Vid #183: “More Druzies Please!!!!!!! They look so different than anything else I’ve seen.” ~Patt-W
Last week when I showed you the tutorial for making Silicone Molds, I also showed you some examples of my latest technique, Faux Druzies. Well… several of you asked (rather… begged) me to do a tutorial on how to make them.
Did I hear you mention Faux Druzy? (I hope). Cool, LOVE fauxs and love YOUR fauxs especially, I can’t wait. ~Ken-H
What is a Druzy? … Now don’t I have the coolest new word in my vocabulary? I just have to figure out how to drop it into conversations so people will think I’m super smart. Hmmmm… floozie, oozie, doozie, woozie, boozie – so many opportunities to get confused – I’d better practice.
~Elizabeth-S
Thank you for teaching me a new word – never heard the term “druzy” before – had to look it up – excited to learn how to make these gems.~Maria-C
Your gold-coloured druzy is BEAUTIFUL! ~Susan-B
How pretty Cindy’s Faux Druzies are! A long time ago she suggested creating a tutorial for them, but everyone seemed to want different “faux’s”. Now that I see how pretty hers are, I’m sorry I didn’t cast my vote – they’re very nice! I look forward to seeing a tutorial for these, as well.
~Phaedrakat
I would love a tut on Druzies.. *Chants* DRUZIES! DRUZIES! DRUZIES! PLEASE…. ~Brenda-M
Please add me to the list requesting a tut on druzy. A magnificant crystal, becoming the new semi-precious gem. Lots of different colors and combos, so I cannot wait for Cindy’s interpretation. Hope it’s soon. Unbelievably beautiful products, can’t wait to see how you do it. ~Joceyln-C
Cindy, I have to agree with everyone here. We would love to make your Druzies, please!!!!!! ~Catalina
Since there was so much interest and enthusiasm, everyone should be happy to know that tomorrow on Friday, December 10th, 2010 at the Polymer Clay Library (Vol-031-2), I will be showing this unique, never been done before (to my knowledge), cool polymer clay Faux Druzy 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-031-2: Faux Druzy’s:
- Sculpey Bake and Bond or other brand of clear liquid polymer clay.
- Metallic Sand. This is a product I found in the Floral Department in Michaels. It is essentially crushed glass which has been sprayed with a metallic finish.
- Silicone Cabochon Mold (optional). We made these in the Vol-031-1 Silicone Molds Tutorial. I will teach you two versions of Faux Druzies, one using solid clay and one using liquid clay. An oven safe silicone mold is necessary if you want to do the liquid clay version of this technique.
- Alcohol ink (optional).
- Small metal spatula or stir stick (optional).
The full version of the Vid-031-2 Faux Druzy video will be posted in the Polymer Clay Members Library on Friday December 10th, 2010. But if you would like to see a sneak peek intro clip right now, scroll down the page a bit to the video player below.
***********************************
Here’s That “Link Below” Referred To at End of the Video
>> Polymer Clay Tutorials <<
The full version of the “Faux Druzy” 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:
I think the $3 per month is well worth it becasue your instructions are so good and I need someone to show me. I don’t learn well from pictures in a book that don’t show half of the steps, whereas your videos show all of the steps right there in front of you. Your site is a very valuable service to me and well worth the price! ~Diana-P
I don’t know how you come up with all your ideas, but I praise God every Friday for giving the two of you you special gifts then to top it with the generosity the two of you have going in those creative minds of yours. Absolutely. 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 every Friday 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 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 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, Faux Druzy video tutorial:
- See examples of several different Faux Druzy cabochons and other shapes, as well as completed pendants and a locket made with the faux stones.
- Discussion of the materials you will need to get this unique stone effect to look authentic, as well as alternative methods of doing the technique.
- Learn about the advantages of using silicone molds, and how they make this technique dead simple.
- Plus, with some creativity and ingenuity there are many ways to come up with unique Faux Druzy versions of your own!
The full version of the “Faux Druzy” preview video shown above, is now available for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Volume-031 Back Issue Package.
************************************************************************
OOOOOOOOO!!!! AHHHHHHHH!!! Guess my Christmas present wrapping (why bother, when the kids take 2.7 nano-seconds to rip it off),and cookie baking (its too early anyway, they’ll just get eaten by grandpa) will have to wait for another day! Good rationalization, doncha think????
i agree with Marlene….ooooooo ahhhhh lol. This is going to be another great one !!!
How nice ! WE asked for Druzies and guess what we are getting ?
TahDah!!! DRUZIES. Thank you -as usual, you listen to what we want. Not many people do that, right ? But Cindy and Doug do- what more could you ask for…………… Another original tute. Yeah………
Yay for druzies! I’ve only seen one in person but have seen a few pics. Here’s waitin’ for ‘nother great tutorial!
Another great Friday just around the corner, this time with Druzies. So like you Cindy to bring our request so quickly. Thank you and Doug for whatever efforts it took. We seem to repeat ourselves, but what other way is there to say “You’re the greatest in what you do”.
Off subject: Could polymer clay be baked in a cast iron mold? Anyone tried it? If possible would a mold release be needed? Of course the mold would be dedicated to clay at this point. Might be interesting….Thanks for any thoughts.
@Joyce M: OMG Joyce I missed your question too, and a long time ago. I’m sorry… so many things going on right now. Anyway, Yes you can bake in a metal mold, though you will have to watch for scorching since metal gets hot spots. As well, you will have to sand more with the metal than you do with the silicone, since the metal will leave shiny spots, but it will definitely work, if you already have some metal molds.
@Cindy Lietz from Baking Polymer Clay on Metal: No problem, Cindy. I can only imagine how busy you are and I’m not quite ready to experiment yet. I only have one mold but want that elusive “time” to be in place before I give it a go. I’m printing your reply to put with the mold so that much will be ready. Thanks so much.
I knew it!! I knew you would be e showing us the Druzies tomorrow!! :) Just to let everyone know that if you are a follower of Michaels on FB or Twitter you can get a 50% coupon!! You could use it towards getting some of the metalic sand needed for this tute!! I hope to make something for my mother for Christmas using this technique. I think she’ll love it!
Cindy, you ROCK! :)
Cindy you are the BEST! To produce the video so quickly after we asked (rather…..begged) you to show us this technique is just so great. I have yet to meet another person who is so willing to share their exceptional skills.
I particularly like the metal “frames” around your cabachons they really compliment your faux druzies. Thank you!
Ain’t this a wonderful site!!! Two weeks ago I didn’t know what a druzie was and after tomorrow I will know how to create them!! Awesome!!! Cindy, I think the finished pieces in the preview vid are stunningly beautiful. If I can come half as close in making mine, I will be happy.
Does anyone know if Hobby Lobby carries the metallic sand?
@Elizabeth S.:
Michael’s does, because I saw them the same day I saw this. On the other hand, it’s the clay part I don’t really get. Any plans, techniques, or thoughts?
Doing an awkward happy dance! Perfect timing. Love the anticipation…..
Not sure about HL sand, but here’s two picks for a lot of online metal craft and jewelry support (I love exploring these places):
axelrodco.com/index.asp
store.metalliferous.com/
Enjoy!
Urggg… I was just at Michaels and forgot to get the metallic sand… dang! But the good news is Michaels had Premo! on sale – 4 packages for $5…
Happy Claying,
~Lisa :)
Yay, I just knew it would be Druzies!!! Can’t wait for tomorrow!! Gotta make a stop at Michaels first. Thank you thank you, thank you, Cindy!
Those Duzzies are breathtaking. I can hardly wait!
Anyone know what could be used instead of that Hobby Lobby metallic sand? It’s a silver sprayed finish on coarse sand that you put in floral arrangements in the water instead of marbles, I think.
What other home found or made up materials could be substitued and create a similiar affect? Rock salt? Glitter spray painted kitty litter, crumpled tiny blobs of aluminum foil or metallic finished beads banged to pieces?
I have white sand I can add glitter, buffalo flakes, or mix in deep metallic paint or inks. Would that work, or the small glass balled glitter from Germany create the right effect?
Anyone have any ideas? That Floral metallic sand is just spray painted sharp edged coarse sand. Thinking about grabbing a pegmatite rock with varigatons of quartz, feldspar, and mica, and whacking at it for awhile to get the tiny seperate crystals, lol.
I also have a sizable beach glass (and stone collection), in clear, green, blues to lighter, and bottle brown. If run in tumber, could you use metallic resin or powder on these to make them look like the crystallizations in druzy?
@Jocelyn: I like the idea of crushing some of the blue/green beach glass! I might have to try that just to see if it will work. :)
@Jocelyn:Um, Jocelyn,
Are you having a bad day, my dear? This need to pound the heck out of anything not moving is a concern. lol
@Elizabeth S.: You KNOW it. Anytime I tell’yall I’m banging on something, it’s more because it relieves stress, not crafty. The crafty bit is an EXCUSE. Migraines are not the day to play this way, however.
Another interesting tutorial! Your finished stones look amazing!
Thank you so much Cindy for this brilliant yet simple idea! My mind just took off as I realised the potential, the sky’s the limit! I also want to thank you for making Friday such a special day, I get a real thrill on Thursday when I realise I only have to wait a few more hours for another super video!
CIndy- I thought I was the one of the first ones to watch the tutorial because I’m on Pacific Time, and up late. But I guess others have beat me to it! Once I saw the email link, I HAD to check it out, and these are gorgeous. It’s amazing how creative you can be with different materials and techniques. I had seen the metallic sand before, at a Michael’s, but had no idea how to incorporate it into my projects. Thanks for this great idea! HOW are you so creative? That should be a future tutorial… ;)
WOW! WOW! WOW! Talk about the path of a new creation with endless possibilities. Cindy once again has worked hard to give us just that for very little cost. Then Doug captures it all on film like the artistic pro he always is.
Blessed we all are to have found Cindy and purchased her tutorials, although I feel like I am getting them for free with the cost as low as it is and the quality is over the moon. So THANK YOU!!! BOTH for all the talent you so kindly share with us for free and the tutes you sale us for next to nothing. Lietz Team is #1 in my Book!!!!
LOVE AND UUUUUGGGGGGS, PEGGY
Awesome as always! Gonna get me stuff for druzy-doin’!
Wow…another hit!!! My grandson is staying over tonight. He might like helping gram do some druzys. Thanks for another mind opening tute. They do get gray matter working…..lol.
Awesome! I just saw all the floral sand while helping a customer a few days ago. I wondered if using the “sand” would be cool to add to clay. Well, you beat me to it, as usual, Cindy! This looks great and easy! My husband has even said that I can’t look at anything without wondering how I can use it with my clay!
Thank you, Cindy! Another awesome tut!! You make them so easy…now I have to get some of the silicone mold putty and get to work. Crushed beach stone sounds lovely. I wonder if you can get that at the pet store in the fish dept as gravel for the tanks? There happens to be a pet store right next to my Joanns so I’ll have to stop in and take a look.
Another excellent tut, thanks Cindy and Doug!!!!
Polyanna, I sure envy that grandson, is he going to have some fun, and some geology lessons, lol.
Warning, if you decide to crush up something, remember to put it in a double plastic bag, wear safety glasses and gloves, and put a towel over the bag. Wouldn’t bang on any fancy surfaces, they’d scratch or break. Outside on a piece of concrete, asphalt, or rock, but, maybe even put a towel down first, then whale away with the hammer.
@Jocelyn: good tips Jocelyn.
Fantastic!!!!!! The Druzies I’ve seen on some of the Jewelry shopping channels look just like this, some of the one’s I’ve seen have a finer crystalline structure in the cavities, but with a little research on materials they could be created also. Great Job once again Cindy and Doug.
I am so pleased that you guys are liking this week’s tute!
Just found a couple of resources for the ‘sand’ other than Michaels if you need it.
This one is the identical product in smaller amounts from a mosaic artist on Etsy. They also carry it in Copper, and Silver as well as the Gold:
etsy.com/listing/54895232/copper-metallic-coarse-sand-glitter
Another source I found is out of the UK and it look like they use real stone and marble chips which looks really awesome!!
specialistaggregates.com/sand-metallic-silver-medium-p-703.html
If you have found any alternate sources or product ideas that would work for making faux Druzies, be sure to post them here.
If anyone wants picture stimulation before beginning, try googe.com and request “images.”
Wonderful stuff shows up when you key “druzy” or “drusy” into the search field. Additionally, as you key, google will usually give you more choices for related imagery.
This rock takes many different shapes, colors, and forms.
It’s fascinating to look at lots of pictures of it.
Ok, on the chance of sounding stupid, is a druzy a geode, a geode a druzy, or is there something that differentiates the two?
It’s a geode but if in the hollow inside there is a covering of tiny crystals on the surface, that part is the druzy.
Well, just to let everyone know . . . I went to Michaels and the Metalic Sand is CLEARANCED!! This means we won’t be getting any more in! So, hurry if you haven’t gotten yours yet. I will check my store tomorrow, since I take care of all the clearance merchandise, and see if my store is clearancing them, too. (Not all stores are the same.) Was thinking about getting the silver, too.
Also, I found some crushed glass called Shimmering Sand, silver and gold (they are clearanced, too) I thought would be great to add a little sparkle. I will try it out and let you all know how it works out.
I’m glad you found other places where to buy the Metalic Sand, Cindy. I think I’m going to just go crazy with this tute!!
great tutorial………..love love love it especially since my style tends to go toward the natural end of things. Can’t wait to try it and definitely need to look at my silicone molds to see if they meet the criteria.
hai, can anyone please tell me why the acrylic colours when applied on polymerclay fades away after the sanding process.
Thanks in advance..
Great tutorial! I went to Michaels to buy the metallic sand today and they didn’t have any. :( Don’t you hate it when you want to do something and you can’t. I’ll have to order some. Cindy it’s amazing how you figured out how to make the druzies and made it so easy for us. Thank you Thank you Thank you!! XXXX
@Jeanne C.: I bought the Large size (2 lbs) of the silver metallic. When am I going to use 2 lbs ?LOL Anybody want some??. I’d be glad to share !!!!
see me on facebook -Patt Word. Just let me know…………
BTW – I love,love the tute. I have to wait til 2011 to buy the silicone mold putty. I AM ALL TAPPED OUT -sigh. But, all the Christmas stuff has been shipped. So now just have to wait………….tick,tock………..
I just came from Michaels and they are out of metallic sand. I’m thinking of maybe using alcohol ink with broken glass or break some of the faux sea that Michaels sell. An easy way I have found to break glass is to put it in the oven on a tray on the broil setting for about 5 minute then drop it in a bucket of cold water, it will break into small pieces. ( make sure you wear goggles to protect your eyes).
I’m wondering, can you spray paint broken glass and use it for this project?
@Artzygurl: Sorry I missed your question Artzygurl. Your ideas for using alcohol ink or spray painting broken glass sounds cool. Just make sure the glass is not sharp otherwise you could hurt yourself with it. Better to tumble it in a rock polisher for awhile before colorizing it. If you try it, let us know how it goes. We love to hear about experiments, good or bad. They are great learning tools!
What an awesome tutorial. The druzies are beautiful! Going to Michaels on Monday; I hope they have the metallic sand. I’ve been busy- this time of year – with music and jewelry. I sold a lot of stuff yesterday to the teachers at the school I do the choir – beaded and polymer clay pieces. I have taken photos and will post soon at my blog.
Fantastic on the sales!! Michaels didn’t have the metallic sand, so I went to the etsy site Cindy suggested and ordered a bag for $3.99. :)
Thanks everyone for the excited comments! Looks like you are all thinking very creatively about this this unique technique. Looking forward to seeing all the pictures you guys post of your Faux Druzies at the Facebook Gallery page. Can’t wait to see your interpretations!
@geetha: I am a little confused by your question. Are you painting your polymer pieces and then sanding to distress them like I teach in the Vol-029-2 Distressed Paint Finish Tutorial (see link by my name)? Sounds like you are either sanding off the paint, washing it away or leaving sanding dust in the crevices. If you own it, watch the Vol-029-2 video again or maybe consider purchasing it. It will help a lot. You can also find many of the answers you need by using the search box at the top of the page.
Didn’t like my first druzie but I think I now know what to do differently (sometimes color experimentation just doesn’t work out). Can’t believe how cool this technique is. I followed Jocelyn’s recommendation to google druzies-if you haven’t, you should. She’s right-the images provide beautiful possibilities for taking this technique in a million directions. Also, check Druzies on Etsy. (Aren’t you impressed that I am talking about druzies like I know what I’m talking about?)
I got some of the silver metallic sand at Michael’s (and it was on clearance, also), but they didn’t have any gold or copper.
I’d be happy to mail some of my silver for somebody’s gold or copper – I was thinking maybe half a cup? I’d throw in some iridescent snow for faux opals, too!
You can contact me directly, via: facebook.com/cindyks
Cindy M
I used two coupons and bought some gold and silver. They still had afew left at Michaels. They also had finer metallic sand; it did not look very crystalline and much finer than in cindy’s video.
Lot of thanks to your reply.. what i did was, I applied some designs on to polymerclay sheets with acrylic colours using a stencil.Afterwards i cut the polymerclay into a pendant shape and i baked the same,then i did the sanding process with soapy water as usual.During this process my paints were washed off.I think the sanding process which i did was a mistake.so if iam doing this same technique again hope i should only buff the projects.
Ihave the Distress paint finish video sent by you.once more my thanks to your for your kind advice. geetha
@geetha: Hi there! Here is another idea for you. Once you paint your design on the clay put a very thin layer of translucent clay over the top. This layer of translucent you will be able to lighty sand and get that polished finish you want. After you bake the piece cool it off immediately in ice water to help make the translucent clay more transparent!
Hi Cindy,
once again a great tut.
I am a bit late here, but things get in the way sometimes.
Well I had never heard of Druzies, but have seen them and call them Crystilines.Have now looked it all up on Google, amazing.
No chance of getting anything like your Metallic Sand here, hope someone from Aus who is here may be able to help me with this.
I have some very small stone chips I could use.
They do have holes in them but hope if I put them in the TLS the holes might not show. Love this idea of Faux Drusies as in the real thing they are so beautiful.
All sorts of colours, a particular one I like is Amythest, so beautiful.
Well thanks again for another great tut, have to get going on it.
Have a wonderful holiday time everyone and catch up on all those
UFO’s like me
Love
Elizabeth
XXXX
hai catalina, Thank you for giving me such good ideas.
I love these, and have the gold and silver sand from Michaels, but where do y’all find the settings to put them into?
Oh, I’d like to make a mold out of silicon to make one, but first I need a cobachon to mold around. I could probably make one out of scrap clay….anyone have a better idea?
While searching for the metallic glitter sand, I ran across “German glass glitter” This sounds like an ideal substitute for clear quartz crystals in the fauz druzy. Just google it. I did not find any metallic sand at my Michael’s. I did find some fine colored sand that sparkled (dark purple) that looked like amethyst in the first druzy I tried. I think I need more practice before I am willing to show anybody
@Bette L: Have you seen this close yet, Bette?
@Jocelyn: I have only seen it on the Meyer Imports website. It comes in 4 grits (sizes) and many colors. One oz. costs $5.95. It is supposed to be very high quality. Go to meyer-imports.com to have a look. I am ordering two bottles (gold and silver) in the two largest grits. Shipping is $4.95. I’ll let you know how it works out.
@Bette L: I ,too, saw the german glass glitter. I e-mailed John and asked him what grit to use. His reply floored me. He is going to send several grits for me to try out ! How generous is that ? So, as soon as I can, I’ll let you know and hopefully, see, how the druzies came out. As I have said , it will be after the first of the year -can you wait that long? In the mean time I am going to experiment with some very small Carnelian chips ( maybe the hole won’t show), my favorite stone.
@pattw: Happy Birthday, Patt! I missed it by a few hours… (sorry, I couldn’t get on Facebook…) Hope it was wonderful!!!
Also, thanks to all who brought the German glass glitter to my attention. It’s so gorgeous…I wish I could buy lots of it, but it is pri-i-iii-CY! :)
@Phaedrakat: Thanks Kat. I DID have a great one!
Beautiful Druzies! Tried with some glass frit I have but it cuts you. So off to see if I can find metallic sand here in Denmark.
Watching the video I discovered that your Bake & Bond is much more fluid than mine. I have to scoop mine out!
Is it possible to dilute it and with what?
Cheers
My Michaels didn’t have the sand either. I did find some rounded glass chips in the floral dept of AC Moore. I tried them but not thrilled with the results. Now I have two bags of this stuff…….anyone have any ideas for other uses for these glass chips?
@Hanne-R: Hi Hanne, I contacted Polyform through their Facebook page to find out if Bake and Bond could be diluted. This is what they said… “Hi Cindy, Sculpey Liquid Clay Softener, when added to Bake & Bond, will dilute it. A little at a time is the best method.”
@Kathy G: I think those glass chips would look lovely in a vase either with or without water and flowers. I believe that is what they were originally designed for. Even though they may not work so well for your druzies, I’m sure you will find a good use for them elsewhere.
Cindy@ I have been having a ball making the cabochons. I am having a bit of trouble with measurement of sizes. Do you know where I can get a printout chart that will show the accuall true scale in sizes of the oval part? When I go to purchace blanks I find myself backing out of buying them because I don’t know the sizes. Math isnot my strong subject. But If I had a print out that I can place my cabochon on to compair would be super!
@Barb: Sorry Barb I just noticed I had forgotten your question… I’d forget my head if it wasn’t attached! lol Anyway, a great way to make molds for cabochons is to buy some already made cabochon stones in various sizes. They come pretty much in every kind of material from plastic, to glass to stone and the sizes are standard across the board. If you collect a range in sizes, you can make Simple Silicone molds for almost every bezel available.
@Brenda: I found this great printable chart for all the sizes of cabochons that are commonly available. It was at Fire Mountain Gems’ site. Here’s the link:
firemountaingems.com/printdocs/printdocs.asp?docid=CABSIZESHAPE
Hi Cindy,
I could not find the chart with the URL you gave, so here is where I found the print out of size and shape of cabochons.
firemountaingems.com/encyclobeadia/beading_resources.asp?docid=cabsizeshape&doccat=knowledge+base
It is a PDF document when you get to the page. click on print.
Here is my solution for getting these cab molds. Benni Jo Couch has ready made molds of cabs in standard sizes. Unfortunately you can not bake in these molds. I am going to use plaster of paris to fill the molds, then make my silicone mold off of that. Of course, it is a more expensive alternative than your suggestion. You always come up with the most inexpensive way to get around things. Too bad I already ordered the mold when I saw your comment. LOL.
Thanks gals!!! Just what I needed :)
Thanks Cindy! I’ll try with the Sculpey Liquid Clay Softener.
@Hanne-R: I thinned my B&B out trying this method. It worked beautifully. Have a go at it :)
I was at my local Michael’s over the weekend and they still had several bags of the gold Metallic Sand Chips. If anyone wants me to pick them up for you, let me know (Like I need an excuse to go back to Michael’s HA). Happy Holidays everyone!
Just noticed I forgot how to spell my own name (forgot the R – blame it on the seasonal rush!) Also have been hunting for Buffalo Snow to no avail (when I asked an associate in JoAnn’s she pointed me to the large bags of batting they have on display.) but what I did find was a “crinkled” iridescent cellophane wrap that worked well once I cut it into little pieces, even though it sticks to fingers, and then flies away, just as easily as the metallic leaf sheets.
@Marlene: I got my buffalo snow at AC Moore. It was with the Christmas crafts. I would be willing to trade some buffalo snow for metallic sand if anyone is interested.
@Kathy G: The reference to the mis-spelling of my name in my last post was because I did one about my local Michael’s still having the gold Metallic Sand, but it didn’t post because of the error in my name. Can pick some up for you if you would like. NEVER a problem to go back to Michael’s, they know me by my correct name!
@Marlene: I would love some. Can we swap sand for buffalo snow?
Cries* My Micheals don’t have the metallic sands :(…. Anyone want to share? I have crushed up glass for my first one. But that makes me nervous.
@Brenda: Would be happy to share, Brenda.
Have both the silver and gold. What quantity are you needing? Are you on Facebook?
In the true spirit of Christmas and the season of giving, it’s especially wonderful to see everyone supporting each other by offering to share materials and supplies within the community here! Just a quick note about the logistics of how to manage these types of exchanges. Because of privacy regulations and whatnot, email addresses can not be shared publicly here at the blog. So in order to be able to communicate directly with each other about personal contact information, please make sure that you are able to use Facebook for being able to direct message each other about the details of your swaps and trades. Thanks so much and Happy Holidays to everyone!
OOPS Sorry Cindy just delete that last post of mine.
Anyone else need some? I have more than I’ll ever use so if you are in one of the states I’ll be glad to send some along, gold or silver or both.
Joyce, seem to be up a creek here, so would like to take you up on your kind offer to send some glass. I’d like a tiny bit of both gold and silver. Be more than glad to send you a SAE and payment for postage if you’d contact me on facebook.
If you folks are out of luck, one last thing to try is to contact the wedding planners in your area, set designers, or florists, both retail and wholesale. Most likely they’d be glad to give you a small supply if they have a similar product.
For the gal who purchased the rounded glass, I think I use that as embellishments on polymer clay. You’d have to bake the object with the glass on, then pop off the glass and reapply with Wellbond glue.
Would not recommend crushing your own glass, unless you can tumble it to soothe the edges. Tried using both aquarium glass (worked great) and crushed beach glass. The latter would cut someone up pretty well, sadly.
@Jocelyn: I did Crush some sand glass. I used the fine in the Faux Duzy I post on FB. It turned out great. The larger pieces I put in my tumbler. I haven’t checked them though. I recommend wearing saftey goggles ,and hammering in thick leather. Anything thinner will cut right through. You don’t want that glass getting on the floor either. ouwie!
@Jocelyn: No need for the SAE or postage, that’s all part of the fun of sharing. BUT I’m not very efficient with Facebook so I don’t know how to contact you there. Can you contact me?
I’m Joy Folsom there.
Well, Michaels was out of the metallic sands but I found them at Joann’s in gold, silver and copper. The bags are huge and way more than I can use too. I’m willing to share too. Let me know if you are interested.
@Laura Z: I’m getting some silver and gold from Marlene but I would love if you could send me some copper. If you need some buffalo snow. I do have plenty of that. You can contact me via my etsy site: etsy.com/shop/USCGwife
Thank you so much.
Thanks for all the offers to share. Marlene is going to ship me some. Thanks a million!
@Kathy G: I would love to trade. I too got the 2 pound bag so I have a ton! I’ll contact you over at Etsy.
@Laura Z: I ended up going to Joann’s and got some copper. Thanks so much for offering though and if you still want some buffalo snow, I’ll happily send you some. Message me at etsy.
Merry Christmas to us. Last minute shopping here, lol.
How about we set up a trade market? On Fri, open mike, we could exchange our apparent excesses and bring joy to others.
Could we use a format?
I have tons of stuff I’d love to trade for other stuff. Being that postage is high, being able to dually participate helps the cost. Thinking about postage for crushed glass! LOL!
Also, thanks much to Bette for the referral to the glass glitter from Germany. One site shows to use old cake stands and crystal clear cut glass salt and pepper shakes for any powder or glitter displays. Bottles and labels so you can blend your own custom druzies, or embossing powders.
This is a wonderful treat, so enjoy…and explore all the Meyers sites. Tons of craft and jewelry supplies.
All About Glass Glitter – Meyer Imports
meyer-imports.typepad.com/meyer_folder/all-about-german-glass-glitter.html
Copy and paste in browser. Goes to Meyers Glitter Blog.
Well, I just tried Diamond Dust on my druzies. It worked very well. I even tries to dye them with the Tim Holtz inks and it works very well. Something to to think about if you can’t find the Metalic Sand. You can find Diamond Dust at Michaels. It is finely ground glass that sparkles like – you guessed it – Diamonds! I’ll try to post my first try on FB. Also, try Martha Stewart’s Vintage Leaf Gillters. This will work great with the Faux Opals. No dying since they come in all colors in one package! This makes making the Faux Opals even easier!
@Catalina: What department is the Diamond Dust in ?
No one at my michaels had heard of it……….sigh ;{
@pattw: Thanks pattw, I was going to ask this but forgot, and since here on the East Coast we’ve been having “weather” (don’t want to speak that nasty four letter word begining with “S”) on the weekends since christmas, I haven’t gotten out to Michaels yet.
@pattw: Patt, you should find it in the glue aisle. Near the unfinished wood and stains. I think it is an odd place but that’s where my store carries it.
@Catalina: Thanks Diana, I’ll check it out -hope they do…………..
Since so many people are having a hard time finding the Metalic Sand I’m offering to share my supply. Just go to my shop at etsy, designsbyCATALINA, free shipping to all in the USA. I’ll add a free recipe box that I’ll ship the sand in so you can store it! I just love this tute and you will, too!
I went to Michaels yesterday and they were restocked with metallic sand. They did only have gold though. Joann’s on the other hand has all 3 colors, silver, gold and copper. Just wanted to share.
What a fantastic group! Everyone so willing to share. I remember last year, a few weeks before the Faux Opal tute came out…everyone saw Cindy’s “Fopals” and just had to find some Buffalo snow. Peggy B. was especially lovely about sharing hers, and mailed it all over the world! Several others did this, too — it was an awesome thing to see.
Cindy has taught us so much…she’s been so generous with her clay tutorials, color recipes, and her TIME (answering questions, holding our hands throughout countless projects & clay problems–not to mention the non-clay problems!) She practically gives away her videos. I wonder if it’s her influence that inspires us to share & help each other? OR, were the people in this lovely group already the sharing kind? I guess my question is: Which came first, “the Cindy” or our poly-family’s generous nature? haha ;) Either way, it makes me happy to see this sharing happening again. :D
Happy New Year, everyone. You’re all wonderful artists AND darn fine people!
Cindy a belated thank you for taking the time to get information on how to thin the Bake&Bond. I see I will be needing it with the polymerized cloth! Looks like a lot of fun! You have the most amazing ideas!
Brenda thanks for the encouragement – always a help to know it has worked for others – and it worked!
Happy New Year to everyone!!!!!!
A SMALL UP-DATE. I contacted Meyer Imports and explained what we would be using the german glitter for. He kindly sent 4 different sizes and colors of the glitter. Here is what I did – Rose Pastel glitter, 70 grit- baked well no color change. Ditto with Gold, 90 grit -orange, 100 grit and light blue, 80 grit. These all worked very well. Safe to bake (Yeah). I liked the 70 grit best, but you may like another size. The glass did not cut, it was not that sharp. I will post pics as soon as I can. Give this company a try. John was great to work with. I do wish they had a clear color though. I’ll try to find the Diamond Dust, and give it a try.
I cured small cabs of Premo clay, some with HOLES I made. No problems whatso ever……………….
Well, I just got my silicone mold material in the mail and can’t wait to get started. I have a bit of the german glitter glass left in clear so I’m going to have to try that out. When at Joann’s last night, I found the diamond dust, but it was in both silver and gold, not clear. Will have to take a looksee at Meyer Imports. Thanks for the update!
Hey Ken, getting lots of that “weather” here on the east coast too. As I work for a school district, I keep hoping for the “S day” so I can play with my clay!
Hey you guys- I just wanted to tell you about a product I found at Micheals that really amps up the faux druzy look- it’s called diamond dust, and it looks like very fine sprinkles of crystal. when put into the mold for the faux druzy- it is just fabulous- super shiny and looks like tiny crystals all in the druzy ‘windows’.
I was able to find the metallic sand at Walmart, in their silk flower section. We do not yet have a super walmart, so the craft section is very small, but I checked anyway and it was there, so if anyone is still looking for it, try your local Wal-mart or walmart.com- just an FYI for anyone still working with the faux druzy concept- I’m a slow poke, so sorry if I’m too late posting this info…
@kiti_katt: Thanks for the info, Kiti Katt…I’m a slow poke, too at getting the supplies for this project. Good to know I can find it at Walmart (mine isn’t a “super,” but their craft section is better than many other WM’ts…) Anyway, don’t worry about being “slow” — Cindy said she appreciates us keeping these other posts alive. Even if most members made Druzies when the video came out, it always helps to have new supply info. Plus, there are always new members & guests who are interested in these tutorials. Cindy has said many times that she’s grateful when we add info to older posts… ~Kat
Thanks everyone for the Diamond Dust tip, too…I might just save myself the trouble (& gas money!) by going that route. And, of course PattW, I still wanna get my hands on some of that German glass glitter! ;-)
Good luck, Cat, on your craft show! Of course, if ya wanna do well, you’re gonna have to let some of those druzies go!!! ;D
@Phaedrakat: Dear Sister Kat, I will try to let my Druzies go but I will make “special” ones for the craft show. :) I thought about making some that look like Easter eggs. What do ya think? Especially with some of the new colors of Premo and the Diamond Dust!
@Phaedrakat: I agree about “resurrecting” earlier posts – I personally like it when I get some new info on an older technique, especially because most of the time I’m not just concentrating on the recent stuff.
In fact I haven’t gotten round to trying the druzies yet, since I only ordered silicone a couple of days ago! I’ve been meaning to try it for a while now. Guess I’d better head down to my lovely local bead shop to grab a cabochon to make a mould from on Monday…
Oh and good luck with your show Cat! I like the Easter egg idea. Can’t wait to see what you come up with, those new colours look so pretty.
@kiti_katt: Thanks for the tip…even my tiny Wal-Mart had it in both silver and gold!
Wow, at Walmart! That is great! I still have some left in my
ETSY shop designsbyCATALINA if you can’t find any near you. I’m so hooked on this one. I can’t stop!! I’m doing a craft show in April and I don’t want to sell any of my Druzies. I want to keep them all for me!! Crazy, uh? :)
Silicone putty arrived!! Yay! Now I just need some cabs to mould…
@kiti_katt: Awesome! I’ll look for it there!
@Phaedrakat: I meant to pop in here the other day and thank you for mentioning that it is good to add new info and updates to older posts. Silverleaf is right, it ‘resurrects’ them and keeps them alive. There is so much good information in the posts of the past. It would be a shame if they were buried, never to be seen again. I think that on some blogs it is actually discouraged to post on old posts. But not here! Thanks again for all the support and kindness you bring to the blog. You are greatly appreciated!
@Catalina: Man I am jealous every time I here you talk about the new colors. I haven’t been able to get any yet. Soon, I hope. Soon! Good luck on your craft show. I hope your beautiful jewelry flies out the door and onto the bodies of happy customers!
@Silverleaf: That is great Anna! I think you are really going to enjoy the silicone putty. There are so many cool things you can make with it, including the druzies. Can’t wait to see what you make!
@Cindy Lietz from Polymer Clay Color Recipes – Mushroom Palette: Thanks, Cindy. Guess what??? I just Skyped with Anna (Silverleaf)!!!!!!!!!!!! It was sooooo cool! I felt she was right next door! Thanks for making our world smaller, Cindy!
@Silverleaf: Just a tip I found that might be helpful; if you need a cab mold, you can always use the back of a measuring spoon. I have some that are round, some that are oval, and the different measurements (teaspoon, tablespoon, etc) will make different sized cabs! I have some that are round and very deep, so the handle doesn’t get in the way at all.
@Catalina: Wasn’t it exciting? I had a lot of fun with that, and I hope we get a regular group clay chat thing going. It’s the next best thing to meeting face-to-face (and free unlike plane tickets, lol).
@Cindy Lietz from Polymer Clay Color Recipes – Mushroom Palette: I called in my lovely local bead shop today to pick up some cabs to mould and one of the owners expressed surprise that I was buying semi-precious stuff as he knows I work almost exclusively in polymer. When I explained that I just wanted a couple of sizes of cabs to make moulds, he offered to LEND me the stones and a few other pieces, and I can return them when I’m done. How nice was that?
@Rebecca Chisenhall: What a good idea! I have some plastic oval measuring spoons as well which will be perfect for this, assuming they don’t have some kind of moulding seam. Thanks so much for sharing that tip, I’m sure it will help others as well. :)
@Silverleaf: You are very welcome, Silverleaf! I am all for economizing when it is possible and not so difficult that the work involved outweighs the possible savings! Your plastic measuring spoons should work well providing there is no seam, as you mentioned. Mine did make a beautiful, deep, smooth and perfect cab using scrap polymer clay, as well.
I just bought the metallic “sand” at Wal-Mart and I am going to give the druzies a try this weekend. Can’t wait!
Cindy, they also had some lovely crushed seashells in a bag—wonder what we could do with them??? (Hint-hint).
Saw the very same metallic sand, silver and gold, at my Wal-Mart, as well. Buying those the very next trip there!
Highly recommend that you all treat yourself to a quick glimps at Meyers online sites……keep googling…..I always get stuck in the glitter stuff.
I would absolutely LOVE to see some more “Faux” Tutorials in the future – any type of Semi-Precious Stone would be fine with me, that is one of the things that I truly love about Polymer Clay – it’s ability to mask itself as so many other things. I saw a piece of I believe it’s called “King’s Turquoise” or something to that effect once, it was Turquoise that had been dyed and then heat treated to turn into these gorgeous colors – this particular piece was in shades of pink and purple, I have tried and tried to duplicate it with no real success. Anyway, just thought that I would put my two cents in. Thanks so much for your website Cindy – I look forward to it every Friday!!
Hi Guys,
I knew it ,I just knew it. My beautiful chrystal decanter is no more!
(A wedding present from my dear departed parents.) You guessed it, I poured borax then boiling water in it to clean the stains and “ping” it shattered into a zillion teeny tiny pieces. Took me most of the day to clear it up.
Then a few weeks later I bought the faux druzy video package and wham, realized those tiny chrystals would have been ideal for this project. Just goes to show, think carefully before you throw anything out!!
Been trawling through the archives and reading some tips from you guys. I like the idea of using measuring spoons to make cabs. Also thanks for posting the UK site for metallic sand, it certainly helps us Brits as we do not have a Michaels, JoAnnes or other craft stores just round the corner.
My small local Art/Craft shop has closed down and the next nearest has stopped stocking polymer clay. (Why) They said there was no call for it, but it was stuck in an obscure corner covered in dust.
With the cost of international shipping I rarely buy online from across the pond. One exception is Terry’s site. He is so helpful and I am amazed at how fast I receive my orders.
(Thanks Terry. Have you managed to find a supplier in the UK for your PYMII yet.)
**(Thanks Terry. Have you managed to find a supplier in the UK for your PYMII yet.)
Sorry, I don’t carry PYMII
I have a bunch of the Metalic Sand left. Go to my etsy shop called designsbyCATALINA to find both the gold and silver Metalic Sand. I could even throw in some Diamond Dust, too, if you like! You will LOVE making these!
P.S. I’m sorry your precious vase broke. But, it wouldn’t have been a good idea to use broken glass. They would have been too sharp and you would have cut your fingers trying to work with it. This Metalic sand is glass but very blunt and safe to use.