Vid #190: “Sure
would like to see
someone tackle a bead
or clay fabric mimic-ing
the Aurora Borealis.”
~Jocelyn-C

Well I am beside myself with excitement to be able to share another original Cindy Lietz Exclusive with all of you guys. This one is called the Aurora Technique! Named after the stunning natural phenomenon known as the Aurora Borealis, or the Northern Lights, which this polymer clay technique mimics beautifully.

Here is a beautiful time lapse video clip from Vimeo, that I wanted to share to help set the stage for this post…

I have seen the Northern Lights myself only once, when I lived for a short time in Edmonton, Alberta Canada as a child. It was an amazing show of rainbow colored lights that danced in the northern night sky. The conditions need to be just right for them to appear. It was an event I will never forget.

Like a rainbow that appears briefly after a storm, the Aurora Borealis is one of those fleeting gifts from Mother Nature, that makes you stop and commit to memory it’s incredible beauty… knowing at any moment it will disappear from view. If you have ever been lucky enough to experience the Northern Lights in person, you will know exactly what I mean.

When I was creating this unique polymer clay technique, there were two stories in particular that came to mind… inspiration from right here within our friendly community.

We did pick out a name for our baby a while ago. Aurora Padme. Aurora because we are in Alaska and Padme because it means Lotus in Sanscrit language and it’s my favorite flower. ~Rada-F

The Aurora Borealis are commonly seen in Alaska, so I imagine their beauty is at least in part what led Rada to decide on the name for her new little baby. On a personal note for Rada… I hope this week’s tutorial will inspire you to make some Aurora beads for your daughter and your family. You may even find that many others in your community will go crazy for these beads as well.

The other snippet that kept coming to mind was Jocelyn’s interpretation of something she saw in Jon Anderson’s amazing Fimo sculptural pieces. By the way, the technique I am teaching this week has nothing to do with what Jon does. The only parallel is the reference to Northern Lights as Jocelyn points out below.

Cindy – Thanks for the link to Anderson’s work. It probably doesn’t make geographic sense but that group of penguins is stunning and the colors make me think that it’s a reflection of the aurora borealis on their chests. ~Jocelyn-C

So without anymore story telling on my part, coming up tomorrow (Friday, February 4th, 2011) at the Polymer Clay Video Library in Vol-033-1, I will demonstrate how to create this amazingly beautiful, yet surprisingly simple, polymer clay Aurora Technique.

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-033-1 Aurora Technique:

• 1 section each of the following Premo Sculpey Colors:
  - Blue Pearl
  - Gold
  - Black
  - Green Pearl
  - Red Pearl
  

Note: Polyform is discontinuing Green Pearl and Red Pearl. So if these colors are not available in your area, either mix the recipes for them using this premo color mixing guide, or replace them with the new colors, Bright Green Pearl and Magenta Pearl. Other pearl colors could also be used for this technique instead, if you choose.

• Pasta machine and/or acrylic roller.
  
• Makin’s Professional Ultimate Clay Extruder with large round die.
• Clay blade.
• Sanding and buffing supplies. Micro-mesh Pads in all the grits or a selection of Wet/Dry Sandpapers from 400 – 1200 grit. Plus a soft cloth or Dremel with felt wheel for buffing.
  

The full version of the Vid-033-1 Aurora Technique video will be posted in the Polymer Clay Members Library on Friday Feb 4th, 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 “Aurora Technique” preview video shown above, is now available for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Volume-033 Back Issue Package.

Customer Feedback About Membership Value:

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

I go back and look over the past videos for ideas, it’s like going to the supermarket and going up and down looking and thinking “now what do I want to make… OH! this looks interesting”. ~Ken-H

Cindy, I have found that your tutorials are so easy to follow and easy to understand. I prefer to learn by seeing and your videos definitely do that and more. I am so glad that I came across your website because I found that your videos and membership are so reasonably priced. Again, thanks for your hard work. ~Catherine-R

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

• See examples of several different beads and jewelry projects using the Aurora Technique.
• Discussion of the tools and clay colors needed to create this gorgeous and simple polymer clay technique.
• Learn about how simple it really is to make this unique and versatile art bead technique.
• Plus, with some creativity and ingenuity, there are many ways to come up with unique versions of your own!

The full version of the “Aurora Technique” preview video shown above, is now available for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Volume-033 Back Issue Package.

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

Vid #185: “Gingham
pattern is called a Vichy
cane on the French blogs. I
have never thought of using
it on a lentil though. Just
Beautiful!” ~Squash

Classic, Simple and Cool! That is how I would describe this neat little polymer clay cane based on the traditional fabric pattern called Gingham. And because this technique can be done using the clay extruder took, you can also add Fast to the list of attributes!

What a great pattern! I love my extruder, and I’ll have to try this pattern. ~Deidre-R

I would really like to learn this process – gingham canes… for the older set. ~Carolyn-F

Hi Cindy! The gingham lentil is just beautiful, I’ve made that kind of cane some time ago, the pattern is called a Vichy cane on the French blogs. I have never thought of using it on a lentil though. ~Squash

I forgot about this cute cane. This gingham is so cute! ~Phaedrakat

These gingham beads are absolutely beautiful! Where can I learn to make them? Caning looks like it’s difficult to me! I’m looking forward to learning the technique! ~Marsha-N

Well… coming up tomorrow, on Friday December 31st, 2010 I’m going to teach you all how to make this easy polymer clay pattern in the Vol-031-4 Gingham Cane Tutorial Video, at the Polymer Clay Library.

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-031-4 Gingham Cane:

• Well conditioned and softened polymer clay in White and the color of your choice. For my project I used one section White Premo and 1 section Turquoise Premo Sculpey Clay.
• Pasta Machine for conditioning clay (optional).
• Clay Extruder. Preferably the Makin’s Professional Ultimate Clay Extruder (green metal one with the screw in plunger).
• If you do not have an extruder, this gingham cane can be made by cutting your clay into strips manually… it’ll just take you a bit longer to get the job done.
• Square Extruder Die.
• Clay Blade.

The full version of the Vid-031-4 Gingham Cane video will be posted in the Polymer Clay Members Library on Friday December 31st, 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 “Gingham Cane” 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 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

I see says the blind man….thanks, one of my issues was getting the translucent thin enough, thanks for showing this. I have some very ornate cigar bands, and this is perfect for showing detail and encasing in poly clay. Thanks again Cindy, the price of the membership is saved in the mistakes I will no longer make! ~Rob-K

I feel sorry for the people who don’t subscribe to your website, they are really missing out. ~Bonnie-K

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

• See examples of several different colored Gingham Canes plus examples of beads made with them.
• Discussion of the tools and materials needed to create this fun and simple polymer clay cane.
• Learn about how simple it really is to build this classic cane pattern.
• Plus, with some creativity and ingenuity there are many ways to come up with unique versions of your own!

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

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

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!!!

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

Vid #176: Cindy,
what a coincidence!
I went to sleep last night
thinking about stamping
words and names into clay
pendants.” ~Sue-W

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 a few weeks ago in Video-029-3. However, with word images, you need to reverse them in your mold for them to “read” normally when you imprint the word image into your clay. That can get a bit tricky.

Alternatively, you could order a custom rubber stamp or metal stamp made by a large manufacturer, but… it could cost you a fair amount of time and money.

So in this weeks video tutorial lesson, I’ll show you how to do it the Polymer Clay Tutor way. By making your own handmade embossed metal word stamps. They are quick and easy to make… and dirt cheap, since you probably already have the supplies at home!

Cindy, what a coincidence! I went to sleep last night thinking about stamping words and names into clay pendants. I love anything with cursive writing on it and have found so many helpful hints on your site. Thanks for being so thorough in spreading your knowledge. ~Sue-W

I’d like to get a cursive writing stamp, any suggestions where I could get this? I don’t recall seeing anything in Michaels. ~Cheryl-H

On Friday, October 22nd, 2010 at the Polymer Clay Library (Vol-029-3), you will learn how to make your own Embossed Metal Stamps so you can put custom words and signatures on your polymer clay beads, pendants and other polymer clay projects… quickly, easily and inexpensively!

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-029-3 Embossed Metal Stamps:

• Embossing Metal or Foil: I use recycled metal vacuum seals from the tops of coffee cans. But you can also use Amaco Embossing Metal Sheets in Light or Medium Weight.  We will be using the Amaco metals in future projects as well, so if you buy some now, you will be one step ahead of the game :-)
• Embossing tools: Amaco Embossing Kits often come with a wooden embossing tool or you can buy a seperate set as well. Alternatively, you can use a small ball stylus and old ball point pen with no ink, a manicurist’s orange stick, or even a dull pencil. A pen stylus from your kid’s DS works beautifully as well! ;-))
• Scissors.
• Embossing surface: Any smooth surface which has some give but is still firm, such as a mouse pad with a smooth top, an old magazine, or a stack of papers.
• Weldbond Glue or other strong, flexible, thick white glue that will stick to metal.

The full version of the Vid-029-3 Embossed Metal Stamps video will be posted in the Polymer Clay Members Library on Friday October 22th, 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 “Embossed Metal Stamps” preview video shown above, is now avail for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Volume-029 Back Issue Package.

Customer Feedback About Membership Value:

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

Absolutely love, love, love it. You slammed another one right out of the ball park and the bases were loaded. Thank you so much Cindy and of coarse as always Doug’s wonderful filming. The dream team gives us way more than we have paid for once again. I am so thankful for finding the best clay family there is. We have it all here. All the talent, dedication and so much compassion not just for our art but for each other. It just doesn’t get any better than this. I am always so excited the first time I watch your tutes that I have to go back and watch again so I can really understand what you have brought us. It just keeps getting better and better every tute you do. Never a boring moment and always a growing moment. I have grown so much with all I can do with my PC now. When I forget something I just go back to the tute and watch it again picking up something new every time. I still refer to the basics course. Yep the one I didn’t think I would use but am still using many many times. Many Uuuuuuugggggs to everyone. ~Peggy-B

The following topics are included in this week’s Polymer Clay Tutor Library, Embossed Metal Stamps video tutorial:

• See examples of several Embossed Metal Stamps and projects they were used on.
• Discussion of the types of materials and tools needed for the project.
• Learn a cool tip to for finding free embossing metal in your pantry cupboard.
• And finally, find out how to create and use your Embossed Metal Stamps for an unlimited number of design ideas.

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

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

Video Tutorials:
1: Art Sheets;
2: Bead Caps;
3: Tube Bead Roller;
4: Spotted Lily Cane:

With another month gone by, the Volume-028 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 September, 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-028 Package:

Video-028-1 Polymer Clay Art Sheets: Sometimes you just need to do your own thing… especially if you’re an artist. This cool polymer clay technique allows you to express yourself in so many different ways. And you will get amazing results every time! Similar to a graffiti painted wall, a collage canvas or a hand painted art cloth, this technique combines all your favorite mediums, tools and design ideas together, into one unique concept. Because of it’s versatility, you will be able to use the resulting Polymer Clay Art Sheet in so many of your bead making projects.

Video-028-2 Polymer Clay Bead Caps: When you learn how to make polymer clay beads, it naturally leads you to making jewelry. And when you’re making jewelry, you need findings which often include bead caps. So when several of you recently asked if I would do a tutorial on how to make bead caps out of polymer clay… I said, “Of course!”

Video-028-3 Tube Beads and Roller: Tube beads are a very useful bead shape that can be pretty much made in every polymer clay technique… including Faux Raku, Mokume Gane, Zebra Canes, Kaleidoscope canes and even my newest technique, Polymer Clay Art Sheets. In the past I’ve always used a flat piece of acrylic to make them. But it’s always been a bit tricky to get sets of beads to all end up consistently even and the same size. Not any more though… not since I discovered the Amaco Tube Bead Roller! You would think that a tool as simple as this would be self explanatory. However, there are several little tricks that will make it way easier for you to use.

Video-028-4 Spotted Lily Petal Cane: Oh my gosh, you guys are going to love this Spotted Lily Petal Cane! It is so simple to make, but you can do so many cool things with it! Not only can you use the single petals as charms and beads, but you can also use them to build more complicated canes or even sculpted flowers such as Tiger Lilies, Jack-in-the-Pulpits, Sunflowers and Black-Eyed-Susan’s. There is a lot more creative potential with this cane than what you may realize, and you will be amazed just how simple it is to make!

Also included in this Volume-028 back issue package are the A-Series recipe cards from the Autumn Sunflower Color Palette.

To read feedback from members who have already benefited from the videos and recipes in this Vol-028 back issue package, click here: Polymer Clay Art Sheets | Polymer Clay Bead Caps | Tube Beads and Roller | Spotted Lily Petal 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-028, 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.

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

“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!!!

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

“I have one of those
roller thingies and have
never understood how to
use it. Your video should be
part of the instructions incl.
in the package!” ~Maria-C

On September 14th, I posted an introductory preview clip for the Tube Beads & Roller tutorial. Today, the full version of this video lesson (Vol-028-3) is available for viewing at the Polymer Clay Members Library. Here is the link: How To Make Tube Beads Using the Amaco Bead Roller Tool

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: Autumn Squash (3A) from the Autumn Sunflower Polymer Clay Color Palette.

All of this, so true. This is the PC place to be. I have been poking around the web for nearly a year, thinking about getting my polymer clay out of storage and getting back into it. This is the only place I have found where you get your questions answered quickly and the people are genuinely caring and sharing. Cindy Lietz is a superwoman; there aren’t enough hours in the day to accomplish all that she does. I don’t know how she does it, even with her husband’s help. Now that I am a member, I’m so pleased. Its value is well beyond such a small price! ~Phaedrakat

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

I am just 2 weeks into this and already am looking forward to trying some of the techniques taught by Cindy. I have daubled some in polymer clay, but was intimated by the intricate designs thinking there’s just no way I could do that… but after watching just a few videos, I can’t believe how easy it is! I’m especially ordering back issues! I can’t wait to see what I’ve been missing all this time! Well I’m in now. Phew, finally my polymer clay ambitions will be filled. ~Laurie-W

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

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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:

• Wheels are spinning (in a good way).
• Baking polymer clay at high altitudes.
• No time to clean the house.
• Dahlia flower cane (tute request).
  
• 3 year old grandaughter “Makin beads”
  
• From a childhood marble collection,
  … to losing your marbles later in life.
  
• Sourcing ideas for shaped cutters
  
• Making your own custom cutters.
  
• Deformed polymer clay mushroom beads.
  
• Grandkids add “spice” in your life.
  
• Baking times for thin clay.
• And more…
  

If you need to catch up, here is the link to the article where last week’s topics were discussed in detail: Polymer Clay Bead Caps

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

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Vid #172: “I have
lots of bead roller tools,
but have yet to try most of
them.” ~Carolyn-F

I have been a fan of the tube bead shape for a long time… and have pretty much made them in every polymer clay technique… including Faux Raku, Mokume Gane, Zebra Canes, Kaleidoscope canes and even my newest technique, Polymer Clay Art Sheets.

In the past I’ve always used a flat piece of acrylic to make them. But it’s always been a bit tricky to get all sets of beads all end up consistently even and the same size. Not any more though… not since I discovered the Amaco Tube Bead Roller!

You would think that a tool as simple as this would be self explanatory. However, there are several little tricks that will make it way easier for you to use.

So on Friday, September 17th, 2010 at the Polymer Clay Library (Vol-028-3), the members video tutorial will teach how make quick and easy cane covered tube beads using the Amaco Tube Bead Roller (set #1).

Thank you Cindy and Doug for being our research department for new products, just as you’ve made the mistakes so we don’t have to, which saves us money on clay, your researching of anything new that could be beneficial to us and make our projects easier is SO much appreciated. Thank you SO very much. ~Ken-H

My problem when I get the bead rollers out is that I can’t stop making beads. I’m a woman possessed. ~Bonnie-K

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-028-3 Tube Beads & Roller:

• Polymer Clay in Base color. I used Premo Sculpey in Purple.
• Polymer Clay Canes (optional). I used the Zebra Cane from Vol-024.
• Clay Blade.
• Pasta Machine.
• Amaco Tube Bead Roller Set #1 (Makes 7mm and 9mm tube beads). If you prefer not to buy a tube bead roller, you can use an acrylic sheet to roll the tube beads. It will be harder to make consistently sized beads though.
• Bead Rack or accordion folded card stock. I used the Amaco Professional Bead Rack with bead pins.
• Micro-Mesh Sanding pads or Wet/Dry sandpaper in various grits.

The full version of the Vid-028-3 Tube Beads & Roller video will be posted in the Polymer Clay Members Library on Friday September 17th, 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 “Tube Beads & Roller” preview video shown above, is now available for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Volume-028 Back Issue Package.

Customer Feedback About Membership Value:

How has your paid membership has been helpful for me…? Well I have seen a lot of polymer clay works and often I wonder… How did they do that? I really like your videos because now I’m learning the answers! Thanks Cindy.
~JoAnne-N

This website is the real deal… Cindy and her husband Doug go out of their way to ensure we have a positive experience, and get an amazing deal for our money. You can ask questions and read about upcoming videos (or past ones!) here at the blog. There’s a search box at the top of each page… helps to find information. Just about every subject has been touched on at least once! This ‘community’ has become pretty close over the past couple years, so occasionally you will find comments of a personal nature. For example, when someone has a surgery, or a ‘big’ anniversary. There’s also “polymer clay humor” sometimes ~Phaedrakat

Yes Cindy and Doug you deserve all the praise anyone could ever give you. Your teaching is first class and your costs worth every penny, or should I say cent (hardly know its gone from my bank its such a small amount). And Doug your video shots are so clear a true professional. Love you both. So come on you non-members, join us. You wont miss the price of a hot dog a month – that’s about what this costs and 100% more benefit. We are learning and having fun just chatting to each other so come and meet us as a member. ~Ritzs

The following topics are included in this week’s Polymer Clay Tutor Library, Tube Beads & Roller video tutorial:

• See examples of several different tube beads made with a variety of canes and techniques as well as several sizes and lengths.
• Discussion of the type of clay needed to have success making these creative polymer clay tube beads.
• Learn tricks and tips that will allow you to avoid problems with getting the the tube bead holes centered and straight.
• And finally, find out how to bake this bead shape and get that nice professional finish faster and easier than if you make them how the instructions tell you to.

The full version of the “Tube Beads & Roller” preview video shown above, is now available for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Volume-028 Back Issue Package.

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I see exciting things to come this year for the whole polymer clay industry.” ~Cindy-L

2010-01-05 Update: I received an email from Polyform this morning, requesting that I remove the embeded slide show originally included with this post. It was “…a proprietary presentation created for internal company use only.” That information was published without permission by a third party, on a social media site, which is where I obtained the publicly available embed code for the slide presentation. Polyform is currently taking measures to have the slide show removed from the Internet. And in support of their efforts, I feel obligated to remove the slide show from my web site as well. I have also modified the text of my article below, to remove any references made that were based on information presented in the slide show. My apologies to everyone who has been inconvenienced by this situation. ~Cindy Lietz

The makers of Premo Sculpey, recently announced some upcoming packaging changes and additions to their 2010 Polyform product lineup. The slide show posted further down on this page, was brought to my attention by Janet Allen, a valued contributor here at the blog. Thank you Janet!

I just want to take a moment to thank everyone for letting me know about this kind of news. Whenever possible, I’m happy to use my blog to help get the word out for everyone’s benefit. So when you hear about breaking industry information in our polymer clay world, by all means send me an email with the details.

<< Four paragraphs removed since they made reference to information in the unofficial slide show about packaging changes for Premo Sculpey Polymer Clay and various other Polyform Products.>>

It is fantastic to see the direction Polyform is heading. Many of us, for many years now, have treated polymer clay (especially Premo) as a medium for creating beautiful jewelry beads. But for the general public walking down the aisle of a craft store, it has been perceived more as something that kid’s play with.

These enhancements to the Polyform product line and packaging, should go a long way to help elevate the perception of polymer clay, to the respected level it deserves… as an art medium.

<< One paragraph and the unofficial slide show presentation have been removed from this part of the article.>>

I see exciting things to come this year for the whole polymer clay industry. I hope you will join the community here and come along for the ride. It will be a creative journey for sure.