Video #259: “I would love love LOVE to learn how to make the calla lilly and stamen… it’s gorgeous.” ~Gail-M
One of the cool things about a Calla Lily is its unique and prominent stamen that protrudes from the center of the flower. And since I taught you how to make a Large Calla Lily Flower last week, it made sense to follow up right away with this stamen tutorial.
So… coming up tomorrow (Friday, June 8, 2012) in the Vol-049-2 members video at the Polymer Clay Tutor Library, I will teach all of you how to make gorgeous Glass Encrusted Stamens that you can add to your Calla Lily Beads.
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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-0049-2 Glass Encrusted Stamens:
- Small amount of Polymer Clay in stamen color of your choice. I used a little of the creamy ecru color left over from the Calla Lily tutorial, with a small amount of Sunshine Yellow mixed in. But you can use whatever color you like.
- 4″ – 6″ (10 – 15cm) of the wire of your choice. I used 6″ 20g Half Hard Bronze Wire for the demo, but you will want to choose the size and type of wire that is most suitable for your end design. You will know what is best for you, once you see the tutorial.
- Diamond Dust
or suitable substitute. You’ll understand once you see the vid.
- Sculpey Bake & Bond
- Chain Nose Pliers
(Jewelry Grade).
- Flush Cutters
(Jewelry Grade).
- Glitter Tray
- Piece of Cardstock or File Folder.
- Alcohol Inks
By the way, many of the “shopping” links I provide for the various tools and supplies used in my tutorials, are “affiliate” resources. That means companies like Amazon and the other suppliers I refer, pay me a small commission if you click on the links and end up making a purchase at their site. It’s not a lot, but every little bit helps in keeping the cost of my tutorials so low… at only $3.32 per month. And, the prices for products that you may purchase through my links, are exactly the same as what you would normally pay. So please do feel free to click away whenever you need to pick up a few things for your studio. Thanks so much for supporting this site :-)
Here’s a sneak peak of this week’s tutorial…
The full version of the “Glass Encrusted Stamen” preview video shown above, is now available for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Vol-049 Back Issue Package.
Customer Feedback About Membership Value:
Hi Cindy, I have learned a lot from your videos. Before finding your course I was watching You Tube videos to try and figure out how to use polymer clay. Some of them were ok, but nothing like yours. You go into great detail, and for a beginner like me it helps tremendously. I look forward to learning more from you. Thanks! ~Patricia-M
Cindy – although I knew about polymer clay “somewhat”, you have shed light on so many little [but QUITE necessary] intricacies that will make such a difference as I move forward in my journey! Your tutorials truly are as if you were sitting right next to me giving instruction in such an understandable way! I’m so excited, and I’m only about 1/3 of the way through the course videos! Thanks again! I have paid a whole lot more $$ for a whole lot less – WELL WORTH THE INVESTMENT! ~Sue-S
Do I think the membership is worth it? ABSOLUTELY- the colour palettes alone are worth more to me. And the effect on my (sad, underdeveloped) creativity? PRICELESS. I have never seen you strike out, and you sure hit a lot of home runs! ~Monique-U
The following topics are included in this week’s Polymer Clay Tutor Library, Glass Encrusted Lily Stamen video tutorial:
- See examples of Calla Lily pins and pendants, that feature Glass Encrusted Stamens.
- Learn the reasons why you will need to use a cardstock, a stiff brush and certain design elements, to make your piece safe to wear.
- Find a cool way to make your jewelry designs stand out from the crowd, with your own custom colors and finishes.
- 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 “Glass Encrusted Stamen” preview video shown above, is now available for purchase at the Polymer Clay Library in the Vol-049 Back Issue Package.
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Stamens are usually a problem for me. This gives me some options. You always have a twist that gets the mind going….:)
Looking forward to this, Cindy…want to make those Calla lillies and stamens! 8)
Hi Cindy
I hope that your family road trip goes through New jersey …. It would be great to me my ” mentor ” in person ….thanks to you,Doug and everyone on the blogs…I have learned so much… I’ve gone from making just bookmarks with polymer charms to a full line of jewerly…. Haven’t sold much to anyone but friends right now but I doing searches on were flea markets and local crafts fairs are….I just have to learn how to price mu items…don’t want to charge to little..then people don’t think I. Is my work bit I so don’t too charge too much and not get any sales.i have been looki on Etsys to see what other people are asking for similar items ….an other suggestions
Natalie H. Aka safti
I just love the stamen alone, lol. I can see some fun here.
Such cool ideas coming! Stamens -wow. This is new form for me……hmmmmmmmm. Hurry Friday. My Calla needs a stamen ! Sort of “baby needs new shoes – only different. teehee
This is a new one for me. I have seen diamond dust in Michaels but never knew what it was for and how to use it. Cindy is changing all that! What a neat way to create this beautiful Stamen. Kind of reminds me of Sugar Beads.
This looks very pretty… and wouldn’t it make “bling-bling” cattails for an arrangement? Looking forward to tomorrow so I can figure out a good substitute for the diamond dust.
Like it, I was thinking pussy willows…..
I hope Michaels here will have the diamond dust; I have a 40% coupon for Saturday! Love the glass encrusted look!!
Kudos Cindy and Doug, another information packed video. Stunned by how many choices come to mind for just the stamen….I’m definitely going to meyer-import.com and checking out all their German glass glitter and goodies. If you like the mini stuff, grab a gnome or two, and make the stamens funky tree shapes. Not sure if I could have worn that to the office, but that was then and this is now, lol.
Hate to beg further but really really like the pin attachment and the stickpin. Could you add a tute to finish up the series with a how to for them?
As for the pussy willows, think that will be my next project. Combine wire work with stamens, or I can go to: countryviewnurseries.com/branches.html:
You can get the dried twisty branches, so just need to add the flowers.
Fun, fun, fun
Be sure and get the 70 Grit. I did some research with Meyers when we made the Druzies. Some of the colors fade. So do a test if you use colored glass. FYI….
Thanks!!!! Very good point!
Patt, you know I wonder if a good application of PYM II spray sealant would help reduce tarnishing and fading on the glass glitter?
Does anyone know of an online store to purchase it from, Caroline’s place is closed, I think.
I used a whole can a year and a half ago on all sorts of stuff. The polymer clay stuff I have outside in the shaded garden retained their colors and the purple pansies I sprayed still look like new.
What is PYM ll? I have never heard of this spray…what is it used for?
Hi Cindy,
Hope you all are enjoying your camping trip.
To see the finished lily with it’s diamond dusted centre made me gasp as it is so beautiful.
Now eagerly waiting for the postman for supplies to complete this stunning flower.
Thanks also for reminding us that crushed glass can be dangerous if not treated with respect. So take care to watch Cindy’s health and safety tips when working with this material, have fun…………………..cheers xx……………………..
Thanks Elaine!
In regards to the camping… we are still in the “prep” stages of turning this dream into a reality. Here is a link to where Doug shared some initial details about our pctRoadtrip plan [READ DOWN THROUGH THE COMMENTS ON THIS PAGE AS WELL FOR EVEN MORE UP TO DATE INFO].
The idea is for our whole family, trailer in tow, to set out on a course that will allow us to meet up with PcT members in small towns and cities throughout North America. And… if everything works out, there is no reason why we wouldn’t be able to do something similar in the UK, Europe, Australia… and who knows where else (one step at a time, though :-).
Each of us, including the kids, will have our responsibilities for keeping the business going while we are out on the road. The trailer will be a ‘portable studio’ so that we can continue to do what we do every day (filming, creating tutorials, blogging, etc.)… yet finally get to meet face to face with our clay community.
The plan is to connect over a cup of coffee, chatting about polymer clay and sharing our love for polymer clay with each other. Along the road we may meet with only one or two people in one town, and then a large group or guild in the next.
We will be looking for sponsor(s) (Michael’s… hopefully your ears are burning about right now :-). Wouldn’t it be great for groups of us to go shopping together at retail locations throughout the country/continent? There are so many products in the aisle’s of the big craft stores that can be used with polymer clay… and I’m not just talking about the polymer clay aisle!!!
This Roadtrip community project will add a personal connection to enhance what has already been developing here online, over the past several years.
It should still be a fun experience for even those who can’t meet up with us in person, since we will be filming and vlogging about the whole adventure, as it unfolds.
Think reality show… only replace the New Jersey table tossing bits… with forehead smacking, a-ha moments of extreme inspiration!
Does this sound like fun to anyone? Attracting sponsors to turn this dream into a reality will depend on how much support you guys are willing to show now, while we are at the initial stages of planning. So please do speak up and let us (and potential sponsors) know if this is something that you guys want.
Yes, it does sound like fun. Actually, I would like to go with you….LOL!!!!!
Cindy I would think the Premo Folks would like to sponsor part of this since that is all you use and a lot of us use it too. You certainly promote their clay, hopefully they can help promote your “Road Trip” Maybe if we all sent in a letter to Premo they might see what a great idea you have.
Great idea, Dixie. And based on comments lately she could probably get some support from Sissix, too. A quick demo to each group encountered….it would be fab.
This is also an excellent business opportunity. Not many folks take the time to visit and get to know their key audiences. You get the “lay of the land” so to speak.
OMG, that would be something I could so get behind ,
Hi Cindy and all,
Wow that sounds a wonderful idea to go off to meet all the polyclayers around you. I hope I am still on this planet when you finally get around to Australia, and I hope you get lots of Sponsers.
love the idea with the Crushed glass.
Last year I did a Glass fusing Class at our College here, so I have some crushed glass, and this would be a great way of using it. We call it Frit here, and can be bought at the glass sites .
Also you can make your own, by putting whatever glass you have between lots of newspaper, and using a hammer to break it up. Of course you must wear protective glasses which also wouldnt be a bad idea when using the Diamond Dust or products like that. They dont cost much.
I also think I will be covering the finished stamens in a resin as I think you might get scratched by this fine glass, as I have done when learning to cut glass. that is a story on its own for me .
Anyway this is a great tute and I will be having a go at it soon.
Bye
Love to all
E. XXX
Ah frit, of course! Thank you for the reminder, I’d forgotten that frit exists. It seems a lot cheaper than the diamond dust and comes in lots of different colours if you don’t have alcohol inks (of course I DO have them, lol!)
Caution with the frit. I looked at lots of it, and it is cheap. But I think the Diamond Dust has been tumbled slightly to take the rough edges off. Don’t think they do this with the frit, so that it melts into the glass better. I’d use gloves, eye protection, and a mask with the frit.
americanglasssupply.com/html/glassfrit.html
Excellent color and size options, just gorgeous stuff.
Good to know Jocelyn – you only get one pair of eyes so protecting them is a good idea!
I guess if you’re mixing glass with resin the risks are lower – I’m not sure I’d want to use frit for the stamens or anything else that someone could touch and potentially cut themselves on.
Love the idea! I’d especially like to see a little of the places you visit as well (and hear fun accents as well, lol). You DEFINITELY have to come to the UK some time too, we could have a huge clay party ):
You KNOW I’ll get to wherever you’re closest to Philadelphia, and I too think that with all the business you send to PREMO’s doorstep, that they’d become a sponsor. Just let me know where and when to send the letter!!!!!!
Maybe everyone from the Northeast could meet and greet the bus up in Phili, and you could add more southern states too. Ah, 95 southbound…..next year, and there seem to be a lot of folks here from Michigan and Florida.
These are so beautiful!
I enjoyed the stamen video. With a menagerie of animals and young child in the house I think I will try the other options first. So huge thnx for the extra bling options. I also vote for the wire demo. I can see SO MANY options for it. Thank you so much for all you do.
I’m so glad you found another way to use the Diamond Dust. I love making Druzies and now to make wonderful stamens is going to be a treat! I wish I didn’t have a class to teach tonight so I can get right to this. I was in Colorado last week visiting family and I took them the clay roses as gifts and they went nuts! Now, I have to make a bunch of lilies to send them!! Life is tough, but I’ll manage :)
What are Druzies???
Natalie, you’ve just got to check out Vol-31-2 for the Druzy Tutorial (in the Back Issue Library). I have to admit I had never heard of them until Cindy showed how to make a faux!
Cat I forgot all about the diamond dust I had purchased from you for the druzies. I went to go get all the different supplies I had purchased when doing druzies and I have an endless eray of product to try. This is going to be so much fun.
Hi Cindy you’ e done it again..I’m working on a Mazuzah in the shape od Sushi and was triing to figure out how to make the.syook like pearl rice and here you come with the diamond dust….. Bet is going to be perfect now step is to work on the seaweed wrap but. I think a textured sheet and toned down. Black migt just do it… When I’m done I will send you a pix….got lots of pixs I would like to send Tou guys….you never cease to amaze me with you creative juices that keep coming up with these great tutes week after week !!
Natalie aka safti
Please post your pictures on Cindy’s Polymer Clay Tutor site, love to see folks’ experiments and achievements!
I just knew this was going to the cherry on top the whipped cream. Cindy you and Doug have out done yourselves once again. I have all the items you suggested we try and can’t wait to try each one to see which one I like best. It is so nice to be back claying again. Not doing a lot yet but a little is better than nothing at all. I am so blessed to have access to all your tutorials. I just can’t Thank you enough.
Wishing you and yours a wonderful June weekend.
Uuuugggs to all!
Welcome back!!! So glad you could finally join us. We missed you and your UGGGGS.
Thanks it is really good to be back. I hope this time I am more regular on the visits and comments. I have missed this more than I realized. All to often we forget what we have and how blessed we are till we have to give it up for awhile. I definatly missed everyone here.
More Uuuuggggs for all.
Another wow tutorial!!!! I need to go get some diamond dust.
Those are great. Love how the ink looked after you put it on.
I can see a whole vase full of those Calla lilies with all different colored stamens. Wouldn’t that be pretty for Christmas with lights inside the vase? It’s 106 here what am I thinking?
This is so much fun. It adds dimension to your project. You could go crazy with the glass………
Thanks for an interesting and new tute. Your creativity is amazing!
That glass stuff looks very cool, especially with the alcohol ink like that. I can definitely see it in a bezel covered in resin (to be fair I see everything in a bezel covered in resin these days, but you know what I mean, lol). that would give you all the sparkle and protect your skin too.
And yay, the diamond dust’s available here in the UK, I saw it on Amazon! It’s now on my wish list and I’m having to resist buying some right away – I’ve spent so much on craft stuff recently since I got my die-cutting machine (aren’t embossing folders cool? Dual purpose as well since you can texture clay with them).
Hey guys… thanks for all the wonderful comments!!!
Did you notice the NEW little blinking CreateForLess ads, near the top right of the blog side bar? They are having a sale right now on Martha Stewart Products, which may be a great place to get some nice glitter or some of those tiny glass no hole beads for this tutorial.
As well the Vintaj Etch and Embossing Dies used in the Embossed Metal Tutorial we did just awhile ago, are also on sale (20%-25% Off).
They also carry the Diamond Dust for this Glass Encrusted Stamen Tute (though it is not on sale), if you want to throw that into your order.
Just scroll up to the top of the page and click on one of the little blinking CreateforLess ads, and you will be taken to their site. Then type what you are looking for in the search box and you’ll find what you need quite quickly.
CreateforLess is an advertising affiliate of ours, so we do get a small percent of every order, if you would like to support us in that way. It’s not a lot, but every little bit helps in keeping the cost of my tutorials down.
Sale goes until June 18th, 2012. Free shipping to US on orders over $100.
This is a great addition to your blog, and their choices are endless. Prices are really good, too. They ship fast. Thank you!!!
I love Create For Less
, I have spent way too much on their website but their prices are so good and they have such a good selection.
I could not find any blinking lights at the top of the Blog sidebar though, is it not working? Does create for less have stick pins I wonder. I love that Calla lily stick pin. Oh, I just got another outlet to sell my jewelry at! Merle Norman Cosmetics has a store here and they took 12 pieces today! The nice thing is they are located in a historical district which brings in a lot of tourists so hopefully it will be a good connection. Yea!
Congrats again Dixie, another account. How cool is that! Pretty-please post pics over at Cindy’s PCT Facebook page?
Thanks to Silverleaf for the info on Amazon, I’d been wondering where to find Diamond Dust. I did ask about crushed glass glitter at my local craft shop yesterday, and got a blank stare ….
Unfortunately I noticed that on Amazon the postage is nearly as much as the item, which is outrageous as it effectively doubles the price. However I just found another UK website called That’s Crafty, which stocks Diamond Dust for around half the price (£2.49 instead of £5.68, and yes, same weight) and also half the postage, so it really does pay to shop around a bit.
I’m normally way behind with Cindy’s tutes as I’m usually in the middle of something. But I can’t wait to have a crack at these gorgeous calla lilies, I can see so many possibilities! Thank you so much Cindy for another inspiring project. (By the way, I’d love to know how you achieve that cool verdigris-copper effect ….. )
Brilliant Lesley, thanks for finding that! I had a quick look round as well and found diamond dust at:
That’s Crafty, £4.99 inc postage
Crafts U Love, £5.48 inc postage
The Craftz Boutique, £6.54 inc postage
Obviously That’s Crafty is the cheapest, but I’ve included the others because I know I often decide where to buy stuff based on what other items they have in stock – if I can collect together enough things I was intending to buy anyway and get free postage, that’s all the better. :)
Hobbycraft also sell it – currently at £2.99 if you have a store near you. The website’s currently sold out but they probably have it in the stores.
Hi Cindy and all,
Well that sounds lik a great idea, moving round the country to meet some of the poly clayers.
Id love to be there, hope I am still on this planet when you ever get to Australia.
Love the idea of the Crushed glass on the poly clay.
Last year I did a glass fusing class at our local College, so have some crushed glass I can use for this project.
We call it Frit and here in OZ it can be found on the Glass selling sites.
You can of course make your own,( glass between lots of newspaper,bash with a hammer,)
and you must wear protective glasses, which wouldnt be a bad idea, even using
the Diamond Dust, they dont cost much.
I hope to do this tute soon, so will be trying my Frit, also would think covered in resin
would add to the beauty.
Anyway thanks again for a lovely idea.
Love to all,
Bye
E. XX
Peggy, so good to have you back! Thank you so much for sharing your zoster/shingles issues, too. I know it was painful, but, I’ll bet you were responsible for getting a lot of folks who read it to contact their doctors for that shot to lessen/prevent symptoms.
Here, our RiteAid Pharmacy is starting a new outreach program to all elderly/disabled facilities in the surrounding area. If they get 5 folks to sign up, they will come and administer whatever flu shots are current, the pneumo vaccine, and the zoster shot. What a boon, and at significant discounts.
I went to Michael’s last night and they had no idea what I was talking about. I went on the internet and found the Diamond Dust at Create For Less
. If you buy 3 jars it’s $2.49 a jar plus shipping. It was 3 something if you bought less than 3 jars.
Hi Bonnie, I think I found the Diamond Dust in Michaels in the area where they have the Gold Leaf and such. It was on a shelf down below, close to the floor. It was in one of those small middle aisles where some of the leather working stuff is, the candle making section, the stencils and the Martha Paints are. Bet if you looked around in there you would find it.
Unfortunately most craft store employees don’t know all the different kinds of products there are or where to find them in the store. There is probably just too many different products to learn and just because they work there, doesn’t mean they are crafters and understand what people are trying to ask for, when they haven’t got an exact product code.
I think the stores should have a better system for tagging products with keywords in the computer, as the product comes into the stores. That way an employee could just do a search on their system to see where in the store a certain product may be. Like with the Diamond Dust, it is not always in a location that you would expect.
I can’t tell you how many times I have overheard a customer asking for a product and the employee trying hard to figure out what they are talking about. Then wandering around, seeing if they can stumble on it. Often I then have to lead the customer and staff member to the right department.
Being a craft teacher for many years and loving to mix things up with polymer clay mixed media jewelry, I regularly take an hour or so to slowly make my way through every single aisle, keeping my mind open to new products and new ways to use them. I think it should be part of each craft store employees’ daily routine, to travel the aisles and get to know what is in there. Plus I don’t think it would hurt if they gave them an opportunity to ‘play’ with the materials, to better understand what makes them work. (Michaels are you listening?)
Online is better and cheaper. But you don’t get to walk around and oogle. LOL. We have a ton of major chains here, just did a small JoAnns the other nite with a friend. SO MUCH FUN.
While reading all about crushed glass (diamond dust) I knocked over my half full pint glass of orange squash. Panic, as my little Jack Russel was tearing about. So she was shut in the bathroom while I cleared it up.
First, dustpan and brush, then masking tape rolled sticky side out onto a cardboard tube. Took ages but managed to get every splinter up (I hope). The thicker base of the glass shattered into tiny cubes while the thinner walls splintered? So will keep the tiny cube shaped ones, sure to come in usefull for future projects.
Thanks to Lesley Symons for heads up on where to buy D.D in UK, must check it out.
To Dixie Ann, congrats on getting another outlet for your stunning creations (and you thought you were not good enough!!)
To Silverleaf . If Cindy and Co. makes it to the UK it would be great to organise a party for them all and perhaps take over a few caravans on a site near you, (beautiful countryside) with use of their clubhouse for a long weekend of fun. Heavily discounted of course!
I have a “Cindy” piggy bank as my sister lives in US and keeps asking me to visit, so when Cindy gives us her itinery I will be booking my flight!!!Till then I must stop feeding my “Cuttlebug” but it gets so hungry LOL…….cheers…xx……
Ah, Elaine…your posts make me smile! I use a sticky rolling clothing cleaner to finish up after glass breakage. It seems to pick up the smallest slivers, which is good.
Thank you Elaine, I just know I can do better like Cindy, Monique, Lynda and a lot of others in this group. Wow, they are really clay artists! Cindy, there are no blinking lights at the top of the blog but there are two little tiny boxes that I clicked on which got me to the Create for Less sale page. I did get my Diamond Dust at Michaels back in the Glue dept. It was 8.99 with 40% off already but I always check out the sites your linked up to first. Michaels does not carry the Darice Craft Tray so I’m off to check the Dollar Store. Amazon’s price is too high when you add the shipping costs. Can Doug figure out why I don’t have blinking lights? That is such a cool feature and I would have checked that out first.
Hi Dixie Ann,
Although there are no actual “blinking lights” at the top of the blog, those two little “CreateForLess” boxes that you clicked on, are supposed to “blink” the messages they display. If they are not doing that for you, it would be because of your browser settings. A quick work around if you don’t know how to adjust the settings, is to try a different browser. So if you are using Internet Explorer, for example, switch to Firefox or Chrome.
Thanks Doug, I am using Firefox and now that I know I have to click on the two little boxes that is fine. I don’t know how to adjust the browser settings and IE is not set up for me to use. I will have my son check it out when he comes home.
Dixie, you might want to try Google Chrome as your browser. I love it.
Cindy, I have a question on Etching Polymer Clay. I know I need copies of designs on Toner or Laser copiers. If I went over to Staples and had them run a bunch of copies, how long would the copies be good for until I could transfer the design onto the clay?
Would I have to use them right away or could I store them in a drawer in a folder for awhile? I only have an inkjet printer. Please let us all know.
Hi Dixie, I actually don’t know the ‘life span’ on a toner prints effectiveness for easy transfers. I think you will be safe to make up several copies and just use them as you need them though. If I remember correctly, I did do a transfer using some pretty old photocopies (more than a year old) and didn’t have any problems with it. But it would be a good thing to test for yourself. It may work better when fresh, but it may also make no difference at all. Hopefully that helps!
I would agree with Cindy’s comment; since the toner powder is “baked” onto to the paper by the light and heat of the copier, it should be stable indefinitely. It is the paper itself that needs protection from excess moisture that could degrade it.
Thanks Monique, you guys are such a big help! My studio is in the lower level so it is always cool and I will keep them in a file cabinet. Thats where I do all my embroidery work also and it has to stay cool and dry.
That does help Cindy, I have been tearing my hair out trying to figure out if I should get a lazer printer or a color printer. Both my color printers just decided to go ka-put at the same time. I think I will get a wireless color inkjet and hook it up to both laptops and then just get the laser copies printed at staples. Well I sure won’t be doing it, thank heavens my son is coming home this weekend, I just had an epidural and am waiting around until Friday for the next fabulous tute!
Just went to Staples to copy a whole bunch of stuff, and added a few choices for this tute. The help yourself section was down, so I had a rep do it there. They use lovely 28 something thicker paper to run the copies, lovely.
However she refused to copy my music samples. To get those, I have to go back when I can use the self serve bank and buy the 28 weight paper to use, instead of the regular.
The friend I went with bought a new laser printer, to share her photography with me, and can copy stuff for me I put in a file for her. Yay!
Another absolutely wonderful tut! Like my” shingles sister”, Peggy, I haven’t been around much but finally feel the urge to seriously clay again. Anyway, first of all, I’m so excited about the road trip I can’t stand it.Taking Dixie Ann’s suggestion a bit further I’m wondering if we as a group can do an organized letter writing campaign (emailing) to potential sponsors. Dixie Ann mentioned Premo-they should be good for about a million bucks with all the publicity Cindy provides for them, not to mention the sales she personally generates as we all run out to buy the exact colors she uses in the tutorials. (Maybe not a million but you get my drift.). There are just so many tools and products that Cindy has put on the map and if promoting them further on the road trip is part of the plan, I can’t imagine the companies NOT wanting to help. How about photography products that Doug uses? Seems to me that the possibilities are endless.
Could we do it in some kind of petition format? If that is a possibility and I had help selecting sponsors, editing( including approval from Cindy & Doug) and setting up the mechanism that would allow all of us to add our signatures electronically, I will volunteer to draft the various petitions. Anyway, just a thought. Can you imagine? “Coming soon to a location near you–THE LIETZ CLAN” WooHooooo!
Oh, Elizabeth we have all missed your comments…..lol. I wonder if that would be possible. Either way would be okay as long as someone hinted about what to write. I’m not good in the messaging department.
Glad you’re back…..
Andrea
Great to see you back, Elizabeth! Think you have a great idea, and I’d be more than glad to help.
Shingle sisters huh well I very much love the sisters title but the shingles well unfortunately we both know what that title feels like. Although mine is better it has taken up occupancy in my eye and its. I so hope yours has moved out and never wants to come back.
Now i have no intention of staying on the shingle subject very long but for the safety of my fellow clayers. In the US they have changed the age to 50 for getting a shingle vaccine. I highly reccomend it to everyone over 50 and double to those with any kind of stress or other illness. Please it is more than worth the money!! Shingles is out there more than most of us ever thought.
Now on a much better more fun note. Elizabeth my dear shingle sister I love your idea of promoting the petitions to all the sponsors. The list goes 4-ever. Premo, all the different clay stores. Sizzex as mentioned, Wilton and just going back through all the tutorials with the list of supplies well as said the list goes on and on and on!!! I will start practicing on my electronic signature and make it ready for any and all lists. You are definately the Woo Hoooo in all and your letter writing is technique is AWESOME!! You are perfect for this type of job. My Vote is YES!!!!!!!
Cindy the thought of having a chance to meet with you and your family is just well I think you know what it would mean to most of us. Thank you for even thinking of this idea. I have goose bumps just thinking about it. Across the Map claying with the Lietz family. What an opportunity to learn so much more.
Uuuggggs to the idea and everyone here!!!
Absolutely agree and a petition format with everyone’s signature would be a great idea.
Great to have you back Elizabeth (and Peggy)!
You are definitely on the right track Elizabeth (and others)… with the petition idea. For this roadtrip idea to work, we will need to rally the troops so to speak, and get as much upfront support as possible from the community.
You are also correct about how much revenue is currently being generated for products and companies that Cindy demo’s in the tutorials. But we have only scratched the surface. In my opinion, I believe there’s a huge opportunity for the right group of sponsors to benefit from what we are proposing with this pctRoadtrip project.
Personally, I think that Michael’s would be a perfect “marquee” sponsor, since they have many, many locations nationally throughout both the US and Canada. Rolling up to their stores in our PcT rig (wrapped with sponsor logos of course), would go a long way to generating some unique publicity for them… not to mention… filling up their on-site classrooms with enthusiastic clayers who are most likely going to want to stock up on supplies during the visit.
Polyform, the makers of Premo… also a natural fit!
Since there are so many people that follow this site, I’m guessing we could tap into the “Six Degrees of Separation” principle to get in contact with some key decision makers at a few of the big potential sponsor companies. So please do put your thinking caps on…
By the way… Cindy and I have taken already the first leap of faith by investing a good chunk in an RV travel trailer large enough for doing long hauls. So… we are definitely committed! The next big acquisition will be a truck that can get us over any (rocky) mountains that get our way.
Natalie, PYM II Spray is called Preserve Your Memories II and it is a wonderful coating that is sprayed on finished polymer clay pieces, finished copper pieces, photos, cards and just about anything you want to preserve with a clear coating. A little goes a long way and you can purchase it online. Just google PYM II….You might even want to search on the Create For Less website.
Agree with Dixie, it’s great stuff. Think this is the site that invented it (?) with a video: precision-blue.com
Cindy introduced it to us, and if you search on it here, you’ll find a bunch of different comments and blogs where it was discussed.
I’m pretty sure I’ve seen demo vids on YouTube, too.
Couldn’t find it at Create for Less, but love using that new feature here. How easy can it get???!!!!
Just looked at the whole 59 comments for glass encrusted flower stamens, then realized that the pctRoad trip was responsible for all the excitment. Even if we cannot be there it is great to know Doug will have his trusty camera on hand to record the events going on, so we will get to see a lot of your beautiful country and your amazing talented family, plus the “clay” ones!
Just thinking about your sponsers. What about approaching the makers of the vehicles you will be using?
How about the cereals you eat at breakfast? Your fav. brand of cookies? Both could supply you with enough for your trip ! The petrol companies who will (no doubt be willing to supply your fuel) The possibilites ARE endless. Advertising is the MOST powerful way to get what you need. So sell your idea to as many American producers of anything and everthing you will be using on your trip………………I know it works………………….
Years ago I was asked for an original idea to collect a certain amount of money for a local animal charity to keep it from closing. The local council had just laid tarmac down on the wide pavement ouside our Aquatic shop. I decided it would make a wonderful black canvas for the local school children to “rent” a two foot square each for £1 per foot. I wanted them to chalk a picture of an animal, wild or their fav. pet. I contacted as many local traders as poss in the few days before the bank holiday and asked them for anything and everything that we could use. I was really surprised at their generosity.
Boxes and boxes of coloured chalks, marking- out tape for the squares, carpet samples for the kids to kneel on, food, drinks, a first-aid box and prizes for the kids that had entered.We were lent garden tables and chairs for the mums and dads to sit and watch as the children drew some really great pictures and the sun shone all day.
We had enough donated prizes for all the kids to recieve one each and the parents had a great time chatting and getting to know each other. At the end of the day we had reached our target, as people passing by had stopped to see what was going on and all donated to the fund.
The next day I was expecting a deputation from the local council and a reprimand for not asking permission. Instead, one gentleman said it was due to rain so they would turn a blind eye..He also put money in the hat!!
It stayed sunny for a whole week and word had got round (through the grapevine) so we had a continual stream of people wanting to see the childrens efforts and donating to the fund.Later the rain did a beautiful job of washing the pavement till it was black and gleaming, not a speck of chalk in sight. Luckily someone took snapshots of the day but I don’t expect those kids (all grown up now) will remember when they were allowed to let their artistic talents run wild…………….(.this was long before the days of mobile phones) but somehow that grapevine kept everyone in touch…………….cheers xx…..
I read every word of this wonderful story! It confirms my belief that when a seed is planted to create something for the greater good, people respond in amazing ways. Even the universe kicked in the rain to wash the pavement clean at the appropriate time. Wonderful!
I was just sort of playing around and googling CFOs of possible road trip sponsors. Seems like it would be very easy to find and contact them. Anyone got a next step plan that we could run by Cindy and Doug? I remain available to help as does Jocelyn.
First we need Cindy and Doug to come up with a master list of products and product suppliers. The suppliers could be both retail craft stores and online sites.
Then we research and list the contacts with addresses, phones and email addys. Develop a form letter, send through snail mail, follow up with an email and phone call.
Once they commit, their next contact seems like Cindy and Doug so that they develop and sign the contract for goods and services.
Does anyone have better ideas or can see problems with this approach?
How much lead time do we have?
What do you think Elizabeth?
I think you are spot on! Can’t wait to get started!
Great idea!
Just thinking of all the materials and supplies Cindy uses in creating her jewelry and tutorials and got a list going. We can all add to this list and get emails and addresses for the suppliers.
Premo
Sculpey
Tim Holtz
Sizzix
Paper (cardstock etc)
Clay tools – Amaco
Wilton cake tools
Resin
Inks and pearlex powders
Gilder’s paste
jewelry making tools
Photography
wire
jewerly findings – bezels, blanks
torch
Big help, Cheri, and sure appreciate it.
Wow, Cindy and Doug,
Don’t you have some amazing talented members who are contributing (brainstorming) for ideas to get a bunch of sponsers for the pctRoadTrip.
Jocelyn and Elizabeth, I just love the interaction that is going on here. Even if I didn’t even know what polymer clay was (and many people here in UK do not!) I imagine that after the pctRoadTrip a whole lot of Americans will become aware of this versatile medium and I expect sales of related items will rocket………..how exciting…………
As Elizabeth said “Plant a seed” and watch it grow.
So here is a message to all you PRODUCERS of POLYMER CLAY, TOOLS, and all the CRAFT-RELATED items that CINDY uses and DOUG films. Get behind them SPONSER THEIR GREAT IDEA.
It will be FREE PUBLICITY.
Mmmmm think I will contact my broker (hee hee) to invest in some shares in some of these small companies, then sit back and watch them GROW……cheers xx…………
I think these are great ideas. I like the idea of the form letter. I have never been a leader but I’m great backup……lol.
Explain a little more what you mean, PollyAnna. Lots of folks get different mental pics for form letters. What would you like to see?
Also, should these letters contain a survey with a fax return or return evelope?
What questions would be important, and do we do the 1 through 5 method, let them tell us things with open ended paragraphs or another?
If you’d like I’d sure appreciate it if you’d pre read some of the stuff for errors and image presentation, and tab up some final results as checker 1-5.
Does something in there sound fun?
Anybody else……..
We need logos and images that scream Cindy/Doug, PCT blog, polymer clay, Premo………..
Cherie, add to the list, wire, jewerly findings and bezels. which would probably come under Terry and his Ultra Dome.
Kinda wish Doug & Cindy would drop in (hint hint)—–would sure like to know if we can start moving all these great ideas forward and what they would like included in a letter ( or if this is even the direction they want to go) . I’m thinking too that we can also use our individual FB pages to get the word out, especially because we all have so many pc artists as friends, not all of whom necessarily subscribe to the site. A posting in the IPCA newsletter will be a must once the dates and itinerary are known. Getting ahead of myself I know, but if we all commit to posting here when we think of things, we’ll end up with a treasury of information from which we can draw, all in one place.—————-OK, I’ll be quiet now.
Would love to have you do a workshop or class here in Mississauga.
OK Elizabeth… my ears are burning … :-)
Thanks everyone for getting the brainstorm going… all great stuff!!!
In regards to a master list of products and suppliers, we don’t have anything formal like that on paper. But… you guys pretty much know all of them anyway… from just watching the past 4 years of tutorials.
I think the first goal will be to find a marquee “national” sponsor like I said above. And that often comes from getting a key introduction from someone who knows a senior executive that can pull the right strings to make something happen (the six degrees of separation concept).
In the meantime, what we’ll do is use this month’s 5th Friday (June 28/29) to publish a video here at the blog that will create a “home base” for everyone to do the “virtual petition” thing.
In the comments section of the 5th Friday post, it would be great to hear stories about how Cindy and our PcT Videos have influenced your polymer clay buying activities. That is the kind of stuff that will get potential sponsors to take notice.
Each comment should include your city or town so that we can pin all the locations on a Google Maps presentation. FYI: We’ll need some “pinning” volunteers to help with the Google Maps project (virtual scrapbookers wanted… lol).
If we can demonstrate a significant presence of enthusiastic clayers from coast to coast… some sponsors may even proactively approach us with expressions of interest. Always open to that…
Having you guys tell all of your pcFriends about the upcoming 5th Friday post (once it is published of course), will be key to getting some momentum going for this project.
What do you all think about shooting for 1000 virtual signatures (comments) in the upcoming 5th Friday post…? Now wouldn’t that be exciting to see ;-)
If we try, we could do that…name the sponsors, but what other data do you need from us on them? Maybe I am misunderstanding?
Now that’s a plan!!!! I wish I had an “in” with a potential marquee sponsor but I think you are right in thinking that if we do this 5th Friday thing right, CEOs couldn’t help but recognize the value of being part of this.
So, let me understand exactly the vision about what the CEOs will receive—–obviously the petition and the map, but is there anything else(besides advertising the petition etc.) we can be working on at this point? I’d volunteer to be the pinning person but with my limited computer skills I would set the project back a hundred years.
Elizabeth… you asked if “…there anything else we can be working on at this point?”
One thing we will need is some “case study” information to show “proof of concept” that others have already done what we are proposing. Sponsors like to see examples as benchmarks.
As a start, here are a couple of links check out for ideas…
Road Trip Nation
Long Long Honeymoon
I’d like to build as big a list as possible to other stories like this. This would be a fun Google research project that a few of you could definitely help out with if you like.
I’m in. Thanks for the links to get us started.
I’m happy to help with map pinning! I used to keep track of where my Etsy buyers are that way. It’ll be interesting to see where everyone is – coming from a country that’s very small (the UK’s a bit smaller than Florida or Oregon) I don’t really appreciate how spread out my friends “over the pond” are.
And I honestly dread to think how much of my craft spending over the last few years is a direct result of this blog. I switched to Premo, bought alcohol inks, Perfect Pearls, resin, die cutter, a million paintbrushes and cutters and tools, pigment ink, acrylic paint, glitter… the list goes on and on. Cindy shows me ways to use products I never even knew I needed! ;)
Ahhh… we have a “pinner” :-) … Thanks Silverleaf.
Having a few pinners would be good… so if there is anyone else that would also like to volunteer, that would be awesome!
PS: That last part of what you said above, Silverleaf, about how Cindy has influenced your polymer clay related buying habits, is exactly the type of comment we are hoping to seeing posted in the upcoming 5th Friday post (Jun 28/29). Potenntial sponsors really do need to hear that kind of thing from all of you guys.
Glad to be able to help Doug! I have to admit that I’m really wanting this trip to be a huge success for you guys so you’ll come to the UK next time… ;) Plus it will be awesome for so many of my lovely clay friends to be able to meet up with you.
K, reread you Doug. Can you still give some of us a list of companies to try and cold call? You’d be surprised at the number of CEO/CFO’s who are smart enough to return a phone call.
If they did, we’d need a package of information to immediately fax or email them to keep it fresh in their minds.
What do you think?
Sorry Jocelyn, we just have not had time to compile a formal list of vendors/suppliers. But if you are interested in taking this job on as a pre-launch task, that would be awesome!
Basically, you would just need to go through tutorials and make a list of all the companies/products that Cindy has referenced in the past. If you could get the contact info for each company, we could give each one their own pin on “the virtual map” discussed above. Looking up who the appropriate contact person(s) would also be a key piece of info to add to the spreadsheet.
No problem, Doug. Will start from most recent to earliest. Names of products and suppliers used in tutorials, need contact information.
Assume you need head of company and head of department servicing the product. Snail mail addresses, emails, and if I can find it, a short bio on each. Contact numbers and fax numbers. Do you want their last annual sales on that object?
Awesome Jocelyn! Depending on the size of the company, it’s usually the VP of Marketing or VP of Business Development that’s makes the decisions on sponsorship arrangements. Bio’s are are always good to have… and a direct email address + direct phone. Fax numbers not so important these days. If it’s a public company you would be able to access annual sales figures from their most recent quarterly and/or annual report.
Great Doug, we are on the same wavelength. How many do you need? Any preferences (email me privately if you like). When do you need this information?
Always enjoy a quick chat, so if easier, feel free to pick up the phone.
Thanks!
This also means I have to review all the videos because Cindy shows and mentions new stuff in every one, and new stuff in the comments and blogs. What a wonderful way to revisit this site, I will learn a lot.
Doug, going to start by products per video, that way if Dixie’s interested and you need spreadsheet data, she can give you a way to compare and get numbers.
I think it might be educational but maybe boring for the members if I listed that info, though maybe a summary comment at the bottom of each blog is not a bad idea. That way, Dixie could pick it up, and maybe some other folks might come up with a neat graphic package we could send introducing the road trip and the fact that you and we use their products extensively.
In the last comment I will first list what Cindy used, then list membership suggestions from the comment section for alternatives. Boy, am I glad you added that purchase list to each blog over the last so often, will make it easier.
From that Master List I will develop another that will allow me to research each company to get the data we need.
Does that sound logical? Does anyone wish to help?
Hi Jocelyn – I responded below.
For starters
amaco.com/
sculpey.com/
micro-surface.com/ sanding pads
sizzix.com/
timholtz.com/
dremel.com/
lortone.com/
swarovski.com/ crystals
jacquardproducts.com/ pearlex powders
Jonestones.com foils
wilton.com/ wilton cake flower cutters & tools
beadalon.com/ katiedid bezels….
vintaj.com/ die cuts
mastercraft storage
monalisa-artmat.com/goldleafproducts.htm not too sure about this link for the metal leaf
We all forgot about :
Katie hacker and her Katidids bezels!
Is everyone comfortable with the approach? I am trying to plan for nocturnal, air conditioned, and fully prepped for inspection for the next two months, so I sure have the time, just need to budget it. More than glad if someone wants to jump in on this too, it’s just once the weather goes bad, muggy and hot, I run on a different time frame and might be tough to coord. Anybody have any quick and easy links to find the info Doug and Cindy need before I venture into google.com?
Jocelyn, you sound like a take charge sort of gal and I am so impressed with how everyone is digging in to try and help Cindy and Doug get on the road. The list of manufacturors and suppliers looks really good. I don’t know what “pining” is but am glad there is a volunteer to do it. I am pretty good at spreadsheets but don’t know how that could be of help in this situation. I also wanted to remind all of our Cancer Survivors that the American Cancer Society is holding it’s biggest fund raiser right now called the Relay for Life and thousands of them are being held all over the country to raise funds to help find a cure for Cancer. Please support them if you can. God Bless You All…
Dixie, as the case has it, spread sheets are my nemesis, and if you are good at that, we might want to team up.
Doug and Cindy might what a compilation of data from all the findings and a way to compare it.
What do you think, Doug?
Jocelyn – Teaming up with Dixie Ann sounds like a great plan if she open to that. BTW… yesterday morning, I emailed an Excel spreadsheet to you with a very basic layout that might help you to get started. Hopefully you received it. If not, let me know.
Thanks Dixie, but that can be an asset and a liability. Don’t want others not to participate or feel like I am “overeaching” or assuming too much.
I love feedback and constructive criticism so let it fly.
Joycelyn and Doug, I would love to help with the spreadsheets if needed. I am not good at complex formula’s just simple ones but I did train our office personnel in using the MS Office 7. I do not however use MS Office now but rather the OpenOffice software which is almost identical and will open the MS documents. You and Doug though would have to download and install the OpenOffice to read whatever I send back. Don’t know if that would be a problem or not. The download is free and is updated automatically. Perhaps you can email me a copy of the spreadsheet Doug sent you and I can let you know if we can work it out together but I sure am game to do it.
I use Open Office too – you can save your files in a MS Office friendly format by selecting File, Save As, then changing the file type in the drop down list. If you select .xml for spreadsheets (.doc for Word) then anyone using MS Office will be able to open the file without having to download Open Office. Sometimes the formatting doesn’t look right, but that doesn’t matter for a spreadsheet anyway.
So happy, thanks to Silverleaf and Dixie found the courage to download the free software they mentioned, and found I can use it. YAY!!!!
This site is so inspiring! Thanks to all of you….
WOW you guys are such blessings to this Road Trip. I don’t have any computer knowledge at all. I would so like to help anywhere I can. If at anytime you can use someone with minimal computer knowledge for anything. Please let me know. Back in the time of my daughter’s school days and sports along with our church Volunteer was my middle name. Since my last severe Fibro flare-up Brain fog truly took over for me. I think a lot of people think anyone who uses the term Brain Fog is just a little on the forgetful side. There is a lot more to it for many of us and not just with Fibromyalgia but other conditions. But if at some time you think of anything I could help you with I would love to. Love this and everyone here in this clay family.
So for now I will just volunteer some or many Uuuuggggggs and Prayers for this wonderful adventure.
Peggy dear heart, I have so many friends who have what you call “Brain Fog” It is most likely a chemical reaction to the drugs they have to take especially if they are Chemo patients. I have seen and worked with many of them. You have nothing to apologized for. We are just so glad you are here and able to clay with us. The other half of my heart was so wrought with it before passing away from Luekemia, he used to get so frustrated because of it. My best friend has the worst case I have ever seen. We just go on loving them and helping them in every way we can. You never have to apologize for being you. (((hugs)))
Brain fog is real, and affects folks with fibromyalgia and MS most it seems. Some new research being done (I get to participate which is tres cool). Google the topic, you will be surpised.
Hi Cindy and all, been experimenting again and didn’t have the right colors for alcohol inks for the glass stamens. I did however have several different colors in the Daler-Rowney Pearlescent Liquid Acrylic. This turned out to be a wonderful medium where you can mix the colors and get great combo colors for the stamens. You can either apply it with a brush or squirt it on with the applicator although the applicator makes a little bit of a mess so have plenty of paper towel down. I followed your tute for the inks with this medium and you can’t tell whether its acrylic or ink. I followed up with a quick dry with the heat gun. A finished clear coat is a definite last step. I made a couple of additions to these beautiful Lilies and will post on facebook when finished. Thank you for such a great tutorial. I love the sculpturing tutes of flowers. Any way you could come up with more of them?. I really love the detail. (((hugs)))
If you are taking more fb friends I would love to see your work. I love taking the tuts to new levels and I love seeing other members do the same. We all have different skill levels and ideas and this site is such a wonderful inspiration!!!! Just let me know or fb me at Heidi wyrick polymer clay
Heidi, I just saw your post, Mea Culpa dear heart. I will friend you on FB. Thanks so much for the nice comments.
HI Cindy,
Great tutorial….again. I do have a question though. I want to make one of the etched calla lilies and was just wondering how you did the finish on the inside. I bought the etched clay video too but you just showed flat pieces. Since you have to bake the etched piece first, I was just wondering what you used/could use to bring out the etching and how to clean the rest of the interior so only the etching showed. I realize there may be some staining but I just want the etching to “pop.”
BTW-I know you have left You Tube. Are you still making polymer clay videos? I’m not seeing any recent tutorials either. I now have the time to work on PC and was wondering.
Thanks,
Robie
Hi Robie, in regards to your question, you can color the etchings with acrylic paint or a polymer clay safe rub like Gilders Paste. Rub it into the etching and let dry a little. Wipe away the excess off the surface with a damp paper towel or with a little rubbing alcohol. The color will stay in the etching and come off the surface.
As far as YouTube, we haven’t quit, we just have taken a long break, until we finish with the new website. We will be back as soon as we are done there. I am still making tons of content for our Studio Cam Members.
Glad to see you’re getting excited about polymer clay!! Have fun!