Video #231: “Cindy, I am excited that you incorporate mixed media with your polymer clay tutorials since I am a big admirer of mixed media art jewelry.” ~JoAnna-G

One of the coolest things about polymer clay (sorry about starting to sound like a broken record with that opening, but I really do mean it each time), is that many of the tools and supplies designed for other craft mediums, can also be used with polymer clay.

For example, today I’m going to talk about paper punches for creating cool polymer shapes from thin sheets of clay. Not only are these paper punched polymer pieces (say that three times fast), more durable than card stock for using in your scrap booking projects, but they also will work great in many beading and jewelry projects.

This opens up a whole new world of possibilities for polymer clay!

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. ~Karen-B

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

I can’t wait to see how you incorporate these supplies into polymer clay. 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

It opens the door to so much creativity… using so many media’s… especially all that ‘stuff’ I bought from the scrapbooking section! “Mixed media” jewelry is pretty popular these days… but polymer clay has been ‘rolling like that’ for quite some time! Our friendly medium has always ‘played nice’ with other craft and jewelry supplies, and this tutorial is a reminder of that. ~Phaedrakat

So… coming up tomorrow (Friday, November 25th2011) in the Vol-042-4 members video at the Polymer Clay Tutor Library, I’m going to teach you how to make awesome little stamped out beads and embellishments out of thin sheets of polymer clay that you can use to make jewelry and all kinds of other cool projects.

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

Supplies & Tools: Video-042-4 Paper Punched Polymer:

• Strong and flexible polymer clay. I used: 5003 Denim Premo Sculpey.
• Large Paper Punches. I used the Perfect Petals Lever Punch. Other options for punches are decorative or plain scissors, hole punches and various kinds of hand held punches.
• Pasta Machine.
• Texture Sheets (optional).
• Water mister bottle (optional).
• Cardstock for baking.

The full version of the Vol-042-4 Paper Punched Polymer video will be posted in the Polymer Clay Members Library on Friday November 25, 2011.

Here’s a sneak peak…

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

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

Customer Feedback About Membership Value:

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

This video illustrates perfectly what I love so much about your tutorials Cindy. And that is how much you really give us each week for our tiny membership fee. Not only did you show how to use rubber stamps for a great look. But you also showed how to make several types of beads AND how to antique them to highlight the effect even more. That’s three great techniques in just one video. There isn’t a better value for your money to be found anywhere else on the web. And believe me I have looked. ~Jamie-H

Someone is complaining about the cost of the videos??????????? You’ve got to be kidding me. Nothing on this computer 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, Paper Punched Polymer video tutorial:

• See examples of beads, earrings, a hair clip and other ideas using paper punched polymer pieces.
• Find out how simple it is to create these designer focal pieces for your handmade jewelry projects.
• Learn cool tricks for making these unique polymer cutouts in a variety of textures and patterns.
• Plus, with some creativity and ingenuity, there are many ways to come up with other unique designs of your own.

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

Video #228: “As far as tutorials are concerned, I would love to learn more about transfers and working with liquid clay.” ~Christl-P

Don’t you just love the nostalgia of a hand tinted, vintage photo? I sure do. What if you could take that old fashioned technique, and use it with modern materials… like say polymer clay? Wouldn’t that be cool? Of course it would!

Well, now you can, using this neat image transfer technique that uses a regular black & white photocopied image, and some other simple supplies you may already have on hand.

Cindy, I would love to learn how to do transfers on polymer. I have seen so many beautiful beads made from them. Not only flat beads but tube type beads. I have a laser jet printer that does not have color printing. My husband prefers it that way. This would be a good topic for a future tutorial. Thanks. ~Carolyn-K

Have to agree with Carolyn K… a tute on polymer transfers would be awesome! I joined fairly recently and am LOVING the tutes! Cindy has such a great way of explaining her techniques, and I’ve had great results so far. Friday mornings are such a treat -thanks Cindy, you have a real talent for teaching!! ~Lesley-S

I am just about to start experimenting with the transferring of images onto clay. I am so happy I came across your site. Thanks so much. ~Lisa-C

So… coming up tomorrow (Friday, November 4, 2011) in the Vol-042-1 members video at the Polymer Clay Tutor Library, I will teach you how to do unique colored transfers onto polymer clay… great for making vintage Christmas ornaments, gift tags and jewelry.

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

Supplies & Tools: Video-042-1 Hand Tinted Photo Transfers:

• Polymer clay in any light color. I used: 55057 Frost White Glitter Premo Sculpey.
• Pasta Machine or Acrylic Roller.
• Black & White Photocopy or Laser Printed Copyright/Royalty-Free Image (must be toner based NOT inkjet based copy).
• Pencil Crayons.
• Scissors.
• Sculpey Clay Softener (optional but will give a higher success rate).
• Spray Bottle filled with cold water.
• Small smooth ceramic tile for working on (optional but very handy).
• Adirondack Alcohol Ink in Butterscotch (optional).
• Rubbing Alcohol and Paper Towels.

The full version of the Vol-042-1 Tinted Photo Transfers video will be posted in the Polymer Clay Members Library on Friday Nov 4, 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 “Tinted Photo Transfers” preview video shown above, is now available for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Volume-042 Back Issue Package.

Customer Feedback About Membership Value:

Oh my oh my I don’t know where to begin. THANK YOU BOTH is a good start, though I wish I could do more than just thank you because you deserve so much more. Once again the filming was awesome Doug. Cindy you continue to amaze me beyond words. You have taken a technique I enjoy and stepped it up not just a notch but beyond imagination. You challenge our imaginations to inspire above what we ever thought possible. I wish I could shake every PC lover out that does not join your tutes and convince them what they are missing. Even if they just got a fraction of what I do they would be inspired beyond their wildest dreams. So much for so little you PC addicts. Thanks and Uuuuggs. ~Peggy-B

Cindy, you work so hard… I can’t imagine everything it takes to provide 2 gorgeous palettes each month, as well as a fresh new video tute every week. Plus, you keep it all running smoothly, and offer helpful, friendly advice. Thank you! I do try to leave feedback and/or a thank-you comment on each of these palette threads (and tutorial posts, too.) Once in awhile I get busy and forget. On those occasions, please know I’m still enormously grateful! I get a huge smile on my face every time I open your newsletter and see the goodies inside. I love you, dear Cindy… and your wonderful work! You’re a giving soul, and you’re so, SO appreciated! I think most everyone would LOVE a membership here, if only they’d just try it! $10 for 3 months of videos (1 per week) is such an incredible deal. If they signed up, they’d be bona fide admirers too. ~Phaedrakat

Any tute you can get here is worth the money!! ~Catalina

The following topics are included in this week’s Polymer Clay Tutor Library, Hand Tinted Image Transfers video tutorial:

• See examples of Christmas Tags/Ornaments using several different Hand Tinted Photo designs.
• Discussion of the tools, supplies and techniques needed to create this wonderful vintage photo transfer technique.
• Find out how improve your image transfer success by using this unique clay supply. Never heard of any other polymer clay artist using this cool trick!
• Find out tips for cleaning up imperfections after doing the transfer, and tips on avoiding them in the first place.
• Plus, with some creativity and ingenuity, there are many ways to come up with other unique designs of your own.

The full version of the “Tinted Photo Transfers” preview video shown above, is now available for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Volume-042 Back Issue Package.
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Video Tutorials:
1: Pandora Style Beads
2: Crackled Paint
3: Wire Riveting Intro
4: Dandelion Ghost Cane

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Video #216: “At over $6 per color (plus S&H), to buy paints that’ll crackle on your clay, I couldn’t help but think there must be a better way!” ~Cindy Lietz

More often than not, the answer to a complicated problem is usually super simple. I’m talking so dead simple that you wonder why there was even a problem in the first place.

This was the case with my crackled paint technique. Well, not really the crackling part since that is something that many other clayers have been doing quite successfully for a while now. But rather… which paints to recommend for using with your polymer clay.

The problem you see, is that not all acrylic paints work for crackling on clay. Some crack well but tend to flake off. Others are too flexible and just keep stretching, not cracking at all. Sure there are products that work beautifully, but they tend to be on the expensive side at over $6.00 per color. And the paint brands that work can be hard to find, which usually means extra costs to have the product shipped.

Whenever possible, I try to avoid teaching techniques using materials that are difficult to source. But I still really wanted to teach you the Crackled Paint technique, because it is such a simple thing to learn, and it looks so fantastic.

Then it hit me… as I was was stirring the color around in one of my containers of metallic paint. I thought, why not just use readily available polymer clay supplies and materials to mix up metallic paints in any color that you choose!?

This way you know the they will be compatible…. AND since batches can be mixed up in small amounts, it would hardly cost a thing to have tons of colors. What could be simpler than that!?!!

To make this long story short, the answer I was searching for was right under my nose… and I would like to share it with all of you!

You always come up with the most inexpensive way to get around things. ~Bette-L

Cindy – I really appreciate your cost-cutting tips. Thanks for everything. ~Sherry-L

Cindy has this uncanny knack of taking a complex technique and simplifying the process. ~Cara-L

So… coming up tomorrow (Friday August 12th 2011) in the Vol-039-2 members video at the Polymer Clay Tutor Library, not only will I be demonstrating how to get the stunning Crackled Paint affect on your polymer clay projects, but I will also share my unique recipe for making metallic acrylic paints that work perfectly with this popular technique. Mystery solved!

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

Supplies & Tools: Video-039-2 Crackled Paint Technique:

• Polymer clay in color of your choice. For the demo I used, Black 5042 Premo Sculpey
• Pearl Ex Pigment Powders or other fine mica powder of your choice.
• Paintbrushes, water, paper towel.
• Empty paint pots or small containers.
• Small spatula or spoon for mixing.
• Pasta Machine or acrylic roller.
• Blow dryer (optional).
• Sculpey Glossy Glaze.
• Optional supplies depending on what you want to make with your crackled clay sheet or veneer: Scrap clay; Cookie cutters; Clay blade; Bead rack and piercing pins; Clay mat’ UV Resin, Bezels; Etc. etc., etc.

The full version of the Vol-039-2 Crackled Paint Technique video will be posted in the Polymer Clay Members Library on Friday Aug 12, 2011. But if you would like to see a sneak peek intro clip right now, scroll down the page a bit to the video player below.

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

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

Customer Feedback About Membership Value:

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

Thank you very much for the beginner course videos too. They are really helpful. It was money well spent. Sincerely. ~Sharon-D

I don’t know how you come up with these ideas, but I praise God every Friday for giving the two of you your special gifts. You start us on the path of a new creation with endless possibilities every Friday. The love you have for your art and your students comes out in our Awesome lessons and every 3 months in our bills. Am I grateful for the low cost… yes! BUT I think and would not be upset in anyway if you feel you should raise your fees. There is nowhere else on or off the internet you could get a lesson half this good for twice the money. I know becasue I have taken many lessons on-line and in studio’s and classrooms. I have learned more from you for a fraction of the money. I have not met a person yet who doesn’t like to save money and time. How about you???? Come on join NOW!!!!! I promise you won’t regret one minute or cent of it. Hurry. Thanks for another super Friday team Lietz!!!! Many Uuuuuuuuggggggggs. ~Peggy-B

The following topics are included in this week’s Polymer Clay Tutor Library, Crackled Paint Technique video tutorial:

• See several examples of the Crackled Paint Technique used in a variety of colors, shapes and designs including earrings, cabochons, beads, Pandora style beads, and bezels.
• Discussion of the tools, supplies and techniques needed to create this simple and stunning polymer clay technique.
• Find out how to make your own gorgeous metallic paints that can be used on any polymer clay project, for a fraction of the cost of regular metallic acrylic mediums that you’ll want to make it in tons of colors!
• Learn cool tricks for getting the look of a crackled metallic finish that is not only beautiful but easy to do.
• Plus, with some creativity and ingenuity, there are many ways to come up with other unique designs of your own.

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

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Video Tutorials:
1: Sculpted Iris Beads
2: Faux Stoneware
3: Peacock Cane Part 1
4: Peacock Cane Part 2

Well another month has gone by and the Volume-037 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 June, 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-037 Package:

Video-037-1 Sculpted Iris Beads: With the popularity of sculpted flower beads,  these Sculpted Iris Bead really fits the bill. They are easy to do, yet oh so intricate looking. With a small amount of clay and tools, you’ll be sculpting these gorgeous flower beads in no time!

Video-037-2 Faux Stoneware: The beauty of polymer clay is that it is the great pretender. It will mimic all kinds of materials including metal, glass and stone. One thing it does really well, is copy the look of ceramic and stoneware. This faux polymer clay technique achieves that glassy glazed look of stoneware or ceramic, in one easy step. I think you are really going to enjoy how real it looks and how simple it is to do.

Video-037-3 Peacock Cane Part 1: Inspired by the colors and the intricate details of real Peacock Feathers, this Intermediate Level Cane Design, is sure to please. Part 1 of this tutorial takes you through the color choices and blends you will need to make in order to build this lovely cane, as well the beginning stages of the cane construction. Good basic knowledge of canework as well as an in depth understanding of the Teardrop Blend, is a pre-requisite for success in creating this cane.

Video-037-4 Peacock Cane Part 2: This second part of the Peacock Cane Tutorial, continues on with the layering and combining of the different cane elements that go into completing this beautiful cane.

Also included in this Volume-037 back issue package, are the A-Series recipe cards from the St John’s Wort Palette.

To read feedback from members who have already benefited from the videos and recipes in this Vol-037 back issue package, click here: Sculpted Iris Beads | Faux Stoneware | Peacock Cane Pt1 | Peacock Cane Pt 2

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-037, I would love to hear from you. Or if you have not yet purchased this back issue and have a question, ask away. In either case, use the comments section below.

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Vid #207: “I love the
fact that many things I
have learned using polymer
clay can transition nicely
to ceramics.” ~Carol-C

The beauty of polymer clay is that it is the great pretender. It will mimic all kinds of materials including metal, glass and stone. One thing it does really well, is copy the look of ceramic and stoneware.

Many polymer clay artists have their own way of getting the look of faux ceramic and stoneware, using a variety of different techniques. Most of them use liquid polymer clay. I find that although the liquid polymer does give wonderful look, it still lacks the shine of real ceramic or stoneware glaze. So a further finish is usually needed.

I have come up with a faux stoneware or ceramic technique that gets that glassy glazed look, in one easy step. I think you are really going to enjoy it.

I’ve always admired the finish on ceramics and am very excited to learn how to do it! I must add that your videos are worth MORE than every penny a membership costs. Especially to me. I live in a very rural area and your tutes make me feel as if I am visiting your studio without leaving my own home. Well done, and thanks. ~Sue-W

Polymer clay is an amazing medium – you can make it look like so many cool materials (like stone, wood, ceramics, etc.). The finish of each clay is slightly different right after baking… but you can change it quite a bit by sanding, buffing, applying glazes, powders, paint, resin, etc. ~Phaedrakat

So coming up tomorrow (Friday June 10th, 2011) in the Vol-037-2 video at the Polymer Clay Library, I’ll be demonstrating how to make super easy and very realistic Faux Stoneware/Ceramic Pendants and charms using the brand new Granite Clay from the Premo Sculpey Accents line.

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

Supplies & Tools: Video-037-2 Faux Stoneware:

• Premo Sculpey Accents Granite clay in the color of your choice (5065 Gray Granite, 5061 White Granite and/or 5059 Blue Granite). You can also custom mix your stoneware clay, by mixing one or more of the granite clays and tinting with Premo Ecru or Raw Sienna clays. As an alternative, you could just use a plain colored clay like White, but the look will be more of a ceramic or porcelain look, rather than stoneware.
• Mold, rubber stamps, texture plates, etc., for pressing clay into to get a pattern or design. Something with a lot of texture is good, so the glaze has little places to sit into. I used a deeply etched glass plate as my mold, but you can be as creative as you wish on this one.
• Small round cutter or straw for making hole.
• Acrylic block, or a smooth flat surface to press with. This will make sense when you see the video.
• Water Spritzer (optional but handy as a mold release agent). Don’t use cornstarch in this technique. It will interfere with the glaze. I got my little mister from Terry Morris at epoxyjewelry.com. It was super cheap, has a nice fine mist and is very handy for many techniques.
• Sculpey Glossy Glaze. There are a few different packaging designs out there including one in a glass bottle. Just make sure it is the milky looking glaze, and that it says you can bake it. Also make sure to get the Glossy version and not the Satin version for this particular technique. It is possible for other types of finishes to work as well, but you will have to experiment with that on your own, since I have not tried others myself. If you have found an alternative, do let us know.
• Chalk Pastels. Not the oily kind of pastels.
• Palette knife or clay blade.
• Soft artists paintbrush and water for cleaning.
• Non-stick surface for baking on such as the Sculpey Work and Bake Clay Mat, a piece of parchment paper, or a glassy ceramic tile. Don’t bake on a regular sheet of paper for this technique.
• Folded cardstock or parchment for tenting while baking.
  

The full version of the Vol-037-2 Faux Stoneware video will be posted in the Polymer Clay Members Library on Friday June 10, 2011. But if you would like to see a sneak peek intro clip right now, scroll down the page a bit to the video player below.

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

The full version of the “Faux Stoneware” preview video shown above, is now available for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Volume-037 Back Issue Package.

Customer Feedback About Membership Value:

I have tried just about every medium and craft there is out there and this is the best by far and You and Doug are a very BIG reason for that. I have come a long way since that first video. I have them all from the beginners on. I suggest anyone who joins even if you have clayed for awhile purchase the beginners video. I still refer to it from time to time. Cindy your tutorials are worth there weight in gold and I value you them just that much. Anyone out there thinking about joining don’t think, just do it join today the cost is $3 something a month and you get 4 tutes a month. I don’t even know where you can get one tutorial for that amount do you?????? To beat that if you have any questions about it, they will get answered by Cindy or one of your fellow clayers. We are one big family here all ready to help each other when we can. You won’t find anything better out there. Thanks again Cindy and Doug. Many Uuuuggggs. ~Peggy-B

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

Hi Cindy – I just wanted to say that I would have never even started polymer claying if I hadn’t taken your beginning Tutorial class. I had no idea where to start. The price was incredibly low! Michael’s offers no classes in my area (suburban Chicago, Il) and even if they did, they would not begin to include all the information you teach in your Tutorials. I learned everything I needed to know to get started. Then I wasn’t afraid to dig in and GO! The videos are very clear and concise and you presented them so well that I know exactly what to do. I have since purchased many books (second hand from Amazon marketplace) and their instructions are very unclear, although I have been able to learn and see many new things from them. But your instructions are A#1! And your price is unbelievable! Thank you Cindy, for providing such wonderful tutorials! I learned so much and I have since purchased almost all of the back issues of the library videos and have joined the club too! I continue to learn everyday and play with the clay almost every day. ~Connie-R

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

• See several examples of Faux Stoneware Pendants in a variety of colors, shapes and designs.
• Discussion of the tools and techniques needed to create this simple and stunning polymer clay technique.
• Learn cool tricks for getting the look of a glazed ceramic/stoneware piece, without the complicated process, tools and kiln needed in making real stoneware jewelry pieces.
• Plus, with some creativity and ingenuity, there are many ways to come up with other unique designs of your own.

The full version of the “Faux Stoneware” preview video shown above, is now available for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Volume-037 Back Issue Package.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Vid #205: “I get
totally lost when I’m
claying, time has no
meaning.” ~Polyanya

Last week I taught you how to create your own wire leaf charms that can be used as components for your polymer clay jewelry projects. And as promised, this week I will demonstrate how to add polymer clay to your leaf charms, in a bunch of different ways.

It’s so cool that polymer clay is versatile enough that we can use it to create so many different things. ~Silverleaf

Maybe I should just quit my daytime job so I could have enough time to try out all the techniques I have on my ever-growing list! ~Susan-B

So irregardless of whether you decide to quite you day job or not, coming up tomorrow (Friday May 27th, 2011) in the Vol-036-4 video at the Polymer Clay Library, I’ll be demonstrating how to make super easy and creative polymer clay and wire leaf charms for all your artistic jewelry projects.

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

Supplies & Tools: Video-036-4 Adding Clay to Leaf Charms:

• Wire Leaf Charms. I taught you how to make these in last week’s tutorial.
• Rubbing alcohol. Used for cleaning wire charms. Especially important if you plan to finish with a UV resin coating.
• Leaf Canes. I used the Veined Leaf Cane we learned in Vol-012-3. But you can use any leaf cane of your choice.
• Sculpey Bake and Bond. You could use Translucent Liquid Sculpey (TLS) instead, but the Bake and Bond does work a bit better for this technique.
• Sculpey Work and Bake Clay Mat. Optional but very handy, especially when using liquid clays and alcohol inks. I love this product and talk more about it in the video.
  
• Alcohol Inks and Q-Tips (optional).
• Ceramic tile for baking on. Preferably with crisp square edges.
• Clay Blade.
• Sanding Kit or Micro-Mesh Pads (optional).
• Piece of paper with printed text on it (optional).
• Acrylic paints (optional).
• Scissors (optional).
• Polymerized Cloth (optional).
  

The full version of the Vid-036-4 Adding Clay to Leaf Charms video, will be posted in the Polymer Clay Members Library on Friday May 27, 2011. But if you would like to see a sneak peek intro clip right now, scroll down the page a bit to the video player below.

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

The full version of the “Add Clay to Leaf Charms” preview video shown above, is now avail for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Volume-036 Back Issue Package.

Customer Feedback About Membership Value:

If you’re new here, please give it a try. The quality of the videos is fantastic, and Cindy’s method of teaching is just wonderful. She always has something new and fun to share with us. Membership is about 80 cents a video ($9.95 each 3 months.) It’s the best deal out there! ~Phaedrakat

Just watched another tute and I have to THANK Cindy and Doug for another great idea passed on to all of us at very little cost. More and more of that sweet Lietz giving and asking very little in return. You two are the best!!!! Many Uuuuuggggs. ~Peggy-B

Somehow or another I have never come across your website before Cindy. Until last night! I finally decided to subscribe today. I just watched my very first video, the feather cane, incredible! And you make it look so easy! I have been hand sculpting little clay animals and such for years. But lately I have found myself drawn to the beautiful clay beads that I see. I desperately want to broaden my knowledge of polymer clay art. I know the basics, and I know how to put balls of clay together to make animals and flowers, but I want to know the techniques to make the fancy looking stuff too. None of the books I have looked at really give great instructions or a wide variety of projects. Thank you so much for offering such wonderful tutorials, such a wide variety of project ideas, and at such a great price. ~Anita-M

The following topics are included in this week’s Polymer Clay Tutor Library, Add Clay to Your Wire Leaf Charms video tutorial:

• See several examples of leaf charms created using polymer clay and wire.
• Discussion of the tools and techniques needed to create this simple and stunning polymer clay technique.
• Learn cool tricks for getting the polymer clay to stay embedded in the wire leaf forms.
• Plus, with some creativity and ingenuity, there are many ways to come up with other unique designs of your own.

The full version of the “Add Clay to Leaf Charms” preview video shown above, is now avail for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Volume-036 Back Issue Package.

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Vid #203: “You don’t
understand anything
until you learn it more than
one way.” ~Marvin Minsky

Last week I showed how to do Faux Metal Mokume Gane in the Volume 036-1 video tutorial. We used a bunch of the gorgeous new metallic colors from the Premo Accents line.

And before that, way way back in Volume 002-4, I demonstrated the more traditional, Stacked Mokume Gane Technique. It was so long ago that I even misspelled Gane as Gani in the video title bar. Oops!

This week we’ll focus on Rolled Translucent Mokume Gane Canes. So as you can see, “…there’s more than one way to skin a cat.” (ewww…)

Now since I strongly oppose the notion of harming cats for the sake of education (actually for ANY reason), I decided to Google some friendlier sayings to help make my point. Here’s what I found…

You don’t understand anything until you learn it more than one way. ~Marvin Minsky

Each day learn something new, and just as important, relearn something old. ~Robert Brault

Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at twenty or eighty. ~Henry Ford

It’s what you learn after you know it all that counts.
~Harry Truman

Learning is a treasure that will follow its owner everywhere. ~Chinese Proverb

And my personal favorite… partly because of the fellow’s first name, LOL… and a lot because it really does a nice job of summing up my teaching style…

You can teach a student a lesson for a day; but if you can teach him (her) to learn by creating curiosity, he (she) will continue the learning process as long as he (she) lives.
~Clay Bedford

So… tomorrow (Friday May 13th, 2011) in the Vol-036-2 video at the Polymer Clay Library, I’ll be demonstrating how to make an easy, fun and great looking Rolled Translucent Mokume Gane Cane. You will be able to use it in an unlimited number of ways for your polymer clay bead and pendant making projects.

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

Supplies & Tools: Video-036-2 Rolled Mokume Gane:

• 2 colors of translucent polymer clay. In the demo I used 1/2 sections of both the new Red Translucent Premo and the Blue Translucent. Plus I show jewelry and beads made with a Blue and Green Translucent combo, and a Red and Yellow Translucent combo. As an alternative to using the premixed translucent colors, you could tint your own translucent clays with either tiny pieces of solid colored clays, or alcohol inks.
• Knowledge of making a Teardrop Blend.
• Silver Leaf or another Metal Leaf of your choice (optional but desirable).
• White Frost Glitter Premo Clay (optional but desirable). As an alternative you could mix some of your own glitter clay using 1 part White Premo, 1 part White Translucent Premo and some oven safe glitter. If you wanted, you could use a different colored glitter clay for a totally different look.
• Pasta Machine and/or acrylic roller.
• Clay Blade.
• Scissors (optional but handy).

The full version of the Vid-036-2 Rolled Mokume Gane video, will be posted in the Polymer Clay Members Library on Friday May 13, 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 “Rolled Mokume Gane” preview video shown above, is now available for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Volume-036 Back Issue Package.

Customer Feedback About Membership Value:

You won’t find better – or less expensive – videos any where. Cindy’s videos are Class AAA. Her husband, Doug, does the filming. They make a great team and have a way of making it seem as if I were right in the room looking over Cindy’s shoulder. ~Carolyn-F

Cindy, your videos are well worth the money even though I am not one to make beads. The information is good for all aspects of working with polymer clay. I have bought quite a few of your videos and subscribe to the weekly videos which I look forward to. I have read polymer clay info but seeing you do it makes all the difference to me. Thanks. ~Jean-B

Cindy, Your polymer clay fundamentals course was well worth the price. I got some good ideas… like the saran wrap for making beveled edges. This improved my polymer clay buttons immensely! I loved the bonus videos. And I also liked you’re info on mixing colors. Very interesting how different brands mix differently. I’m always trying to think of new ideas, no matter what materials. Thanks. ~Joan-D

The following topics are included in this week’s Polymer Clay Tutor Library, Rolled Mokume Gane video tutorial:

• See several examples of beads, pendants and earrings that were made using the Rolled Mokume Gane Cane.
• Discussion of the tools and techniques needed to create this simple and stunning polymer clay technique.
• Learn cool tricks for getting the look of layered rings of metal leaf, glitter and translucent colored clays.
• Plus, with some creativity and ingenuity, there are many ways to come up with other unique designs of your own.

The full version of the “Rolled Mokume Gane” preview video shown above, is now available for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Volume-036 Back Issue Package.

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Vid #202: “I have read
how to do the Mokume
Gane technique and still
couldn’t picture it!! Your
tutorials make it much easier!” ~Kam-K

With all the cool new Metallic Colors now available through the Premo Accents line, I thought it would be the perfect time to revisit the polymer clay Mokume Gane Technique. This week I will be teaching a version that looks more like the traditional Japanese Metalsmithing, for which it mimics.

Real Mokume Gane is an ancient metal technique used for making Samurai Swords. It was designed to recreate the look of wood grain. Different types of metals such as Silver, Copper, Bronze, Gold, Iron, etc., are layered and fused together in a block, which is then hammered, stamped or carved. Finally, thin sheets or veneers are sliced off, and used to make jewelry, swords and other precious artworks.

Polymer clay artists have it way easier than the traditional Mokume Gane artist. Clay is much softer and simpler to layer, and the tools aren’t expensive or complicated to use either. Now I’m not saying that polymer clay mokume gane is anywhere near being in the same league as the real thing. But done right, the faux clay version can end up looking very realistic. It is a technique that is definitely worth adding to your polymer clay skill set.

It’s funny – once I’d visited a blog by a jeweler. He was talking about polymer clay artists who mimic his work in doing mokume gane. He thought the work was inferior. Which intrigued me. Okay, so I went to look at his gallery. You know what? I think our mokume gane, with it’s rich variety of color, was nicer than his work. He did a fine job, don’t get me wrong. But I think polymer clay mokume gane offers a wider variety of opportunity and in my opinion, not nearly close to inferior. ~Charlene-T

I just started beading a couple of months ago – but I knew immediately that I wasn’t happy with what I was making and it was because it just wasn’t me. I wanted beads that ‘said something’ and it was obvious that they weren’t available. Flipping through a beading magazine one day, I came across a bracelet that a mother and daughter team had made out of mokume gane. It impressed me enough to make me stop and take a closer look. I knew right then and there that I needed to be making my own beads so that I could make my own statement. ~Aims

Visiting this site inspires me to try to go higher and work harder in mastering this polymer clay art form. All the pieces shown at this blog are gorgeous, but the mokume gane ones are sending me back to try the technique again, one I sort of put aside because I have never really liked my outcomes. ~Elizabeth-S

Love all your videos so far and have really gotten into making some simple Mokume Gane pendants. Just on the first stage of sanding, but it is making a HUGE difference in how they look as opposed to just putting varnish on them. Thank you so much for your time! ~Dawna-M

I was trying to practice my Mokume Gane cane for an upcoming class and wasn’t sure what to try it on, so I covered a small stainless steel utility pocket knife (only on one side) and wow… it really dressed up the knife. I gave them to my nephews and brother-in-laws for Christmas. This is why I just love polymer clay! ~Lupe-M

Hi, thought your first mokume gane video was really helpful. I’m new to polymer clay and I’ve wanted to have a go but found the picture instructions at other sites, quite hard to get a grasp of. Actually seeing someone do the technique in video has made a big difference. Thanks very much. ~Debbie-G

Just wanted to say thanks for the great video. I have read how to do the Mokume Gane technique and still couldn’t picture it!! Your tutorials make it much easier! Thanks!
~Kam-K

So… coming up tomorrow (Friday May 6th, 2011) in the Vol-036-1 Faux Metal Mokume Gane video at the Polymer Clay Library, I will share some more tips and tricks for creating this amazingly simple and beautiful technique that you can easily master in an afternoon!

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

Supplies & Tools: Video-036-1 Faux Metal Mokume Gane:

• Polymer Clay in Metallic Colors. In the video I show several examples of Faux Metal Mokume Gane made using different metal combinations. For the actual demo, a combination of Premo clays in Gold, 18K Gold and Antique Gold was used. Similar to the real technique, you can use any metal color combination of your choice. Some excellent color choices in the Premo Accents line are: Gold, 18 K Gold, Antique Gold, Bronze, Silver, and Copper (the new one and/or the old discontinued one). As an alternative any brand of metallic clay will do.
• Side Note: In one of the close-ups in the video with the Silver Copper and Bronze clay, I actually pointed to a sample of the new Bronze Clay and called it Copper and called the new Copper, Bronze. Funny thing is I did it correctly when I showed all the colors near the beginning… must have been too excited to show you the technique :-)
• Acrylic Roller.
• Pasta Machine (optional).
• Clay Blade.
• Large Ball Stylus such as the Sculpey Style & Detail Tools (optional).

The full version of the Vid-036-1 Faux Metal Mokume Gane video, will be posted in the Polymer Clay Members Library on Friday May 6, 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 “Faux Metal Mokume” preview video shown above, is now available for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Volume-036 Back Issue Package.

Customer Feedback About Membership Value:

Wonderful teardrop blend tutorial! It is worth every single penny!! Thanks Cindy. ~Monica-D

Not only is this site worth every penny. It’s worth MORE than the pennies we spend! Luckily, Cindy’s not greedy… she makes membership ridiculously inexpensive, so that anyone can join. The only thing I’ve ever regretted was waiting to join (missed out on those tutes!) Of course, I went back and bought the videos I missed anyway (had to have ‘em – so good!) but at the library price. If I’d joined right away, I could’ve had them for the even cheaper membership price of $3.32 per month! OK, I’ll be quiet now. ~Phaedrakat

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

The following topics are included in this week’s Polymer Clay Tutor Library, Faux Metal Mokume Gane video tutorial:

• See examples of several Beads and jewelry projects made using a variety of different Faux Metal Mokume Gane blocks.
• Discussion of the tools and materials needed to create your own version of the technique.
• Learn how to quickly and easily mimic the traditional Japanese Metal Technique with a super simple Polymer Clay version.
• And of course, tips on how to use this technique to get exactly the unique look you want!

The full version of the “Faux Metal Mokume” preview video shown above, is now available for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Volume-036 Back Issue Package.

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