday July 22, 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 “Parrot Tulip Beads” 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:

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

Cindy’s video tutes are amazing! The Polymer Clay Tutor’s videos teach you everything, step by step… and up-close, like you’re right there learning with her. If you’re interested in working with polymer clay, this is definitely the right place! Sign up for Cindy’s free newsletter and get 3 free videos, as well as new color recipes each week. I joined — became a member — a year ago, and I absolutely love it! It’s really the best way to learn on the web… and it’s incredibly inexpensive. ~Phaedrakat

Just want to say this site runs very, and I mean, VERY well! Cindy, you give more than our money’s worth! ~Catalina

The following topics are included in this week’s Polymer Clay Tutor Library, Parrot Tulip Beads video tutorial:

• See several examples of Parrot Tulip Beads made into pendants, links, earrings and necklaces.
• Discussion of the tools and techniques needed to create these gorgeous and realistic focal sculpted polymer clay beads.
  
• Learn the tricks for getting the realistic, ruffled edged petals, representative of the real Parrot Tulip.
  
• Plus, with some creativity and ingenuity, there are many ways to come up with your own unique jewelry designs using this stunning polymer clay bead design.

The full version of the “Parrot Tulip Beads” 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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