Video Tutorials:
1: Rose Petal Beads;
2: Fill Bezels with Clay;
3: Wax Polishing Your Beads;
4: Grape Hyacinth Cane:

Well another month has gone by and the Volume-034 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 March, 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-034 Package:

Video-034-1 Rose Petal Beads: Sometimes your jewelry creations have a much more important purpose than just looking beautiful. By incorporating the dried petals of Roses and other flowers gathered from a special occasion… such as a Wedding; Graduation; Birth of a New Baby; or the Memorial of a loved one; the beads you make can hold deep significance and meaning. Many Rose Petal Bead “recipes” suggest that you use the whole flower, boiled down to a dark, black/brown (and smelly) sludge, which is then molded into “traditional” rosary style beads. But polymer clay allows you to create a more modern, prettier version that will preserve the meaning and the beauty of any important event. Not only are these Polymer Clay Flower Petal Beads gorgeous, but they are easy to make as well… what could be better than that!

Video-034-2 Fill Bezels with Polymer Clay: With Mixed Media Jewelry being such a hot trend these days, there are many unique jewelry components becoming available in the marketplace. Metal Bezels for example. They allow you to showcase your polymer clay designs and techniques in very creative ways. Although bezels are relatively easy to combine with polymer clay, there are some tips and tricks for using them, that will make the process go a lot smoother. So if you like to use bezels in your jewelry designs, this is a must tutorial.

Video-034-3 Wax Polishing Your Beads: In my opinion, nothing is prettier and more professional looking than a silky smooth glass finish, on smooth-surface polymer clay beads. And the best way to achieve this is by sanding well and buffing… no finish coatings required. But sanding and buffing is time consuming… especially with tiny round beads, or sculpted and molded ones. An alternative to getting a nice sheen on your polymer clay beads, without having to do a ton of sanding, or finishing using heavy gloss coatings (i.e. Future Floor Polish, Varathane, Sculpey Glaze, etc.), is to use a paste wax such as Minwax. In this tutorial I will share with you my time tested tips and tricks for using a paste wax to make the chore of finishing beads, a whole lot easier.

Video-034-4 Grape Hyacinth Cane: The Grape Hyacinth is a tiny little flowering bulb that sends up a cluster of blue or purple flowers in the early Spring. It is the perfect image to capture in a stylized polymer clay flower cane. Because its triangular shape is echoed in other flowers as well, you can make several different flower cane designs from this pattern, just by simply changing the color combinations. That means you get 2… no 3… no 10 polymer clay cane designs for the price of one. Now that’s one pretty awesome cane!

Also included in this Volume-034 back issue package, are the A-Series recipe cards from the Bluebell Palette.

To read feedback from members who have already benefited from the videos and recipes in this Vol-034 back issue package, click here: Rose Petal Beads | Fill Bezels with Polymer Clay | Wax Polishing Your Polymer Clay Beads | Grape Hyacinth 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-034, 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 #195: “Metal adds
a little something extra
to polymer clay. I think these
bezels are great and can see
making little PC charms with
them as well.” ~Phaedrakat

With Mixed Media Jewelry being such a hot trend these days, there are many unique jewelry components becoming available in the marketplace. Metal Bezels for example. They allow you to showcase your polymer clay designs and techniques in very creative ways.

Cindy, I am excited that you incorporate mixed media with your polymer clay tutorials since I am a big admirer of mixed media art – especially when it features polymer clay. Thank you so much. ~JoAnna-G

I seem to be going more down the mixed media route recently. ~Silverleaf

Mixed media jewelry is pretty popular these days. Our friendly polymer clay medium has always ‘played nice’ with other craft and jewelry supplies. ~Phaedrakat

My impetus to learn how to effectively use polymer clay came from my interest in multi-media collage. It’s wonderful that polymer clay is so versatile. My hope in learning different methods of using polymer clay is to be able to create handmade, unique embellishments and jewelry!
~Karen-B

I also have lots of mixed media items that I need new ways to use. This could be another whole world for us. Thanks again for always sharing your ideas with us. You rock! ~Susan-K

Although bezels are relatively easy to combine with polymer clay, there are some tips and tricks for using them that will make the process go a lot smoother. And for this reason, I have made this the topic for tomorrow’s video tutorial at the members library.

Cindy, The examples you’ve shown are so cool. Metal adds a little something extra to polymer clay. I think these bezels are great and can see making little PC charms with them as well. Thanks for your creativity, Cindy! ~Phaedrakat

I really like the look of the faux opal in the bezel. This would be a good technique to use in a spoon, too. Another great tut, Cindy! ~Linda-K

There is an amazing variety of bezels available from many suppliers. You can find them in almost every shape, size and material. Just  recently I received a huge selection from my friend Terry Morris of EpoxyJewelry.com. You may know him as the UV Resin guy. His bezels (seen in my tutorial) are perfect for filling with polymer clay and resin to make durable pendants and charms for your art jewelry projects.

I purchased some of Terry’s bezels, such a good price. ~Peggy-B

I use Patera bezels from Nunn Design. They are a bit expensive but the end result proves worth it. ~Hobokenmary

Thank you, Cindy and Doug, Cannot wait to get more bezels.
~Jocelyn-C

Well… in tomorrow’s Vol-034 video tutorial (Friday March 11th, 2011 at the Polymer Clay Library) you will learn some of my tips and tricks for Filling Bezels with Polymer Clay. Even if you have already been successfully using bezels for a while now, I think you will still find this lesson to be useful and handy.

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-034-2 Filling Bezels with Clay:

• Metal Bezels of any size, shape, depth and material. Actually, you can use any metal item that will hold clay, including spoon bails, bottle caps, lockets, etc.
• Rubbing alcohol and paper towels.
• Clay. This is where your creativity can shine. You will see examples of how I used several different polymer clay techniques to fill bezels, including…
  >> Aurora Technique
  >> Faux Knit
  >> Shaded Rose Cane
  >> Rose Petal Clay
  >> Gerbera Flower Cane
  >> Spider Cane
  >> Zebra Cane
  >> Faux Opal Technique
  >> UV Resin
• Clay Blade, pasta machine, cutters, etc. Depending on the technique used to fill your bezel.
• Weldbond Glue or other polymer safe glue that will work with metal.
• Sanding kit (optional).

The full version of the Vid-034-2 Filling Bezels with Polymer Clay video will be posted in the Polymer Clay Members Library on Friday Mar 11th, 2011. But if you would like to see a sneak peek intro clip right now, scroll down the page a bit to the video player below.

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

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

The full version of the “Filling Bezels” preview video shown above, is now available for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Volume-034 Back Issue Package.

Customer Feedback About Membership Value:

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

I have really enjoyed the videos! They are well worth the money. ~Melinda-M

Nothing compares to Cindy and Doug’s tireless, professional, helpful, sweet acts that they perform on this web site. Not only that, I could listen to Cindy all day, with that cute little voice and that accent… I just love it. Plus where could you find all of that for such a small amount of money? It’s perfect for me because I have no money and it makes me feel like I’m great because I’m a member. Yep, just look at me… I AM A MEMBER… and very proud to be one… Luv you Guys… Cindy and Doug, be proud at what you accomplished. ~Helen-S

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

• See examples of several shapes, sizes and styles of bezels, using several different types of polymer clay techniques.
• Discussion of the supplies and materials needed to create a fantastic collection of art jewelry bezels.
• Learn how simple and quick it really is to create these cool looking polymer clay pendants, charms and embellishments.
• Plus, with some creativity and ingenuity there are many ways to come up with unique palettes of your own.

The full version of the “Filling Bezels” preview video shown above, is now available for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Volume-034 Back Issue Package.

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Video Tutorials:
1: Silicone Molds;
2: Faux Druzy;
3: Leaf Vein Bails;
4: Gingham Cane:

With yet another month gone by, the Volume-031 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 December, 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-031 Package:

Video-031-1 Silicone Molds: Learn to make your own silicone molds using Simple Silicone – a 2 part silicone putty that can be molded around any dimensional item, and then filled with solid or liquid polymer clay and baked in the oven. This technique brings all kinds of exciting possibilities to polymer clay. You will be able to make Faux Druzies, designer buttons and a huge variety of other projects as well.

Video-031-2 Faux Druzy: Ever seen those gemstones with the crystals on top? Well they’re called Druzies and now you can learn how to make your own Faux Druzy from polymer clay. In nature, you’ll find endless varieties of this beautiful stone. So as as you can imagine, there is no limit to your creativity on this one!

Video-031-3 Leaf Vein Bails: Learn how to incorporate handmade wire bails into the structure and design of your polymer clay beads and pendants. Functional and beautiful at the same time! Plus, you’ll love how easy this bail is to make!

Video-031-4 Gingham Cane: Classic, Simple and Cool! That is how I would describe this neat little polymer clay cane based on the classic fabric pattern called Gingham. And because it utilizes a clay extruder, you can also add Fast to the list of it’s attributes!

Also included in this Volume-031 back issue package are the A-Series recipe cards from the Vegas Wildflower Palette.

To read feedback from members who have already benefited from the videos and recipes in this Vol-031 back issue package, click here: Silicone Molds | Faux Druzy | Leaf Vein Bails | Gingham 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-031, 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 #182: “I have no
clue how to use molds
effectively. More tutorials
on molding techniques
and materials would
be great.” ~Jill-V

Every once in a while, a cool product comes along that changes how you do certain things. I found this to be the case with Simple Silicone, a 2 part putty for making molds. It’s from Terry Morris at epoxyjewelry.com — you know the Ultradome UV Resin Guy. When Terry first told me about this silicon product, he said that I was going to love it. Boy was he right!

I would like to know if the silicone is okay to use in the oven. I think I’ll do a search and see if anyone has commented and said that it works. >> Here’s What I Found Out About Baking In Molds >> you CAN do it if you use silicone / RTV molding compounds (the kind where you mix 2 different colored putties together.) I’ve used Mold-n-Pour, which they sell at Michael’s, and there are lots of other brands out there, too. The silicone stuff costs more, though… best to only use it for molds that need to be baked (like, when using with liquid clay… or maybe Bake & Bond… BTW, wonder how that would work with Faux Opals?) ~Phaedrakat

Terry’s Simple Silicone molding material has advantages over other molding materials… one of which is that you can bake your polymer clay while it is still in the mold. This means Faux Opals can be made super easily with little to no sanding required. As well, Terry’s Simple Silicon product made it possible for me to invent a very cool way to make Faux Druzies, which I think you’re going to love.

I just attempted to make a mold with silicone, but I think the combination of my hot hands, together with the hot weather made it a disaster. Any tricks and tips for working with silicon molds would be appreciated. Hugs. ~Carole-R

Cindy – a tutorial on using molds might be a good one for a technical segment. I also have purchased push molds and have made some of my own molds, but it would still be great to have a tutorial on how to best use them. ~Carolyn-F

At our local PC group monthly meeting, guess what we did… made molds of buttons and earrings… LOL. It is so funny how many of your blogs are just what I have been experimenting or thinking about. Maybe we knew each other in a different life or were twins separated at birth… no don’t think so because I am a couple years older. We used a silicone molding putty. It was very easy to use, set up quickly and results were great. The molds were soft and flexible but I don’t know if I would venture into putting them in the oven. Do you know if that is OK? ~Anna-S

I have an issue with certain molds… they sag in the middle so easily. Would love to hear some ideas on how to solve this problem. ~Squiddy

For some of my previously published references about mold making tips and techniques, you can refer to the Volume-029-1 video for info about using Sculpey MoldMaker to make texture plates. And in Video-023-2 I talked a bit about using push molds with Faux Jade.

Now, coming up tomorrow on Friday, December 3rd, 2010 at the Polymer Clay Library (Vol-031-1), I will answer more of your questions about mold making materials… this time with regards to using two part silicone putty for creating fantastic “replica” polymer clay beads and jewelry projects.

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-031-1 Silicone Molds:

• Simple Silicone, or most any other brand of 2 part silicone molding putty.
• Clear sheet of acrylic or glass. Optional, but handy.
• Double stick tape or glue dots. Optional, but can come in handy to keep items from sliding around. In the video, I had forgotten to clean my work surface, and my tape did not stick. Trust me though, if you are making several molds at once, and your surface is clean, the tape trick is will be very helpful.
• Item for molding. I used old buttons, cabochons, a small lock and a brooch for the samples in the video. However, you can use whatever you like or have on hand.

The full version of the Vid-031-1 Silicone Molds video will be posted in the Polymer Clay Members Library on Friday December 3rd, 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 “Silicone Mold” preview video shown above, is now available for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Volume-031 Back Issue Package.

Customer Feedback About Membership Value:

Cindy and Doug… I actually feel like you two do not charge enough. You offer an excellent tutorial package that is not matched anywhere else on the Internet! Seriously… you guys are awesome! Please do whatever it takes to make your life easier so you do not get burned out. ~Laura-R

Cindy never ceases to amaze. How she keeps coming up with so many cool ideas is beyond me …she keeps it interesting …and gives us WAY more than we pay for. We are getting $10, $15, or even $20 tutes for about 80 cents. I don’t know how any clayer can pass that up! Even an advanced clayer hasn’t seen it all …and Cindy not only provides the ‘how to’ in these videos, she also provides inspiration. She shows you or at least hints at how to take the tutes even further, and that’s what many of her students have been doing. The gallery is proof of what the Polymer Clay Tutor can do for you! For less than the price of a fast-food burger…you can get a membership here. C’mon…join up! Thanks, Cindy, thanks, Doug! ~Phaedrakat

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

• See examples of several different molds and the polymer clay jewelry made using the molds.
• Discussion of how the Silicone Putty works and how to use it to make interesting and unique molds.
• Learn about the advantages of using silicone molds, over other types of mold making products.
• Plus, find out just how easy it is to create your own one of a kind polymer clay art beads and focals using these unique molds.

The full version of the “Silicone Mold” preview video shown above, is now available for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Volume-031 Back Issue Package.

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Video Tutorials:
1: Texture Plates;
2: Distressed Paint Finish;
3: Embossed Metal Stamps;
4: Pumpkin Canes:

With yet another month gone by, the Volume-029 Back Issue Videos have now been added to the Polymer Clay Library. If you missed your chance to see these tutes as they were released each Friday during the month of October, 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-029 Package:

Video-029-1 Sculpey MoldMaker Texture Plates: As a jewelry designer, you should always be looking for ways to give your beads that extra special, one-of-a-kind look. You want your work to reflect who you are as an artist, with designs that really speak to that originality. So how can you do that if everyone is using the same mass produced texture plates? Make your own of course!!

Video-029-2 Distressed Paint Finish: The versatility of this medium… Polymer Clay… never ceases to amaze me! One cool technique is distressed paint finishes, which look especially great on textured polymer clay surfaces. And since you just learned out how to make your own texture plates in the previous Vol-029-1 tutorial, this is the perfect time to show you how to add a distressed finish to your polymer clay beads and pendants.

Video-029-3 Embossed Metal Stamps: Would you like to make your own word stamp or signature stamp to use with your polymer clay projects? One way to do this is with the Sculpey MoldMaker technique that I taught in Video-029-1. However, with word images, you need to reverse them in your mold so they “read” normally when imprinted into your clay. That can get a bit tricky. So another method for making word stamps, is to emboss metal… using supplies that you probably already have in your recycle bin.

Video-029-4 Pumpkin Canes: No matter what time of the year it is, this tutorial on making Pumpkin canes will provide you with valuable tips and techniques for making ANY shaded polymer clay picture cane. The pattern or picture you use for your cane design, can be a simple line drawing that you sketch yourself, one you’ve found in a coloring book, or even a piece of clip art. So many possibilities!

Also included in this Volume-029 back issue package are the A-Series recipe cards from the Beach Pebbles Color Palette.

To read feedback from members who have already benefited from the videos and recipes in this Vol-029 back issue package, click here: Sculpey MoldMaker Texture Plates | Distressed Paint Finish | Embossed Metal Stamps | Pumpkin Canes

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-029, 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.

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

“Cindy, you are a
mind reader! I’ve been
trying to figure this out for
some time and your idea
sounds so obvious.”
~Hanne-R

On October 19th, I posted an introductory preview clip for the custom Embossed Metal Stamps tutorial.

Today, the full version of this video lesson (Vol-029-3) is available for viewing at the Polymer Clay Members Library. Here is the link: Making Your Own Personalized Embossed Metal Stamps

For anyone who is not yet a paid member, if you did not know, the cost works out to only $3.32 per month. This gives you 24/7 access to the full versions of my Friday video tutes. Plus you also receive four A-series color recipe cards. This week’s color is: Beach Granite (Vol-029-3A) from the Beach Pebble Polymer Clay Color Palette.

It’s mind boggling to think there are people out there that don’t realize your site is the BEST out there. Your videos are clear and very informative. I own Polymer Clay books, although I have learned from them they don’t even come close to what I’ve learned from watching your tutorials. The other great reason for being a member is the fact that you are constantly trying new products such as the Micromesh pads, Ultra Dome etc. that keeps us on the top of the Polymer Clay world.  With out you and Doug, life as a clayer would be so mundane. You encourage all of us to explore all possibilities and push the envelope to be creative. The cost to be a member is so minimal for what we get. We definitely get a bang for our buck!! Besides, there aren’t any other sites where you can state a clay problem your having and get so much helpful suggestions.  Everyone here has been there done that so as a newcomer everyone takes you under their wings to help you to bloom in the new and wonderful craft of claying. ~Jeanne-C

Cindy. I soooo appreciate all that you do for us. Thank you for giving us so many tutorials at a such a low, low price. You publish daily, answer questions, and now you’re offering prizes! You’re always having to come up with ideas to please a bunch of members who have different wants and tastes. (We’re getting so spoiled!) Please forgive me for the times I’ve acted ungrateful. You ask nothing in return, except that we show how inspirational your tutes and this blog have been when we submit our spotlight entries. Let’s not forget, that we need to be using Cindy’s tutorials, variations of them, or those we’ve come up with on our own. (Or things the blog has inspired us to try, as in the team effort to help Cherie make her Faux stone beads!) Cindy you’re so amazing for putting up with us! I say this all the time, but I don’t know how you find the time to do it all. Thanks so much for this fabulous tute! ~Phaedrakat

If you want to become a paid member, here is the link:
Polymer Clay Video Library

Or if you are brand new to polymer clay, the best place to first learn all of the fundamentals is here: Polymer Clay Beginners Course

To browse other video tutorials that are available for purchase without becoming a subscribing member (in other words… just a one time fee), you can go here: Polymer Clay Video Back Issues

*****************************************************************************************************
Open Mic… Please use the comment sections of these Friday posts to discuss polymer clay challenges that you need some help with… success stories about your bead and jewelry projects… requests for upcoming video tutorials. In other words, it’s an open mic :-) .

Listed below are the topics that were discussed in the last Friday’s Open Mic comments:

• A fun “get paint all over yourself” technique.
  
• Precious metal clay vs polymer clay.
  
• A new Gravatar debut here at the blog… yay!
  
• Memorial and keepsake flower petal beads
  
• Building a business… asking the right questions.
  
• Creativity has no limits.
• And more…
  

If you need to catch up, here is the link to the article where last week’s topics were discussed in detail: Distressed Paint Finish

Otherwise, you can use the comment section below to start talking about some new topics and ideas. Happy Friday!!!

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

“I have a feeling I
am going to turn into a
mold making / texture sheet
making crazed woman.
*LOL!*” ~Lisa-W

On September 28th, I posted an introductory preview clip for the custom Texture Plates tutorial. Today, the full version of this video lesson (Vol-029-1) is available for viewing at the Polymer Clay Members Library. Here is the link: Make Your Own Texture Plates Using Sculpey MoldMaker Clay

For anyone who is not yet a paid member, if you did not know, the cost works out to only $3.32 per month. This gives you 24/7 access to the full versions of my Friday video tutes. Plus you also receive four A-series color recipe cards. This week’s color is: Pebble Gray (Vol-029-1A) from the Beach Pebble Polymer Clay Color Palette.

If you’re trying to decide whether or not to join, you should do it sooner rather than later. When you become a member, you get four videos per month for about $3.32 (or less than a dollar each.) I waited a few months before I joined, and missed out on some great videos! Once a month is over, the videos go into the back issue archives. If you didn’t join, then you miss out on those videos, unless you go and buy the back issue for $9.95. (4 videos) It’s still a great price, but not as good as the same amount for 12 videos! I know I was very mad at myself knowing I wasted money by waiting. It’s such a great deal, and I’ve never been disappointed. I’m disabled, and on a fixed income; still, I find that it’s not too hard to pay $9.95 one time for 3 months of videos. ~Phaedrakat

This is such a fantastic place to be. Anyone still sitting on the fence should jump in and join us. You will never regret it. ~Carol-H

Oh yes we can all say everything again and again. People just don’t know what they are missing and when they find out they want to kick themselves you know where. So much fun is being missed by so many. I wish I knew a way I could convince all people interested in polymer clay this is the #1 place to be not only on Fridays but everyday. Thanks Cindy and Doug for all you have given and will continue to give. Uuuuugggggs to all. ~Peggy-B

If you want to become a paid member, here is the link:
Polymer Clay Video Library

Or if you are brand new to polymer clay, the best place to first learn all of the fundamentals is here: Polymer Clay Beginners Course

To browse other video tutorials that are available for purchase without becoming a subscribing member (in other words… just a one time fee), you can go here: Polymer Clay Video Back Issues

*****************************************************************************************************
Open Mic… Please use the comment sections of these Friday posts to discuss polymer clay challenges that you need some help with… success stories about your bead and jewelry projects… requests for upcoming video tutorials. In other words, it’s an open mic :-) .

Listed below are the topics that were discussed in the last Friday’s Open Mic comments:

• Covering plastic eggs with polymer clay.
  
• Stargazer lily color palette.
  
• 3D polymer clay design vs 2D graphic design.
  
• Dreaming of polymer clay.
  
• Polka dot patterns
  
• Some info about B-series color palettes.
  
• Sesame Street Wallpaper (no this is not about Katy Perry).
  
• Getting back to true passions.
  
• Tips for measuring 1/8 part when mixing colors.
  
• Problems with consistency of Fimo and Sculpey.
  
• Finding the color palette photos.
• And more…
  

If you need to catch up, here is the link to the article where last week’s topics were discussed in detail: Spotted Lily Petal Cane

Otherwise, you can use the comment section below to start talking about some new topics and ideas. Happy Friday!!!

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

Vid #174: “Wouldn’t it
be wonderful to make
your own impressions for
texturing beads… no design
limits or hunting for special
plates?” ~Ellebella-S

As a jewelry designer, you should always be looking for ways to give your beads that extra special, one-of-a-kind look. You want your work to reflect who you are as an artist, with designs that really speak to that originality. So how can you do that if everyone is using the same mass produced texture plates? Make your own of course!!

You’ve done several tutorials lately that have very specifically interested me. I’m so excited about uv resin, butterfly canes and the dichroic glass technique that I might have to make a reversible pendant using all three!!!!! I’d really like to see a future one about creating stamps or texture plates for polymer clay. I know that rtv mold putty and polymer clay have both been used for making impressions in clay… but as everyone says, you make seemingly complicated things so much easier. I’m familiar with a few different methods, but I’d love to see how you might do this! Wouldn’t it be wonderful to make your own impressions for texturing beads… no design limits or hunting for special plates? ~Ellebella-S

Have you ever come across texture plates or sheets for clay that have a musical theme, either notes, symbols, or instruments? I’ve searched a bit but have never found any. I have an opportunity to place some jewelry in the gift shop of the local symphony orchestra, but the idea in my head doesn’t seem to translate to the real world availability of the thingies to create it. I hate it when that happens. ~Linda-S

Cindy – the bead cap tutorial is great! I was fascinated by the hand-made texture plate you used and would be very interested to learn how you did this – hint, hint! ~Susan-B

I love the textured caps… and love your handmade texture plates, too! (*another tute request hint). ~Phaedrakat

I have used texture plates made for fabric and shiva paint sticks to texture polymer clay. I’ve also used the bottoms of interesting “soles” on shoes. What other unusual things are people out there using to texture your polymer clay with? ~Katina-K

Hi Cindy! Just wanted to let you know I’ve learned a lot from your videos – thank you so much! While digging through some potpourri to try out your flower inclusion idea, I also found a chunk of something with a great texture that might look good on clay. So this was a very inspiring idea and I look forward to more! Thanks again. ~Libby-C

Brilliant! You can never have too many textures!
~Genevieve-C

I saw a bead swap once where everyone made texture plates and swapped them. Sounds like fun! ~Sue-W

As usual, such cool tips, this time about textures.
~DaisySoapGirl

Raises hand, gestures wildly… animal leather textured prints… fur-like ringlet, tails or scales? LOL!!! Tute request please.
~Jocelyn-C

I love Jocelyn’s quote about “capturing” things in clay. I saw Avatar in 3D the other night and I had so many moments in the film where I was thinking “Wow, look at the colours/textures there, how can I recreate that idea in polymer clay?” Sounds like the start of one of those lists, “You know you’re obsessed with polymer clay when…” ;) ~Silverleaf

How funny Silverleaf! I was thinking the same thing during the movie too! We are all obsessed with this stuff, aren’t we? I am constantly seeing colors and patterns that I am eager to reproduce in polymer clay. My family knows that half-glazed look in my eyes by now and just roll their eyes… “there goes Mom again!” ~Maria-C

So on Friday, October 1st, 2010 at the Polymer Clay Library (Vol-029-1), I decided it would be fun to teach you how to make your own texture plates using Sculpey Mold Maker (aka Super Elasticlay).

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-029-1 Texture Plates:

• Sculpey Mold Maker (aka Super Elasticlay). You can also use regular scrap polymer clay for this technique. It will just not have the same flexibility or the fairly non-stick properties that Mold Maker has. Nor will you find it as easy to create the lined drawings and other fine details I will show you in the tutorial.
• Pasta Machine or Acrylic Roller.
• Items for impressing into clay. I used Sculpey Detailing Tools; Sculpey Etch & Pearl Tools; Wooden clothespin; Needle tools; and mesh Onion bag. There are lots of other household items you can use as well.
• Cornstarch or water as release agent if necessary.

The full version of the Vid-029-1 Texture Plates video will be posted in the Polymer Clay Members Library on Friday October 1st, 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.

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

The full version of the “Texture Sheets” preview video shown above, is now available for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Volume-029 Back Issue Package.

Customer Feedback About Membership Value:

What a great month of tutorials! The fantastic Johnny Jump Up – Pansy – Viola cane that must have taken SO much work to film. I just loved it! The metal bezels — so cool, and such a great way to add metal to a clay design. And for such a low, low price! The flashing was 59 cents at Ace Hardware — super inexpensive, just as Cindy told us. The Faux Jade was fabulous, as are all of the vids, and it reminded me that I haven’t used my molds in awhile. I definitely want to put them to use! And last, but not least, the cute little puffy beads, which is a wonderful way to use a favorite cutter to make an adorable 3-D bead! Once again, I can say my $3.32 was well-spent! Seriously, people are missing out when they don’t join up! I remember when I was on-the-fence. I missed out on some great tutorials at very low prices. I’m so glad I’m a member now! Thank you Cindy and Doug! And thanks to all of the members who make this place such a great hang-out!
~Phaedrakat

Cindy and Doug I just want to let the 2 of you know I enjoy coming to this blog more and more every day. You don’t know what you are going to find but you do know it will be more than what we have paid for. Thank you both for giving your all and more. Love and Super Uuuuuuuggggggggs.
~Peggy-B

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, Texture Plates video tutorial:

• See examples of several texture plate designs as well as  pendants created using the textures.
• Discussion of how the Mold Maker clay works, and how to get the most out of it.
• Learn a cool tip to keeping your clay from getting sticky… hint: It involves the fridge.
• And finally, find out how to create and use your texture plates for an unlimited number of design ideas.

The full version of the “Texture Sheets” preview video shown above, is now available for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Volume-029 Back Issue Package.

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Video Tutorials:
1: Ivy Leaf Charms;
2: Leopard Cane;
3: UV Epoxy Resin;
4: Zebra Cane:

With another month gone by, the Volume-024 Back Issue Videos have just been added to the Polymer Clay Library, right on schedule. If you missed your chance to see these tutes as they were released each Friday during the month of May, now is your chance to add them to your collection as a convenient bundled package.

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

Video-024-1 Ivy Leaf Charms: This pretty nature inspired charm is created using a real Ivy Leaf or other leaf of your choice. The use of color blends and the texture from the veining in the leaf gives this charm a very realistic look and feel. Learn how to create a enchanting twisted vine as the bail for your charm, using a simple balled copper headpin. Use the tiny leaves as earrings, pendants or even home decor items.

Video-024-2 Leopard Cane: Go a little Wild with your polymer clay jewelry with this fun and creative animal print. I will show you how to create this fun and realistic leopard pattern in its natural color palette. But feel free to create the funky pattern in any wild color combination you desire. Purple Leopard Print anyone?

Video-024-3 UV Epoxy Resin: Take your polymer clay projects to a whole new level of shine with this easy to use UV Epoxy Resin called UltraDome! Since it is cured using UV light (sun or lamp), you have all the time you need to get it perfect without the worry of having it set up before your done working with it. Learn the simple tricks to getting a perfect glassy smooth finish to your flat polymer clay pieces that are really professional looking. You’re going to love this stuff!

Video-024-4 Zebra Cane: Hey if you’re going wild with leopard, you might as well go all the way and add zebra to your animal print cane repertoire! This bold graphic pattern is wonderful for your polymer clay beads, pendants, bangles and all kinds of funky jewelry projects. And just like the leopard cane, you aren’t limited by the colors you choose for making your zebra prints. So feel free to Go Wild!

Also included in this Volume-024 back issue package is the A-Series recipe cards from the Stargazer Lily Color Palette.

To read feedback from members who have already benefited from the videos and recipes in this Vol-024 back issue package, click here: Ivy Leaf Charm | Leopard Cane | UV Epoxy Resin | Zebra 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-024, 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.

“Resin is pretty versatile. You can
use it for so many things
beyond clay too. Can’t wait
to find out the outcome of
your tests Cindy!” ~DJ

Back in January, I posted some initial thoughts about a UV curing epoxy resin called UltraDome. As a result of the positive feedback and encouragement you guys provided at that time, I have since continued to test the product with various polymer clay jewelry projects.

I have never used any kind of resin for any kind of craft so I am eager to learn more. Learning this from you Cindy will mean it is something I will be able to accomplish. So please play away and share with us in that magical way you always do. I for one can’t wait to see what you bring to us. Love and Uuuuuuuugggggggs, ~Peggy-B

Well, this is interesting – something totally new to me. Is the purpose to protect the finish of the polymer when using powders, inks foils, etc? ~Rose-M

Sounds likes the stuff they use when I get my nails done… they are called “gel nails” but really when it’s cured under a UV light it’s a very strong clear plastic. The gel-like material it painted onto the nails in coats and then cured under the UV light after each coat… it’s sandable, very shiny, and very durable. I actually wonder if the material would be compatible with polymer clay every time I get my nails done. ~Melinda-H

Neat, looking forward to seeing what you find out. I’ve been wondering lately if resin-coating polymer clay roses would make them more durable. Mine seem to be prone to breakage. ~Katie-C

Great, Cindy! I can’t until you figure this out for us.
~Catalina

With the goal of keeping the equipment costs as low as possible for you guys, my testing has been done with an inexpensive Judikins  Soliel UV Lamp that I purchased online from JoAnn’s using a 50% off coupon.

Even though this lamp is compact, the pass through design does allow you to work with larger pieces as well. However, its 9 watt light source (single bulb) is really far too small… because it takes over an hour to properly cure the Ultradome UV resin with it.

There is also a larger 36 watt lamp unit available (4 x 9 watt bulbs). Although more expensive, it is a much better option since it reduces the curing time down to a reasonable 20 minutes.

Terry Morris, the owner of the UltraDome UV Resin Company, recently sent me an email about the new UV oven that he is just now starting to market to crafters and jewelry makers…

Our UltraDome lights are the lowest cost for what they are… industrial lights meant to be used every day in a production environment. And they will last a lifetime. Our nearest competitor starts at $2,000 and up. Our new light sells for $69 and comes with 4 – 9 watt bulbs. It will cure the epoxy in the 20 minute time. ~Terry-M

Anyway, other than having a slow lamp right now, I have to say that I LOVE Terry’s UltraDome resin product!

Just look how pretty it makes that simple Johnny Jump-Up Pansy Cane slice look in this pendant. From working with this stuff, I found UltraDome UV Resin to be: Easy to work with. Has no bad smells. Gives you tons of open working time so that you can get everything set just right. There are very few bubbles. Bubbles are easy to pop with a torch or a lighter. Doesn’t pull from the sides. Domes beautifully. Cures quickly with a 36 watt lamp. Is crystal clear. Compatible with polymer clay. Less expensive than competitive products. Makes your jewelry pieces look awesome!

Really I can’t say enough good things about it! And no… Terry did not pay me to say that. But he was kind enough to send me a sample bottle of his Ultradome resin for testing purposes.

He also gave me a squeeze applicator bottle and a UV protected storage container. I love the applicator. It makes it super easy to put on the resin. Way nicer than trying to drizzle on with a pop sickle stick!

There are actually several jewelry resin products on the market today. Some of them require a UV Light for curing (no mixing required), which is how the UltraDome product works.

Others use a two-part epoxy mixing process for initiating the hardening process. Unfortunately I have not yet had the opportunity to test any of the other brands yet.

But… I am ready to teach you what I have learned so far… about applying beautifully smooth and glossy layers of uv cured resin over polymer clay, using the UltraDome product.

So… as long as the general consensus is still positive (please let me know in the comment section below), the UV Resin tutorial will be included in the May, Vol-024 video line up at the members library next month.

Can’t wait to hear your thoughts about this new Ultradome UV Resin product. I really would like something that doesn’t pull away from the sides. Hope this new stuff is easier to use. I ordered some today. ~Bonnie-K

I’m going to wait for Cindy’s tests to be done, though. I know when her video comes out, it will show me how to use resin in the simplest way (you know how she “makes the mistakes, so we don’t have to…”). ~Phaedrakat

Looking forward to hearing about this UltraDome Product, Cindy. I played with resin last year, but I was not happy with it. I even tried to make a well to hold it from going down the sides, but it only puddled along the sides of the well. If this UltraDome works well, that would be awesome. ~Lupe-M

I tried another resin brand and was disappointed with my results. I also found the resin likes to collect in the center and it’s hard to get a smooth coating without bubbles and unfilled valleys. I need to save my money and get a UV lamp. ~Maria-C

I sure hope this product works well. No mixing is so appealing. I’d love to see different ways to combine it with clay. Resin is pretty versatile You can use it for so many things beyond clay too. Can’t wait to find out the outcome of your tests Cindy! ~DJ

Updated Schedule for the 4-part, May-2010, Volume-024 series:

(1) Cane Making: Leopard Print Cane [confirmed]
(2) Bead Shapes: Ivy Leaf Charm [confirmed]
(3) Clay Techniques: UV Resin Technique [proposed]
(4) Special Projects: [to be determined]