“Wow Cindy! If all
your videos are this well
done, then what a value
your membership really
is!” ~Jaime-H

As was explained in my April 28th Teardrop Blend Shift blog post, it is today that marks the beginning of a unique “mini-event” where anyone and everyone can get free access to the full version of my Teardrop Blend Shift, technique video.

All I ask in return, is that you let  me know your thoughts about the tutorial, by leaving a comment after you finish watching it.

Right beside the video player is a big orange “Questions Comments” button with two curved arrows pointing to it. When you get over to the library web site and click on that button… the link will take you directly to the comments section for the Teardrop Blend lesson.

I very much look forward to hearing from ALL of you. Thanks so much! So without further adieu… here is the link to the video:

Teardrop Blend Shift [Sorry... the free promo has ended.]

I’m not sure how long that video link will remain active, so please click on it right away… while this is fresh on your mind. The tutorial is around 12 minutes in length.

Wow Cindy! This Teardrop Blend video is the first of your tutorials I have watched, and I have to say what a nice job! The camera angles were great and the picture was very bright and clear. Much better than the blurry, dark, jumpy videos I have seen elsewhere. If all your videos are this well done, then what a value your membership really is! Thank you so very much for sharing this one in particular with all of us. I am sure everyone who watches this will be able to use this method easily after watching you do it. Even if they have been intimidated by the skinner blend in the past. What a sweetheart you are to give us all this chance to see it. XOXO ~Jamie-H

***********************************

“With a polymer clay
idea this versatile… this
cool… and this easy… every
pc artist and crafter really
should know how to do
it.” ~Cindy Lietz

A couple of weeks ago I posted the video for my Teardrop Blend Shift Technique, in the Polymer Clay Tutor members library.

Since then, I’ve received a ton of emails from non-members asking about it. A lot of these messages were prompted because of something I said in my April 14th blog post …

With a polymer clay idea this versatile… this cool… and this easy… every polymer clay artist and crafter really should know how to do it. In fact, for many of my upcoming cane making videos, it will be a prerequisite technique you’ll need to know how to do. ~Cindy Lietz

So Doug suggested that we do a similar promotion to what happened back in February 2009, when the original Teardrop Blend Video went live. And that was to make the full tutorial available for everyone… for a limited time… no password required.

As a result of that free showing, not only did a bunch of new clayers end up getting a chance to learn the technique… but many of them also decided to join the community here… so they could start benefiting from all the weekly lessons that get posted at the members library on Fridays. Jaime-H said it best with this…

Wow Cindy! This Teardrop Blend video is the first of your tutorials I have watched, and I have to say what a nice job! The camera angles were great and the picture was very bright and clear. Much better than the blurry, dark, jumpy videos I have seen elsewhere. If all your videos are this well done, then what a value your membership really is! Thank you so very much for sharing this one in particular with all of us. I am sure everyone who watches this will be able to use this method easily after watching you do it. Even if they have been intimidated by the skinner blend in the past. What a sweetheart you are to give us all this chance to see it. XOXO ~Jamie-H

Now many of you already know that tomorrow is another 5th Friday. It means no new video or color recipes this week. If you are new around here and don’t know what I’m talking about, here is a link for more info about How The 5th Friday Works.

And since you will not have a new video to watch tomorrow, what I’m hoping is that everyone will join me in helping to publicize a unique event that is scheduled for next week… free access to the full version of my Volume-035-3 Teardrop Blend Shift video.

For those who are not currently paid members, this complimentary video showing will:

(1) Allow you to learn a couple of unique polymer clay techniques that I know will come in very handy for you; and it will…

(2) Give you a chance to experience the quality of learning that paid members experience pretty much every week of the year, for a measly $3 to $4 per month ($9.95 per quarter).

Cindy – just wanted to tell you that I love your tutorials. I have learned more in the last two weeks than I have in the last four years. I love working with clay but you have made it into an obsession for me. I learn so much faster when I can see it done rather than reading and making so many mistakes. I had made up my mind to pay for the video lessons at another site, at upwards of fifty dollars for just one class. Then I stumbled upon your site. Wow!!! you have made it affordable even for those of us on a limited income. THANK You so much! I will continue to purchase all the back issues as I can and look forward to all the new ones. Again thanks for being there. ~Karon-C

I seem to be in a chatty mood tonight so I will share a short story with all of you about how lucky we are to have Cindy as our teacher. My sister lives in D.C. – we have many interests in common, she does mostly wire work, decided to take a clay class last weekend. She wanted to see what I was raving about when I told her about Cindy and the tutorials. And the class was on making Calla Lilies – which I had told her I was doing as one of our classes. She paid three times what we pay for three months of classes for a single afternoon! She went to the class, and was very disappointed with it as they did not learn how to make a skinner blend or anything that Cindy teaches and we tend to take for granted. So, Cindy I want you to know how grateful I am for all your teaching skills and how blessed we are that you take your time to teach us and help make our creations great. And for holding my hand through my fears of using the Dremel buffer. ~Karon-C

Karon – Wow, isn’t Cindy a bargain, lol? I simply love, love, love the fact that we keep all these videos in our libraries and can simply pull them up to watch at any time! I could never remember all the steps to do some of these effects and styles without going back to look at the videos again. I truly am still so thrilled I found Cindy’s site and subscribed. Worth every penny and then some. ~Rebecca-C

I held out for quite a while thinking it was an additional expense I could not afford. Finally decided that an extra $9.95 was not going to break me and I’m so happy that I did join. It is sometimes the little things you do that make your projects look so much better, and Cindy gives us all her tricks of the trade. I’ve made buttons before but never made them using Saran Wrap over the clay. What a difference. Another favorite was using the Adirondack inks for the Jellyroll Cane. Nice to have another use for my craft supplies. I would urge anyone to give up one movie a month, or one magazine, or anything else that equates to about $3.50 a month and join in the fun. I’ve been following your site for quite a while now Cindy, and thank you for being so generous with your free advice. It must give you a sense of great satisfaction knowing you are helping others enjoy their craft. You are much appreciated. ~Janet-A

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

SO… if you have a Blog… a Facebook page/profile… a Twitter account… a Forum presence… a Guild membership…

AND… you feel like the lessons I teach might be valuable for other clayers to learn from…

THEN… please do link back to this post to help spread the word about next week’s complimentary showing of my Teardrop Blend Shift technique video. Free access to my video tutorials does not happen very often. In fact, the last time was over 2 years ago with the original Teardrop Blend Tute.

DETAILS… on Monday, May 2nd 2011, return to this blog post and the following link will allow you to watch the full version of the Teardrop Blend Shift video…  no password required [Free promo has ended]

IF… you would like to be notified via email, when the full version of the Teardrop Blend Shift Video is available for complimentary viewing, you are more than welcome to join my Guest List. Here is the link: Polymer Clay Tutor – Free Newsletter

I still think the best thing we can do is spread the word. I know when I first came upon this site, and saw the preview videos… I wanted “more”, but was afraid to join. I didn’t know if the site was “legit” or worthwhile at first. I was ignorant of online tutorials at the time, and hadn’t purchased one before. There are people out there who just want to hear someone they know or trust say it’s OK, and that you really DO get “all that” for under $10. I think Cindy has kept the price low because it’s easier for someone to commit $9.95 to something “unknown.” It worked for me, and now I try to tell everyone about it! If we want to help Cindy (and other clayers, ‘cuz they’ll love it if they try it!) then we should tell our friends and fellow clayers how great it is… Blog about it, put “inspired by Cindy Lietz’s ____ tute” under photos of your work in Etsy, etc. That’ll make others know it’s the real deal! ~Phaedrakat

Hello, I have been a member on Cindy’s site since September of 2008, and I love it! First of all, Cindy Lietz is a real sweetheart. She really appreciates all her members and even those who just stop by for a visit. She has created a vast library of information and adds to it every week. A great deal of her instruction and information is free, no cost. Her videos are well done. she shows you close-up angles, details, and tapes at a speed that is easy to follow. But my goodness, for $3.32 per month, how can you go wrong! I feel very fortunate to have discovered her site. I have found nothing else online to compare with what she offers. Also her blog has great commentary from Cindy and other Poly artists. Polymer clay lovers, I highly recommend this wonderful site! … Thank you Cindy for your dedication to us. And hey, you dear “fence sitters” come and join us. You will be amazed and what you receive for a mere $3.32 per month. There has never been a question that Cindy has not answered for me, promise. ~Debbie-M

***********************************

Vid #148: “Your faux opals really capture the deepness and the shimmering layers.” ~Angelghost

This polymer clay opal tutorial seems like it has been a long time coming… primarily because we started talking about it back around Christmas time of last year. Well I finally came up with my own version of faux opals that has more depth than any other  polymer clay “fopals” you have ever seen before.

Listed below are several of the “Tutorial Yes Votes” that were originally posted at this article: Using Iridescent Buffalo Snow Flakes to Make Beautiful Faux Opals

Just two days ago I came across my package of iridescent buffalo snow while looking for something else and wondered if the time to use it was near. That’s a little spooky for me, Cindy. I am ready to go with it. Looks to be a wonderful and never ending technique. ~Joyce-M

Oh man, I’ve been waiting for this one!! My big ole bag of Buffalo Snow is begging to be opened and transformed into something gorgeous. The pendant in the photo is stunning! Can’t wait! Can’t wait! Can’t wait! ~Elizabeth-S

Like Elizabeth S. I ran into my Buffalo snow this past week and was hoping that your tutorial would be coming out soon. I am ready to learn how to do this Cindy. I call action for the camera crew! ~Illaya-B

Yes, definitely! I’m mostly interested in the pale milky white ones. Looking forward to it! ~Laura-B

That’s funny, I was just looking at some “Christmas-ey” stuff that didn’t make it into the Holiday put-away gear. Good thing, I would have been reluctant to get it out of the garage. Actually, that’s not true. I would have braved the very crowded garage in order to make these beautiful opals! The ones shown on this page are gorgeous! I’m looking forward to making them. ~Phaedrakat

Count me in too, Cindy… been wanting to make these little sparklies. ~Lupe-M

Faux gemstones are fun in their own right as well as for the things you can do with them that are just not practical with the real deal. I haven’t made faux opal before although I’ve seen a few ways of doing it, so it will be great to see Cindy’s approach too. ~Sue-F

I have been waiting for the opal tutorial. I love fire opals with the red and orange colors. I’m ready to go. ~Linda-B

If you didn’t pick up some Buffalo Snow at Christmas time, I think the Arnold Grummer flakes are similar to it. They would be more expensive but I don’t think too bad. I’m looking forward to the tutorial. ~Freda-K

I’m ready!  I got 2 bags of Buffalo Snow and when I was organizing my studio the other day, I was hoping this tut was coming soon. ~Linda-K

I have been waiting for this tutorial also! Really looking forward to it, Cindy! ~Marsha-N

Peggy Barnes – That is so very sweet of you to offer to send some Buffalo Snow Flakes to those who were not able to get to find any. You are another example of how wonderful the people in this community are! Someone else has already generously offered to send me some (thru Cindy – thanks again!!!). So I’m all set. There may be others in need though and I hope they take you up on your thoughtful offer. These Faux Opal beads are just to beautiful for anyone to miss out on. Thanks again Peggy! ~Lisa-W

I would love to make the opals…this is my birthstone.
~Loretta-C

Hi Cindy. I love the Polymer Clay Faux Opal Pendent with Hammered Copper Jewelry Bail. I would love to see a video on how to make this bail. I tried to make faux opal from someone on the net but did not turn out very well. I think maybe the direction may not have been clear enough, as yours are. I look forward to starting my day reading the news letter with a hot cup of coffee. ~Barb-C

You are simply stunning, Cindy. Ever since my parents gave me an opal as a present when I was 10 years old, I have loved these stones. I have always worn it around my neck, since then. I read every article about making fake ones, that I stumbled upon until now and I never ever saw one that even came close to how the real stones look. But your faux opals really capture the deepness and the shimmering layers. I would love to see the tutorial and try it out :D ~Angelghost

With such a clear Yes vote, I am happy to say that the Polymer Clay Faux Opals Tutorial has now been filmed and will be available in the Polymer Clay Library (Vol-022-3) on Friday March 19th, 2010.

Supplies & Tools: Video-022-3: Polymer Clay Faux Opals:

• Translucent Polymer Clay plus another color for your choice as a base. I used a 50:50 mix of Translucent and White Premo Sculpey.
• Buffalo Snow or other brand of large flaked Iridescent Glitter.
• Alcohol Ink (Optional).
• Studio by Sculpey Bake and Bond or Translucent Liquid Sculpey (TLS). Although TLS is easier to apply, it is much more rubbery than the Bake and Bond. I prefer the Bake and Bond over the TLS because it is much easier to sand after baking and gives a nicer overall finish.
• Parchment Paper.
• Wet/Dry Sanding Kit.
• High Gloss Finish such as Studio by Sculpey Glossy Glaze (Optional) .

The full version of the Vid-022-3 “Polymer Clay Faux Opals” Video will be posted in the Polymer Clay Members Library on Friday March 19, 2010. 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 “Faux Opals” preview video shown above, is now available for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Vol-022 Back Issue Package.

Customer Feedback About Membership Value:

Thanks for the welcome! I have been poking around this blog for months now. I am kicking myself for not joining sooner. I see now that I could have had access to the last few months of videos for a third the price, but I thought I knew enough that I didn’t “need” the subscription. But, after watching my first 2 member videos, I can see that it would have been soooo worth it. I have learned some new things already, and I’m sure there are many more great things in store for me. You are a great teacher, and you have such a supportive group of people here at your blog. I’m glad I finally made it to member status! (If only there was a way to wind back the clock and get Vol. 14 to 19 for $3.32 each instead of $9.95! What a dummy I am!). Sorry, I tend to be long-winded. Thanks again for such a great place to visit! I think I’m going to like it here. :) ~Phaedrakat

The following topics are included in this week’s “Polymer Clay Faux Opals” video tutorial:

• See examples of several different Faux Opals in a variety of color choices.
• Discussion of the supplies needed to create these beautiful stone replicas.
• Learn a new trick for getting incredible depth in your faux opals. Way beyond what has been done before with polymer clay.
• Tips on how to get the perfect finish on your faux opals so it’s hard to tell it from the real thing.
• I will also show you a great way to use the left-overs from the process for other polymer clay projects such as the inlay technique.

The full version of the “Faux Opals” preview video shown above, is now available for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Vol-022 Back Issue Package.

Vid #147: “My
friend at work
keeps suggesting that I
try making buttons and cufflinks.” ~Susan-B

Buttons are one of those things you can never have too many of. In fact, they are often collected and passed on from generation to generation. My mom has already given me several jars of buttons that her mom left for her.

Besides their obvious use in sewing, knitting, crocheting and quilting, buttons can also can be added to scrapbook pages, and even worked into jewelry designs.

With polymer clay, you can make your own custom buttons in an unlimited variety of styles to suit any creative project you happen to be working on.

Listed below are some of the many “Tutorial Yes Votes” that were originally posted at this article: Making Polymer Clay Buttons for Sewing, Knitting and Scrapbooking

My friend at work, with whom I share an office, keeps suggesting that I try making buttons and cufflinks with the small disk beads that I use for necklaces. So a tutorial from you on buttons would be simply wonderful! My vote is “YES”! ~Susan-B

Buttons? Yes! It’s one of the items on my to-do list. I’d love a video. ~Rose-M

Oh, me too for the tut!! On a related note I would love to hear about people’s experiences selling at bead (and button) shows. I placed my beads at a church bazaar late last year and they sold well. I also sold some (on consignment) in a shop here in El Paso with good results. I am now thinking of doing a larger (and expensive) bead show later this year. It makes sense to me that pc beads ought to sell like hotcakes, being so beautifully unique and different from the usual bead show fare, but then I wonder if people would be willing to pay for their worth. (Cindy, knowing that people offer single buttons for $38 is encouraging). Anyway, any and all advice, feedback, recommendations would be most appreciated. As I am jewelry design challenged, bead shows make more sense for me. Thank you. ~Elizabeth-S

I’ve always loved sorting through button collections. Count me in, I’d love to see how these are made. I’ve been curious, but wasn’t sure how or if the buttons would hold up strength-wise. $38 for a button, wow! ~DJ

Hi Cindy and all, I have made buttons before, some flowers and some with a crystal in the centre. I was very pleased with the results, although matching the colour with shop buttons was a problem. I only used them on hand wash garments. How good if we could use them in the washing machine I don’t see why not on a cool wash. I vote yes please for a video tutorial. ~Ritzs

I vote yes on buttons… Looks pretty interesting to me!
~Lisa-W

I recently approached local shops about selling my jewelry. Their initial concern was they already sell so much jewelry; yes indeed it all looks alike. After seeing what I made they decided this was A LOT different and want in in their store. I want to continue exploring other projects to expand my offerings. Button sounds like a great idea. ~Anna-S

Wow! I just recently turned my interest to buttons and have made a few sets now. I would love pointers on making buttons and I’m going to have to try out these buttons that I have already made for durability. ~Melinda-H

Yes, please, a tut on buttons. I’ve also been wondering how sturdy polyclay buttons would be. ~Linda-K

YES, YES… I am also interested in this Tut. Greetings from Germany. ~Janine-K

You get a big YES from me, Cindy. You might even throw in how you made the button card! Presentation seems to be everything in the sales game. ~Carolyn-F

WOW! I was just thinking about making some buttons! This sounds awesome! I know there is quite an interest in custom made buttons. Can’t wait!! ~Catalina

With such a clear ‘Yes’ vote, I am happy to say that the Polymer Clay Buttons Tutorial has now been filmed and will be available in the Polymer Clay Library (Vol-022-2) on Friday March 12th, 2010.

Supplies & Tools: Video-022-2: Polymer Clay Buttons:

• Strong Polymer Clay. I used Premo but you could also use Fimo or Kato.
• Polymer Clay Canes (optional). I used a striped cane in the video but also show examples of buttons made with kaleidoscope canes.
  
• Pasta Machine.
• Small Shape Cutters. I used some Makin’s Cutters.
• Parchment Paper (optional).
• Glad Cling Wrap.
• Piercing Tool.
• Small two hole or four hole button.
• Sanding and Buffing Supplies.

The full version of the Vid-022-2 “Polymer Clay Buttons” Video will be posted in the Polymer Clay Members Library on Friday March 12, 2010. 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 “Polymer Clay Buttons” preview video shown above, is now available for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Vol-022 Back Issue Package.

Customer Feedback About Membership Value:

Hi Cindy: I watch your videos with interest, because, even though I may have tried a particular technique before, you always seem to give a fresh approach to ideas I have seen before. You continually inspire me again, and again.
~Carol-C

Dear Cindy, just watched the 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. Cheers. ~Cara-L

Cindy, that video was great… I feel sorry for the people who don’t subscribe to your website. They are really missing out. ~Bonnie-K

The following topics are included in this week’s “Polymer Clay Buttons” video tutorial:

• See examples of several different buttons in a variety of patterns and shapes.
• Discussion of the types of clay needed to make strong, durable buttons.
• Learn a simple trick for getting beautiful beveled edges on your buttons.
• Tips on how to get the perfect placement and sized holes for your handmade buttons.
• Find out just how easy it really is to make professional looking buttons.
• I will also show you a great way to display, protect and keep your buttons organized on cards.

The full version of the “Polymer Clay Buttons” preview video shown above, is now available for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Vol-022 Back Issue Package.

Video Tutorials: Easy Kaleidoscope Canes; Inked Butterfly Earrings; Intricate Inlay Technique; Handmade Earwires:

With another month gone by, the Volume-021 Back Issue Package has just been uploaded to the the Polymer Clay Library. If you missed your chance to see these tutes as they were released each Friday during the month of February, they are now bundled up and waiting for you.

Today’s photo shows thumbnail images for the 4 videos included in this package:

Video-021-1 Easy Kaleidoscope Canes: Requested over and over again, Kaleidoscope designs look intricate and complicated, which is why many clayers are intimidated by them. But I show you ways to make these beauties simply with easy to follow instructions.

Video-021-2 Inked Butterfly Earrings: The surface techniques that are demonstrated in these fluttering earrings are quite versatile, and you will end up being able to use them in many different ways. Some special materials required are, Staz-On Ink (or other permanent ink), a background rubberstamp, some translucent clay and a small butterfly shape cutter. If you already have earwires, you can use those. Otherwise, I’ll be showing you how to make your own in the last tutorial of this volume.

Video-021-3 Inlay Technique: With inlaying, you embed beautiful accent pieces into a sheet of unbaked clay. Strips of faux turquoise, crackled gold leaf and other clay techniques can be added to faux bone or other colored sheets of polymer clay to make intricate and detailed pendants and other jewelry projects. Using the simple techniques I show you in the video, it will look like you spent hours shaping, carving and embedding your inlay materials into the clay. Only you will know how easy it really was!

Video-021-4 Handmade Earwires: If you are making your own polymer clay beads, chances are you may want to create a set of earrings or two, every once in awhile. And making your own earwires for your earring sets, is fast, easy and inexpensive. Plus you can add your own creative voice, using metals that match or compliment the other design elements in your jewelry making projects. I will show you several designs and give you tips on how to come up with some of your own as well.

Also included in this Volume-021 back issue package is the A-Series recipe cards from the Blue African Violet Palette.

To read feedback from members who have already benefited from the videos and recipes in this Vol-021 back issue package, click here:  Kaleidoscope Canes | Inked Butterfly Earrings | Inlay Technique | Earwires

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-021, 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.

Vid #146: “A glow in the dark psychedelic, jelly roll cane? I’ve died and gone to heaven. Roll on March and Volume 22!” ~Mary-U

Man… I thought this glow in the dark version of the traditional rainbow jelly roll cane was cool and all, but I had no idea you guys would go so nuts about it! Very groovy!

Count me in.  I just made 100 glow in the dark butterfly buttons and I’m hooked.  Let’s go back to the 60′s, it was fun. ~Bonnie-K

Oh wow, yes yes yes! I have two sisters-in-law (ages 13 and 15) they love the stuff I make now and so do all their friends, I can’t imagine their reaction with neons and glow in the dark!  The 13 year old was over a couple weeks ago and wanted to make some beads. She ended up doing something similar to Jupiter beads but did not use scraps (she used colors of her choice) and did not roll them smooth but left them coiled. We used them as links on some funky chain. She is the envy of the 7th grade! Everyone wants to know where they can get one!
~Carrie-W

As another middle aged chick who thinks glowing jewelry is pretty cool too, absolutely another yes ;0) ~DJ

Just too cool!! Yes for me, too.  So beautiful.
~Elizabeth-S

I vote for the glow-in-the-dark beads!  I use the beads I make as good behavior incentives in my first grade classroom.  A bead like this would be a huge hit!!  So yes, yes, and yes! ~Jill-V

The excitement here is wonderful, so looking forward to this. ~Joyce-M

I didn’t even realize that this was going to use glow-in-the-dark clay.  I’ve seen it at Michaels and thought, what would I ever use this stuff for?  Well, now you’ve got me all excited about it! ~Linda-K

A glow-in-the-dark, psychedelic, jelly roll cane? I’ve died and gone to heaven. Roll on March and Volume 22!
~Mary-U

Well as far as I am concerned you can put me down for 3 votes 1 for me and 2 for my grandkids. I always have glow in the dark clay. My 2 youngest grandkids think it is neat to stack the blocks and turn the lights off in my craft room. I go through a lot of the glow in the dark at Halloween. Last year we made skull pendants and ghosts for all the kids in my grandaughters classroom. I think there was 23 of them. Let me tell you we were glowing.  So when I see it on sale I always buy several bars of it. Oh ya my grandson has a dragon made with the glow in the dark clay. It really is awesome.  So yes 3 votes for me and mine. I knew this would be a great 2010. Thank you Cindy for all of us who are still kids at heart and always will be. Uuuugggggs,
~Peggy-B

Glow-in-the-dark clay makes you feel like a kid, turning out the lights and going, “Oh, Cooool!” And then doing it again, and again… (I hope I’m not starting to DORK-out again…)
~Phaedrakat

If they really glow in the dark count me in to. I could do with lighting up. lol ~Ritzs

Groovy, man! (and for you youngsters, that is a vote “yes!”) ~Sarah-W

Cool, I love anything glow-in-the-dark! Wish I’d been able to live in the ’60s, but I wasn’t born until late ’79. Shame, because I’d have made a good flower child hippy type! Everyone’s a big kid when it comes to luminescent things! ~Silverleaf

I like this idea and love a lot of stuff from the 60′s art era.I think this would be great to make for the teen in my home and or for others too. Go for it. ~Stephanie-S

This pendant is beautiful and I love the backing you have put it on…and as for “glowing-in-the-dark” well why not!!  I vote YES. ~Susan-B

I think the glow in the dark jelly rolly roll pendant will be too cool!! I have 9 year old daughter that is getting better than me at polymer clay jewellry designing, and she will flip over this! Cindy, I want to crawl inside your brain just for a day, you continue to bring us such fun, gorgeous, original and truly wearable designs. I have looked through some books and thought oh my, why would anyone even consider wearing that? It just looks like sculptures you would see in an art show. You however bring us ideas and designs that are wearable and make us feel so good about having done it ourselves!! I know I have said it before, but I’ll say it again- Cindy, you rock!!! I wanna be just like you when I grow up!!! ~Tiffany-M

So, with such a clear ‘Yes’ in the votes, I am happy to say that this Glowing Jellyroll Cane Tutorial (aka Psychedelic 60′s Cane) has been filmed and will be available in the Polymer Clay Library (Vol-022-1) on Friday March 5th, 2010.

Supplies & Tools: Video-022-1: Glowing Jellyroll Cane:

• Glow In The Dark Polymer Clay. I used Premo but you could also use Fimo Effects.
• Black Polymer Clay. I used Premo Sculpey.
• Alcohol Ink in Red, Yellow and Blue Shades. I used Ranger’s Tim Holtz Adirondack Ink in Wild Plum, Butterscotch and Stream.
• Pasta Machine or Acrylic Roller.
• Clay Blade.

The full version of the Vid-022-1 Glowing Jellyroll Cane Video will be posted in the Polymer Clay Members Library on Friday March 5, 2010. 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 “Glowing Jelly Roll Cane” preview video shown above, is now available for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Vol-022 Back Issue Package.

Customer Feedback About Membership Value:

Wow, this kaleidoscope video tutorial is my favourite. Thanks so much Cindy. It is so worth being a member here. ~Kapita

Very nice! I’m so glad I am finally a member — I can enjoy this video when it comes out (as well as the wonderful ones I’ve already seen.) I’m still angry with myself for not joining sooner (and missing out on the incredible value), but I suppose I’ll get over it (slowly…) as each new video comes out! I love the look of Kaleidoscope canes, this should be fun! ~Phaedrakat

I just became a member even though I really can’t afford to spend much money since I am on a small Social Security check each month. I think that your videos are great and easily understood.  There is so much to absorb on your site, I don’t know if I am really getting to every area. Thank you for your help and for this valuable service. ~Dorothy-H

The following topics are included in this week’s “Glowing Jellyroll Cane” video tutorial:

• See examples of several different beads, pendants and earrings made using the glowing jellyroll cane.
• Discussion of the types of clay and ink needed for this unique cane.
• Learn a simple trick for getting the coolest Skinner Blend that has a wonderful painterly look.
• Tips on how to keep your blend from getting too wide.
• Find out just how easy it really is to make this Groovy looking cane!
• Let your youth shine through, by enjoying the glow in the dark properties of this super fun cane!

The full version of the “Glowing Jelly Roll Cane” preview video shown above, is now available for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Vol-022 Back Issue Package.

“All I can say is that I am glad to be included with this talented bunch of artists!” ~Lupe-M

At midnight (EST) February 25, 2010, this fun give away event officially came to a close. There were a total of 262 comment entries. Based on a random drawing, it was Entry #28 that got pulled from the hat.

Counting down from the very top of the comments section at the January 29, 2010 contest blog post, you will see Lupe Meter occupying that Comment #28 spot. Congratulations you Lucky Girl!

Here is what Lupe said in her lucky #28 post…

Beautiful pieces of work everyone! Can’t wait to see more pictures. Thanks Cindy for your hard work on coming up with some great tutorials. And this is such a great way to show what everyone else is doing with the tutorials. All I can say is that I am glad to be included with this talented bunch of artists! Wishing everybody the best of luck!
~Lupe-M

So Lupe you will need to email me with your snail mail address, and I will forward the prize package right away. Hopefully when it arrives, you will feel all of the love and energy that went into making the beads for you. It would also be nice if you came back here to let everyone know that your gift arrived safe and sound.

Please everyone join me in the comments section below, to congratulate Lupe. Also be sure to congratulate yourself and each other… because you are all winners based on the fact that you participated and learned from the experience.

I just want to say that this contest has been a wonderful thing for all of us. No matter who wins the beads, we are all winners because we have stretched our minds and tried techniques that we might not have had the courage to attempt otherwise. Not only did this encourage me to try the techniques in Volume 14, but it also inspired me to try out what Cindy teaches us every week in the latest video. I can’t tell you all how much I am enjoying polymer clay since I found Cindy – I am totally obsessed! The new pieces of jewelry that I’ve made with polymer clay beads have gotten quite a bit of attention when I wear them. I used to get a few compliments on my jewelry. Now, my jewelry causes a commotion! ~Linda-K

Whoever wins this contest will be lucky indeed! As so many have said already, though, this is one of those opportunities where everyone who participated won – I can’t tell you how many times I have gone back to the photos. I am richer for having seen how my “classmates” interpreted what Cindy has given us. Thank you all. ~Elizabeth-S

Completely agree with Elizabeth!!!! This has been so much fun. First doing the techniques and then seeing everyone’s work. I feel like I’m in art school again, which I love! I feel young and inspired and excited about creating so I definitely feel like a winner! ~Melinda-H

1B: Mountain Lake
2B: Fireweed
3B: Lake Pine
4B: Shoreline

Don’t you just love the colors that nature throws at us! It is like Mother Nature wants each and every one of us to be an artist… Why else would she give us so many inspiring and beautiful things to look at?

Today’s color palette is based on another gorgeous photograph that Doug shot during our Whistler vacation last summer. This one was taken high on the mountain near one of the dazzling reservoirs at the base of an alpine bowl.

I hope you enjoy the color recipes from this Lakeside Palette. It’s just the thing to get the creative juices flowing!

The recipes for each of the following 4 Spring colors will be released during the month of March in Volume-022 [B-series]. Everyone who is subscribed to my Polymer Clay Guest List will be able to download them for free. They will be emailed to you one per week on Friday Mornings throughout the month of March:

• Mountain Lake (Recipe 022-1B)
• Fireweed (Recipe 022-2B)
• Lake Pine (Recipe 022-3B)
• Shoreline (Recipe 022-4B)

Mountain Lake is the mesmerizing blue of the mineral rich water. Fireweed represents the lavender tinted color of the pink flowers surrounding this beautiful alpine reservoir. Lake Pine is the dusty sage green of the wind swept pine trees.  And Shoreline captures the soft sandy gray tones of the rocks and pebbles along the water’s edge.

Thanks for posting some recipes for all of us to share. For those of use who really don’t have an easy time figuring out how to arrive at just the right color yet, these recipes are a real helper!~Cynister

Can you say MUD!! I have had my fair share of mixing the wrong colors together. I have never had a course in color theory and learned pretty quickly that is is difficult to always get the desired result. But thanks to your color recipes I’m doing a lot better now! ~Katina-K

And this one is kinda funny….

Though I am literally brand new at the P.C. bead making, I have already gotten a ‘different eye’ in my surroundings for looking at color. I was actually in my bathroom the other day, for my morning sit down and noticed my shower curtain. It is in rich browns, golds and tans. I’m thinking what great colors and textures it would be use to as a polymer clay tube bead. Also, I got a catalog from a well known flower company and just looking through it, at the color spectrum available in nature, I see ‘treasure’ now in even my junk mail! Thanks for helping me to be inspired with the idea of color in nature, mail and yes, even my bathroom curtain. ~Karen-O

The recipe names listed above are from the Vol-022 B-Series. They are free for everyone subscribed to my Polymer Clay Guest List. If you want to see the Vol-022 A-Series Color Palette that paid library members will also receive during the month of March, then click here: Polymer Clay Color Recipes | Rocks and Minerals Palette

Vid #145: “It’s really nice not to have to depend on what the stores sell.” ~Rose-M

Have you ever been in a situation where you’re working on a lovely pair of polymer clay earrings, only to find that you don’t have the right ear wires to finish them? Maybe your supplies ran out. Maybe the wires you have on hand are in the wrong metal. Or maybe you just feel that the designs of the store bought ones are just going to be too darn boring for your cool looking beads.

Well now you can make them yourself, quickly and easily, using the wire of your choice. And you can create custom designs that will really give your jewelry a unique one-of-kind look, exclusive to you!

On Friday Feb 26th in the Polymer Clay Video Library (Vol-021-4), you will learn everything necessary to get started creating beautiful custom ear wires / ear hooks in several different styles.

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.) This will be a great video!
~Phaedrakat

Would love to learn how to make the wires for earrings. Another way to make the earrings all mine. I have always before bought earring wires, so yes please put this on your list of to do items. I will have to find a good place to purchase some copper colored anodized Niobium wire. Thanks again Cindy for another great idea. ~Peggy-B

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

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

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

Three comments.. YES.. YES.. YES. Thanks for bumping it up too. That is the earwire shape that I absolutely love. You rock. ~Sam-M

Yipee!! I can’t wait to learn the earwire techniques!! And the rest too, but mainly the earwires… *big grin* ~Lisa-W

Well today you all get to see the sneak peek of the Handmade Ear Wires video. Then, coming up on Friday Feb 26th, the full tutorial will be posted in the Polymer Clay Members Library as Vol-021-4.

Supplies & Tools: Video-021-4: Handmade Earwires:

• 20 gauge Half Hard Wire. You could use anywhere from 18ga-21ga in Copper, Silver, Gold, Niobium, Enamel Coated Copper, etc.
• Flush Cutters. Try and use jewelry grade tools and not the ones from the garage.
• Round Nose Pliers.
• Chain Nose or Flat Nose Pliers.
• Metal File, Metal Nail File or Burr Cup. For filing the ends that go into the ear and make them safe to wear.
• Ruler.

The full version of the Vid-021-4 Handmade Ear Wires Video will be posted in the Polymer Clay Members Library on Friday Feb 26, 2010. 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 “Handmade Earwires” preview video shown above, is now available for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Vol-021 Back Issue Package.

Customer Feedback About Membership Value:

I’ve only been making beads out of clay for a couple of months, but I feel your polymer clay videos are 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 helps to have a high quality video to SHOW you up close and personal about the topics you discuss. I definitely feel the series is a bargain and would recommend it. After subscribing to your weekly videos, I 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 “Handmade Earwires” video tutorial:

• See examples of several different Ear Wire / Ear Hook designs.
• Discussion of the types of wire and tools needed for making your earwires.
• Learn a simple trick for getting the same sized loops on your wires every time!
• Tips on how to cut, file and shape your ear wires.
• Find out just how easy it really is to get that designer look by custom making your earring findings!
• Learn the importance of proper sanding and finishing to make earring that are not only beautiful , but safe to wear!

The full version of the “Handmade Earwires” preview video shown above, is now available for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Vol-021 Back Issue Package.

“Your contest gave me the incentive to try different techniques that in the past I didn’t consider.” ~Susan-D

Well there were only 15 new photo entries submitted over this past week, so this contest appears to have run it’s course. In all that makes a grand total of 120 entries… WOW!!! You guys did absolutely fabulous! I’m exhausted… but very, very proud of everyone who participated.

As has been the case each Friday for the past few weeks, the new entries (Photo #109 to #123) are now posted at the end of the picture gallery spread, here: Polymer Clay Bead Giveaway Contest

As everyone should know by now, each comment you make over at the contest photo gallery page, increases your chances of winning the grand prize… a special selection of Polymer Clay Beads handmade by me (Cindy Lietz, Your Polymer Clay Tutor).

So head over there right away and get your final comments posted before it’s too late.

The lucky winner will be drawn at the end of the day on Thursday, February 25th and then announced here at the blog on Friday, February 26th. Only 7 more sleeps to go…  :-)

Cindy, I have to tell you how inspiring you are. I’m still relatively new to polymer clay. I’ve taken a magazine subscription and read everything I have time to that I find on-line, but nothing compares (at least for me) to being shown. My husband (who is my biggest fan and supporter) enjoys watching your videos along with me every week. He’s even dreaming about Premo clay :-)

Your contest gave me the incentive to try different techniques that in the past I didn’t consider. I guess it’s partly because I can’t ignore a challenge like this. That led to me realizing I should try everything you do at least once. When I first tried the Jupiter beads I couldn’t stop! I only have a few hours a day to play with my clay, but every night I found myself making more and more Jupiter beads. It became addicting.

I finally forced myself to stop, for now at least, and also try the other techniques in Vol-014. I don’t think the crackled Raku bug bit me like the Jupiter beads, but I did enjoy the experience of trying to make them. Now it seems I can’t stop making the torn paper beads. You’ve definitely made this so much fun. Again, thanks for all you do for us.

~Susan-D