The Art Of My Clay

The new Pantone colours (as seen by Carolyn at 2goodclaymates)

2012-02-08T14:39:00.000-05:00

I landed on the 2goodclaymates blog today and was intrigued by Carolyn's musings on the new Pantone colours.
The colours are wonderful and Carolyn gives examples and even some recipes for mixing certain colours.
She definitely has an eye for colours.
If you scroll down she mentions how many of us (me included!!) have our favourite colours and how we sometimes keep using the same ones over and over (yep, that's me too!) Can you say green and turquoise" Those are the colours that I'm addicted to. Throw in some metallic (usually silver but lately copper is a fav too) and you pretty well have my colour scheme summed up!

I admire how Carolyn can use so many different colour schemes in her work.
I don't normally make New Years resolutions but this year I have secretly vowed to try to get out of my colour rut. (it was a secret 'til now

I now have Carolyn's Colour Clay System tutorial. It looks pretty epic. I've printed it out (it's over 50 pages) She covers a lot of ground in this tut. I can't wait to dive in.

Here is some of what's included in her tutorial.
* how to mix clay color recipes and organize them with your own color library system
* how to mix up new colors by making your own Custom Color Wheel Charts
* how to make a Six-Step Color Blend
* a fun technique for testing color combinations I call my Mini-Mokume
* how to make some beads from your mokume

To learn more go here.

Simple little reminders

2012-02-06T18:42:00.001-05:00

I just love getting these simple little reminders in my in-box. It can help to ground me and put me in my place! I hope that it can touch someone else in a simple way too.

A Secret Scrolls message from Rhonda Byrne
Creator of The Secret and The Power

From The Secret Daily Teachings

Today, be grateful. Be grateful for your favorite music, for movies that make you feel good, for your phone that connects you with people, for your computer, and for the electricity that lights up your life. Be grateful for air travel that flies you everywhere. Be grateful for the roads and traffic lights that keep the traffic in order. Be grateful to those who built our bridges. Be grateful for your pet, for your child, for your loved ones, for your eyes that enable you to read this. Be grateful for your imagination. Be grateful that you can think. Be grateful that you can speak. Be grateful that you can laugh and smile. Be grateful that you can breathe. Be grateful that you are alive! Be grateful that you are You!

Be grateful that there are two words that can change your life.

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

May the joy be with you,

Rhonda Byrne
The Secret... bringing joy to billions

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The new All-In-One CaBezel molds are here and available

2012-01-29T22:31:00.000-05:00

Another great tool to add to your arsenal. They are still made from the translucent photopolymer that allows you to see through to your clay for perfect design placement. It’s a definite advantage over rubber.

The concept is similar, but they are a bit different too! For those of you that are familiar with the original CaBezels, you’ll know that one side of the mold is for forming the Cabochon and right next to that is what is used to form the matching Bezel.
With the new All-In-Ones, the cabochon mold is centered inside the bezel mold! This allows for both to be created at the exact same time. Of course that also means that both LOOK exactly alike but it is so easy to change either the cab or the bezel. I like to add a thin cab made of different clay on top of the one that is already there. These molds are great for photo transfers too. You no longer have to try to shape a transfer to a curve!

Another thing that sets them apart from the originals is the large bezel. These were designed this way for those of you that like to create things large, and also so that you could cut the bezel to whatever shape you want. Leave it large and square if you’re into making tiles (mosaic), book covers, belt buckles, purse closures or large pendants. OR cut them down to the a size that suits. You can add texture to them too.

The 3 shapes that are now available are the circle , the heart and the square (with rounded corners).

I’ll be recording some “how to” videos to show you how I’ve used them so far.

This collage shows the simple progression:

I sheeted some scrap clay on the thickest setting.

I added some silver guilder's paste.

When it was dry I placed the clay on a piece of paper and then used the new All-In-One mold on top.

Then I added some texture to the bezel with a needle too.

Then I started to shape the bezel.

I could have just rounded off 2 sides but i chose to round off all 4 sides with my bendable tissue blade.

I could have made the bezel round by using a cookie cutter. I instead just used the cookie cutters to impress a few lines. (bake it)

Then i added some alcohol inks to the cabochon. When dry, i added a layer of liquid clay and baked it again.

Then I added some blue alchohol ink around the outside.

That was easy!!!!!

I used a fine spritz of water as a release when needed.
Clean up can be made with mild detergent and water or rubbing alcohol. But remember, no products containing ammonia please.

The new CaBezel molds have arrived!!!!!

2012-01-28T21:16:00.000-05:00

I'm so excited that the new molds have arrived from the manufacturer, They are bigger and better than ever! The concept is new.....no longer is the cabochon mold beside the bezel mold. It's right inside the bezel! That's why I've named them All-In-One.
Confused??? No need to be.
Have a peek at this video (my debut, ughhh!) It explains the concept. I'll follow up with some other vids on how you can use the new All-In-Ones soon!!!!

7 Great Ways to Teach Yourself Polymer Clay (A nifty little e-book)

2012-01-01T22:43:00.000-05:00

Cynthia Tinapple from Polymer Clay Daily has put together this wonderful little e-book full of polymer clay tutorials. (my buna cord ring tut even made it in there on page 6) Click here to see more and to share it with others too.

This tutorial comes from Parole de pate

2011-12-08T18:33:00.001-05:00

I created this quick slideshow a few years ago. It's an easy way to make Christmas ornaments, gifts tags or brooches. Frosty uses the "Organic" CaBezel mold and "Santa" uses the oval from the "Geometrics" set. I'm sure someone could easily adapt this method to make a reindeer or two!!!! Click here to view the slideshow. (you may have to click on the "back" arrow to get to the beginning. You should be able to adjust the speed)
There MUST be a better way to embed it but for the life of me, I just can't figure it out on the 2 hours of sleep that i managed to get last night!

Day 319: Self-help Advice from a 2 year old

2011-12-04T08:39:00.000-05:00

Day 319: Self-help Advice from a 2 year old

I was spoon-fed this link from another blog that i follow. It goes great with a cup of coffee. It sure made me laugh out loud this morning. Enjoy!!

Awwwwww

2011-11-30T23:17:00.001-05:00

This is my daughter's cat Leah. (Of course it's never my daughter that gets up at 6:30am to feed her!)
She is the best cat ever though!!!!

Thank-you from the bottom of my heart!! (pun intended of course!)

2011-11-29T15:21:00.001-05:00

You guys have been awesome! Your responses and comments started rolling in just minutes after I posted and they kept on coming!
I'm so grateful for all of your help that I am going to draw 2 winning names instead of just one!
I wish I could reply to all of you individually! Please accept my thanks and gratitude.
Are you ready for the winning "heart" ?
It was chosen by a landslide of 59 votes!!

Drum roll please..............................
The winner is # 10
#4 came in 2nd with 22 votes
#6 and#7 tied for third with 18 votes each

I mentioned that this vote was for a new series of CaBezels. Sort of an all-in-one type of mold.You'll even get to decide how thick and what shape the bezel will be. These will be very customizable!!! They are going to be great for transfers too!!
Now for the really important stuff!! The winners of the raffle!
I photocopied everyone's name, cut it out and placed them in a hat (OK, it wasn't a hat. It was a really pretty wooden box) and then i drew 2 names. These ladies will each receive the new Heart mold as soon as they are available!!!
Another drum roll please.........

The winners are: Gillian Wiseman and Kam Kirsch
Congratulations ladies!! Please contact me with your snailmail information!
I'm hoping that these will be available very soon!

Thanks again to all who participated!
.
Through this process, I have discovered just much you love your "hearts" so I have decided that i will also create the original type CaBezel mold. It will have a few different shaped hearts with a few different sizes all in one mold!!!! (I'll see how many I can squeeze in!)

Do you want to be a WINNER!!!!!

2011-11-25T22:40:00.001-05:00

Of course you do darlings ,everyone wants to be a winner, and in this case it couldn't be easier!

I'd like to ask for YOUR input!
I have been working on a new concept for the CaBezels. I hope to introduce them soon, but first, I'd like to get your input on one of the shapes. So many people love hearts and of course I've have had a few requests for them. So this time I'm going to introduce one!! The trouble is, that there are sooo may different styles to choose from. Elongated, voluminous, stylized and on and on (you get the picture).
Soooooo, here is where YOU come in!!!
I have drawn several different styles but I just can't decide. So i thought that i would ask you for some help. I want to get moving on this so i'd like your opinion by Monday evening at 10:00pm. Heck, you can even send me a scan of the heart shape that your little heart desires if you want to. These new CaBezel molds will be larger than any that I've done in the past.(note the dines that I've included next to the hearts) Of course I'm thinking "jewelry" but mini book covers, belt buckles, or tiles would work well too.
As my way of saying "Thank-you" when you give me your input, I will put your name in a draw and the winner will get a "Heart shaped CaBezel mold!!!!

Just choose your 2 favourites and send the corresponding #'s to me in an email. Please put "Hearts" in the subject line. worlowski@sympatico.ca

There will be 5 new shapes in all. If you have any shapes that you've been dreaming about, send me an email and I'll see about adding it too!

Thanks in advance for all your input. You gals are the best!!

Pretty in Pink

2011-11-22T18:10:00.001-05:00

I just love seeing how one texture stamp can be translated so many different ways just by changing the colour scheme. I tend to have difficulty moving away from the greens and blues so when I saw how Carolyn, from Queens, New York used the Gingko Collage texture stamp I wanted to post the pic. Some of Carolyn's other work can be found here on Etsy.

Just Steampunk!!!

2011-11-18T15:19:00.000-05:00

For those of us that just can't seem to get enough Steampunk. Scott Publications has a special publication on the stands now. It covers everything from dolls to decor to jewelry and more! Over 100 pages of inspiring ideas!

Some of my designs are on pages 24 and 25 so if you are looking for ideas on how you can use your new "Straight and Narrow" texture stamp ofryour "Blocks 'n Dots" CaBezel mold you'll find some ideas there.

Here's how Steampunk is described by Scott publications:

"Steampunk is the future as dreamt by the past." Think bits of broken jewelry, corroded clock gears and vintage anything. But don’t forget the fantasy, the whimsy or most definitely the metallic. And Just Steampunk! features this unique style in all its glory, highlighting works of art in all types of media: paper arts, polymer clay, dolls, jewelry, accessories and more. Including over 300 full color photographs showcasing projects from a variety of talented designers, Just Steampunk is sure to satisfy the demand of die hard fans, or whet the appetite of the newly curious. Warning: Steampunk art may become addictive!"

Lizard CaBezel collar necklace. Gorgeous!!!!!

2011-11-08T21:05:00.000-05:00

Look at what else Carolyn of 2 Good Claymates has been up to. This necklace is gorgeous! I think Carolyn is managing to play around with the CaBezels molds more than I have. If you go to Carolyn's blog you'll see links to her artfire and Etsy sites. I really wish I could use my time as profoundly as she does. She must be one organized woman!

What a great idea!

2011-11-08T20:51:00.000-05:00

Carolyn of 2 Good Claymates has come up with a great gift giving idea. How much simpler can shopping be? She has created gift certificates and packaged them in beautifully covered tins. She used the Feather Boa texture stamp here.

Happy Friday!!!!

2011-11-03T23:14:00.000-04:00

Just thought that i would share a pic i just took of my favourite flower! The Gerbera daisy. I smile everytime i look at them. When i have a bouquet of these flowers I tend to split them up into groups of 3 and put them in vases made of milk glass (something else that i collect) I put a vase in the living room, one on my nightstand, one in the washroom and the single, leftover daisy goes on my desk beside my computer. Flowers give off good energy and make you happy. What could be more simple and joyful than that! Go out and treat yourselves to some flowers today! You deserve it!

Fabulous looking new book

2011-11-03T23:04:00.000-04:00

I love beads and I love books!

I know that sooo many of us have a weakness when it comes to collecting inspirational books. I have quite the collection myself. Most of them are are sitting neatly on a shelf less than 3 feet away from where I'm sitting. So much of what I have learned comes from books. I've snuggled up with many of them when It's just too yucky to go outside or I'm too tired to move or just when i want a little quiet time to myself. Allowing myself time with my books is a little bit of a ritual. I'll make myself a cup of tea or a latte in my favourite mug before plunking myself down in my favourite chair to read or just browse through a stack of books.

I'm not a beader, (i wish) but I am very attracted to a lot of it, especially the bead embroidery. That stuff is so yummy looking especially the cuff bracelets. I can't help but wonder what i could come up with using cabochons made with my CaBezel molds !!!!! Sadly, this will never happen, at least not if I have to do it. Beading and polymer cabochons are a match made in heaven no???

If anyone out there reading this does bead embroidery and has used cabochons from my molds I would absolutely love to see some pictures!!!

Now, back to this book. If you click here You can actually take a peek inside the book. Major eye candy. The cuff bracelets on page 9 are to die for. I think i'd just leave them on my coffee table all the time so that i could just look at them daily!!!

Here are a few of my books!!!

2011-10-17T10:52:00.000-04:00

I don't how things are going for you, but for me, this was the most perfect post to find in my inbox this morning! I would like to recommend that you read the post here. Have a great Monday!

is was

They're here! They're here! "Entwined" texture stamp

2011-09-19T15:41:00.000-04:00

I can't believe it, after so many weeks of waiting my texture stamps are finally here and available !!!

Entwined
Dragon scales and vines? Oh my!

Fluid and organic, this stamp contains elements reminiscent of dragons and nature. The gentle embrace of the two different textures evokes a feeling of serenity. (I must have been slightly sleep deprived when I came up with this description!)

"Entwined"

Now available

I made some jewelry samples a while back with "Entwined" and Even though i shouldn't have blogged about it before it was through the production process i did (i just couldn't help myself!) That's when it got picked up on Polymer Clay Daily. It's such a compliment to be mentioned on Cynthia Tinapple's blog. It's epic actually! (now i'm starting to sound like my kids! yikes)

If you missed it here is the post.

Here is the jewelry I made with "Entwined"

Guilder's paste and alcohol inks were used for the jewelry to get that ancient, unearthed look.

Gingko Collage

2011-09-19T13:30:00.001-04:00

Gingko Collage

The unique fan shaped leaf of the gingko tree remains a favourite of many. Could it be because of the way that the veins radiate out into the leaf blade? Maybe because the leaves are reminiscent of wings.
Either way, It’s a strong form with delicate lines. Lots of visual movement in this texture stamp!

Gingko Collage

(From the Impress It! line formerly called Gingko leaf 2)

I'm loving the Guilder's paste! I haven't been using it for very long but so far the results are amazing! This sample was made using black clay with Copper and Patina guilder's paste.added to the surface.

Gingko Collage
Available at Shades of Clay

Feather Boa texture stamp

2011-09-19T12:58:00.001-04:00

This is a quick pic that I created to show how great "Feather Boa" can look! Both examples started out with black clay that I used the Guilder's paste on. For the example on the left, I ran the black clay through the pasta machine with the texture stamp. Then, i just lightly rubbed a few different colours of the GP on the top surface, For the second example on the right, i covered the clay with Germsn silver GP and let it dry for a bit before running it through the pasta machine with the texture. Then I added different colours of the GP to the surface.

Feather Boa
Now available here!

Medallion video, That was easy!

2011-09-19T12:34:00.001-04:00

What a difference a day makes! Last night I couldn't figure out how to embed this video. It just shows what a difference a good night's sleep can do for you. (Even if the sleep wasn't nearly long enough!)

a "How to" video for 'the "Straight and Narrow" texture stamp

2011-09-18T23:41:00.002-04:00

Here's a "how to" video to help get you started with the "Straight and Narrow" texture sheet. It's very unique in that it measures 2' X 8" and it was designed to be cut apart into long strips and used to make medallions. It's also great for making borders and frames and of course you don't have to cut the strips apart. Let me know if you can come up with another interesting way of using it!
I can't for the life of me figure out how to embed the video this late at night so I'll just leave you with the link for now.
http://www.youtube.com/user/theartofmyclay#p/u/0/r6X40Daigb4

I posted some other "how tos" ages ago but apparently under different user names. I've managed to gather them up and put them all in one place. You may recognise a few.

"Straight and Narrow" texture stamp
Now available here!

It's way too late to post anything else. I'll be back soon with more details and samples!!!!! Thanks for all of the interest and support surrounding this new line of textures! I hope that you'll think it was worth the wait.

Polymer CAFE magazine

2011-09-15T14:57:00.000-04:00

The October issue of PolymerCafe is on the newstands now. (ok, ok, it's been available for a little while now. I just forgot to mention it) This issue is full of ideas on sculpting faces. A must have if you're a fan of the magazine. And yes, of course, I have a tutorial in there as well on making "Earth Crystal Pendants". Yet another way of using the CaBezel molds.

The CaBezels go "down under"

2011-09-11T15:18:00.001-04:00

It's great to find out about all of the different places that the CaBezels are travelling to these days! I came across this post by Davinia. She claims to be a newby working with the molds but her first attempts are fantastic. If you've been hesitating about trying out the CaBezels because you think they might be too difficult, then you can read all about Davinia's efforts here on her blog.

Image transfers and the CaBezel molds

2011-09-04T12:43:00.000-04:00

Cynthia Blanton has been playing with transfering vintage images and turning them into cabochons using my molds. Of course this means that the clay is un-baked when the transfer is done. Her pendants/pins are beautiflly done. You can read more about it here on her blog.

CaBezel ideas from Claire Maunsell

2011-08-14T21:55:00.002-04:00

Claire Maunsell has just recently started using the CaBezels. She refers to them as a "great production tool" and also says that she wishes she had thought of a tool like them! (what a great compliment huh?) She often alters the Cabezels by stretching them . She uses them to make shank buttons too! This pic shows some connectors she made with the Mini Cabezel mold and some crackled polymer....These particular ones were not thinned out, but used as is. You can see more of her work here on her blog. If your're not familiar with Claire's work you need to take a look. Her shapes and colours are so yummy and organic! I hope she'll send more photos in the future!

A different way to use your cabochon molds

2011-08-08T14:01:00.000-04:00

While I was using my cabezel mold to make some bezels I accidentally rubbed over top of the cabochon part of the mold. Since I was using black clay, my first thought was to just scrap the impressions. 'Cause who the heck wants black cabochons? Then I thought hmmmmm, why not use some small rubber stamps to make an impression and make something usable? Then I cut around them with cookie cutters (for the round ones) and purposely off-set the cut. Then using my Inka Gold paints I applied some colour! So easy! For the heart I just used a small cutter first to remove a heart from the cab and then again (with thin plastic wrap this time) to make a replacement heart. Turn them into pendants or charms easily using Japanese paper clips, chain links or even rivets.

I'm going to try to post more ideas on how to use your CaBezel molds.

If you look in the right margin of this blog you will see that you can now easily subscribe to my blog by email. All this means is, that whenever I publish a new post it will automatically go to your inbox. No more checking my blog to see if there is anything new. You'll be the first to know!! How cool is that?

2 new CaBezel mold designs now available!

2011-08-03T22:32:00.001-04:00

Well they're here. 2 new designs to help you create more bezels with matching cabochons. The bezels are nice and deep so you can fill them (the baked clay bezels) with liquid clay or resin or use the cabochon mold for a perfect fit.

The top one is called Fab Focals 2.

I don't think that there can ever be enough large Fabulous Focal bead shapes, so I've created 3 more.

This set is called "Blocks 'n dots" The frames are nice and chunky . Who doesn't like to use circles and squares in combination with each other.? The sizes for each bezel are listed on the Shades Of Clay site where they are available for purchase. (scroll way down) These are totally different in size and frame thickness than the"Geometrics "mold.

Delayed again!!!!

2011-08-03T12:57:00.001-04:00

It seems like so many months ago that I embarked on this journey, but, apparently the journey continues! Don't get me wrong, it has been an interesting and exciting trip. I just wish this first leg of it would end! But, as the saying goes "everything good is worth waiting for". Right? It seems that the manufacturer has hit a small bump on the road of production. I'm keeping my fingers crossed though that the texture stamps will arrive in a week or so. (at Shades Of Clay) Thanks for staying tuned!

Texture stamps

2011-08-01T10:12:00.001-04:00

Here is a sneak peak of my new texture stamp called "Entwined" I love it! It's so organic. Shades of Clay will have them available for sale very soon.

A sense of mystery

2011-07-25T14:29:00.001-04:00

You may remember that I posted a while ago about that "Rocky path" tutorial that I had so much fun with. Well as it turns out, Christy (the author of that tut) is a fan of my CaBezels. Lucky for me she took a pic of the pendant she made before wearing it out one day 'cause someone bought it right off of her neck! Way to go Christi!

To me this pendant evokes a sense of mystery. Maybe it's the colours, or maybe because the rectangular cabochon holds symbols that make me think of a full moon in the night sky? Hey, is that a doorway on the right? I wonder what it leads to.
I love to see how you guys have used the CaBezel molds. Please feel free to send your images my way and I'll see about posting them! worlowski@sympatico.ca

The biggest garage sale around

2011-07-04T23:08:00.000-04:00

We "creatives" seem to have many things in common, one of which is treasure hunting! Yes, we love the thrill of the hunt and the act of turning other people's trash into treasure. There is something magical that takes place when we can change something "old" into something "better" with our own hands. That's why I just had to blog about the upcoming garage sale this Sunday. This is an annual event that has been going on for many years. I've been attending for about the last 5. It always takes place the second Sunday in July so this year it falls on the 10th.
It takes place on Beach Blvd in Hamilton, right on the border it seems where Hamilton and Burlington meet. Not only do many of the residents take part in this 2 kilometre long garage sale but people from all over come and set up their wares. Some are vendors from flea markets too. There is lots of parking on the street but you might want to get there by 8am to get a good spot. If you come from the Burlington end of the street I would drive for a few minutes to park closer to the Hamilton end of the street. Wear comfy shoes, bring some water and something to carry (or wheel) your purchases in. There is some street food available and washrooms too. (for those that might want a bit more info you can Google "Jimmy Lomax" operation Santa Claus but the info is pretty scarce) or click http://www.inform.hamilton.ca/record/HAM0870
For those of you using a GPS here is the address, 231 Beach Blvd., Hamilton, Ontario, Canada L8H 6V8
Maybe I'll see you there!

If only jewelry could talk!

2011-06-10T14:16:00.001-04:00

I was reading the recent e-newsletter from Art jewelry magazine yesterday where publisher Linda, tells a story about loving flea markets and talks about one of her great finds. That reminded me of my wonderful find a few weeks ago here in Oakville. A church very close to my home has an annual "free garage sale" Yes, you heard me correctly. Everything is FREE!! Since my husband and I were up early anyway, we decided to wander over and have a look.

I found this beautiful piece looking for a new home. As you can see in the 1st photo it is made up of a series of loops of beeds that twist slightly as they make their way around. The total length is almost 36" so it actually hangs down 17" when worn and it is about 1 1/2" across at the widest point. The photo with my hand in it is just to help give an idea of the scale.
I would love to know the history of this piece. If only jewelry could talk!!

I'm so proud to announce my new line of rubber texture sheets!!!! (almost!!)

2011-05-01T22:19:00.001-04:00

I just wanted to give you the heads up. I'll soon be launching my own line of rubber texture sheets. I have come up with 5 new designs to start with. I have MANY more ideas floating around in my head too but I decided to start with just 5. These ones are "same all over" designs. I have worked with most of these in the past in one way or another and I love the results that I achieved so that is how I chose the first 5.

Many of you are familiar with Bev's line of texture sheets "ImpressIT!" Bev has decided not to produce these any more and she has graciously let me take over some of her designs. You can see which ones I am taking over below. I have changed a few of them so that the design will decrease in size from one edge to the other. I'm hoping that I'll have some ready at the end of May. For now though Shades Of Clay is still offering any of Bev's remaining photopolymer texture sheets. (But once they're gone, they're gone!)

New PolymerCAFE issue

2011-05-01T15:26:00.000-04:00

I guess that I forgot to mention it here but the latest issue of PolymerCAFE is out on the newstands now.
The magazine had a "Steampunk" challenge and the winners were published in this issue.

The editor thought that it would be a good idea to include a tutorial for some steampunk jewelry in the same issue so my article shows how to make a large pendant using a lot of "upcycled" bits and pieces.(of course it also shows yet another way to use the CaBezel Jewelry Molds. You can see 3 of them used in the piece here)

As part of this tutorial I showed how to create your own texture sheet using some ballchain, a zipper and a few other things to help you create some long thin lines of texture. These lines were then used to wrap around the edge of a clay circle to help create the illusion of an old timepiece or watch.

I have been using molds like these for over 2 years now . I really like the way these thin lines finish off edges. Here is where the big news comes in. I have decided to make this idea into a rubber texture and make them available for purchase. I was hoping that it would be available when the magazine was released but after a few delays it just wasn't possible. I will tell you more about my new line of rubber textures in another post. I'm hoping that my first group of textures (this one too) will be available by the end of May.

Rocky path results

2011-04-27T20:51:00.000-04:00

Well, here are the results from the Rocky Path tutorial that I purchased. I managed to make a few dozen pendants. (i even spliced my small bits together 'cause i didn't want to waste any of the yummy patterned clay) Some are strung on ribbon and/or cord while others are hung from cables or chains. I'm hoping to finally use the Etsy account that I signed up for soooo long ago. You can click this link to check up on my progress to see if I actually mange to list any on Etsy

Crackle technique with Inka-Gold

2011-04-26T21:04:00.000-04:00

I received my 2nd order of Inka-Gold paints. The colors are amazing. Unfortunately i haven't had a chance to even unscrew the lids to look at them. That also means that haven't has a chance to work with them to test to see how permanent they are. I did however email Trish (of poly clay play where I ordered the paints) and here is what she said Viva Decor states that it is permanent after 24 hours. I would believe that but, since I like to add just a little shine I almost always use PYM II Spray Varnish
Of course it's always best to do a bit of your own testing as there are always so many variables but Trish's email sounds pretty promising. I have yet to experiment with the Preserve Your Memories II spray varnish but I will get a can and try it out. Trish does sell the product however for those of you that prefer to buy in Canada it can also be purchased online here
I did however manage to try the "crackling" technique at the request of one of my guild mates and I am happy to report that it was successful. For those of you that may not be familiar with this technique, it is simply applying paint, letting it dry and then stretching the clay by running it the the pasta machine and therefore causing the paint to break apart. Some paints actually stretch with the clay but i found that if i applied the Inka-Gold thick enough (i did 2 coats on the blue) it crackled quite nicely. (there is only 1 coat on the green side so it didn't crackle as well)

Morrisburg Gathering

2011-04-26T15:34:00.001-04:00

For those of you that aren't from around here you may not be familiar with the gathering of polymer artists in Morrisburg, ON annually. I have only had the pleasure of attending once but many of the ladies that go are severe devotees going year after year. The gathering takes place every April and women from all over will drive for hours to get there. From Thursday to Sunday several new techniques are learned and shared by all. To learn more about this wonderful annual event click here MPCG Sandy (from Simple Inspirations ) made a nice pin using the "geometrics" CaBezel mold while she was there. She didn't get to keep to pin for long but you can read about her process on her blog. Here is her pin.

Inka-Gold metallic paints

2011-04-15T21:05:00.000-04:00

If you are at all familiar with my work than you already know that I do a lot of faux silver finishing for my jewelry. I love metallics and mostly achieve this look by applying Eberhard Faber pulver to black clay.

(Sometimes I use Pearlex powders ) However there is a drawback to using the powders because you have to decide on your desired metallic before you bake. Otherwise the powder won't adhere properly. Then of course you need to apply some kind of protective finish (Future floor polish or Flecto Varathane) Since silver is my fav, this method isn't always a problem, and typically, at any given time i will have several baked bezels to choose from on my work table. Some are black some are gold or copper but most are silver. Lately

though, I seem to be coming up with some new ideas for bracelets or necklaces where several of the same metallic finish are required as opposed to ideas for pendants where just 1 bezel will do. This means stopping my idea in it's tracks to make more bezels!!

Now though, with these paints from Viva Decor i can get around that because this paint can be applied after the baking.

With my latest project I needed figure out a way to cover up the unfinished sides because all of these pendants were cut free hand and not going to be set into Bezels!! What no bezels!??? (of course i couldn't completely disregard them. They are just used more decoratively this time)

These paints are actually quite dry and can be applied using your finger, a paint brush or even a make-up sponge. The image (below) with the green edge shows how just one application of paint almost perfectly covers up an edge that is actually half white and half black. Once dry the paint can be polished with a soft cloth to produce a nice sheen. I'm not sure how permanent the paint is because since I was applying liquid clay to the top I put it on the sides as well.

I'll need to experiment more to find out. I love these paints and I've already placed another order for More yummy colours. I would suggest buying the trial sizes. They'll last for a while and you can order more that way! The paints are available here at Poly Clay Play. This was my first time ordering from Trish and I was extremely happy with the experience. Trish will go our of her way to make sure that you are happy with your order (thanks Trish) I can't wait to get my new colours. I've already come up with another way to use these fabulous paints and I'm planning to write up a PDF tutorial for it. (don't hold your breath though, it may be a while)

Still playing with Rocky Path tutorial

2011-03-21T10:31:00.000-04:00

Well here are 2 more examples of what I've used the tutorial for. And I have another 10 or so ready to be strung. I find that the finishing is the part that can be so time consuming. Trying to decide if the pendant needs a chain or a cord or maybe some beads. In my perfect world I would just get it to the point where i had the pendants finished with some suggestions on the direction the end product should go and then i would hand it over to someone that could finish them for me!! Someone with the knowledge and skill with wire and beads and string!! Anyone want to volunteer?

"Rocky Path" A wonderful tutorial

2011-03-12T23:52:00.002-05:00

I recently purchased my first online tutorial. I usually consider myself to be quite selective when it comes to learning new techniques with clay but it wasn't the first time that this tutorial by Christi Uliczny had tempted me. I first saw it mentioned on Polymer Clay Daily and although I have played with the alcohol ink and leaf combo before my results remained flat compared to what I saw in Christi's work.. Easily distracted I left the page and forgot all about it until PCD mentioned how Tricia Dewey had used that very same tutorial and manipulated it to come up with some pretty spectacular beads of her own.

This above image is one that first caught my eye for the "Rocky Path" tutorial. It is a great tutorial. Short and to the point and in it there were a few secrets revealed for getting some wonderful results. Well worth the $7.00 dollars that I paid.
This story has a bit of a twist to it. Shortly after I had received the tut in my inbox I received a "thank you for purchasing" note from Christi. Here's the twist, in her email she also mentioned that she had just ordered one of my CaBezel molds! It's a small world out there. I'll be watching to see what she does with them!

Here are a few things that I've done with the tut so far. I've been having so much fun with it that I've made several things. The problem is that i just keep coming up with new combinations and I can never seem to actually finish any! My creative muse just loves this technique! My goal is to finish the pieces and list them on ETSY!
This one features a shape from "3 Fab Focals" I was after an ancient type of look here.

For this one the 2 shapes are from "Lemon-Egg"

I am trying desperately to get away from making everything look like "silver". I\m not sure why I am so drawn to it. Let's see if i ever actually finish the pieces shown below! (the large one in the centre uses Christi's technique.)

The new issue of Poymer Clay is now available

2011-02-25T11:34:00.000-05:00

If you are looking for something new to do with your CaBezels you'll find a tutorial inside the new issue of PolymerCAFE. I show how to add a textured frame beyond the bezel.

You've seen these before on my blog but they are another example of the technique.

Photo taken by Dean Archer

My two newest designs are finally here !!!

2011-02-21T14:28:00.000-05:00

My two newest designs are finally here and available at Shades Of Clay.

The first new mold is called 3 Fab Focals. Pretty self explanatory I think. These shapes look great on their own as a focal point or combine them with smaller beads as well. If you are in to bead embroidery these cabochons would be a great jumping off point for you. (sighhhh, i wish I knew how to do that.)

I gave this bezel a bit of texture and then applied some silver pulver.

The other mold is called Frame It!
It was designed for creating tile bracelets just like Get To The Point! I knew that once I came up with a good design for a bracelet all I had to do was repeat it several times in a perfectly straight row. This means that the mold only has to be used twice to produced enough tiles (cabochons and bezels) to make a bracelet and because each tile is placed so close together it means less cutting too, therefore saving time and effort!

I used it here as a focal point in one of my grommet- bead collars.

These earrings were made without the bezel. So smooth and shiny.

I haven't had a chance to make a tile bracelet yet so this is as close as it gets for now. You can picture how a whole bracelet might look. I do have lots of ideas. One of my ideas is to use these frames to record some memories from our recent vacation in the Mayan Riviera. I have a sister out in B.C. who loves to get my jewelry (does she have a choice??) so maybe I could choose a great scenic shot and turn it into a pendant for her. Or maybe transfer a picture of one her dogs onto the cab. She's crazy about her dogs!

I have also been thinking that this would be a great way to do a swap at a guild meeting or retreat. Let's say the workshop is on caning. We know that everyone will use different colours and the results will be magical. A swap is often done. So why not have everyone make a specified number of Frame It! CaBezels and swap the finished product. I know that i would love a bracelet or necklace where I could display other artist's work.

This mold might also be a great way to display all of those favourite techniques that we learn over time. How many workshops have you attended to learn something new? How many of those techniques have you actually displayed in a finished piece? (I'm guilty too) I may just go and bake myself a series of Frame It! bezels. That way when I learn my next new technique or make my next cane I can immediately make a cabochon for one of my baked bezels and when I have enough different techniques gathered I'll turn them into a bracelet!!!

Frame It

2011-02-15T21:18:00.000-05:00

Here is a preview of the next CJM to be released soon. It's called Frame It and it works along the same lines as Get To The Point! does. It should be available soon at Shadesofclay. I'll tell you more when it about it when it is.

Yummy! A different take on the CJM's

2011-02-15T20:57:00.001-05:00

I just love seeing what others are doing with the CJM's! This pic was sent to me by Sylvia Rollins and I just love her interpretation of the cabezels. She has just started her own blog too.
You can take a look here.

Coming soon!

2011-02-11T12:10:00.000-05:00

Here is a peek at one of the new shapes soon to be released! This is part of "3 Fab Focals" I'll let you know when the are available at Shades of Clay

If you are new to the CJM's you may find the instructions in this PDF helpful

2011-01-24T21:38:00.008-05:00

Holy Cow! Where has January gone?

2011-01-22T22:55:00.000-05:00

I don't know about you, but I'm having a difficult time believing that January is almost over! It seems like mere days ago that my family and I returned from a fabulous trip in the Riviera Maya!
The first image was taken from the beach front at the resort. The next photo is of the ruins of Tulum. We had a wonderful time.The food was amazing (it always is when someone else cooks it !) and the people were even better.
I found myself in vacation mode for at least a week after our return but then it was back to work as usual. Funny how when you're away there's always more than enough time for everything, but once you return home there's never enough time to get everything done. I spent the first week of the new year just cleaning out my closets and getting rid of things that I haven't used in ages. It seemed that I just needed to purge and un-clutter my space before I could be creative. I re-decorated my computer room. I love the look of white painted furniture so that is what I finally have in there now. Everything feels so much calmer now. I had been avoiding my computer before but now I enjoy being in that space so I'm getting so much more accomplished now. I finished one article for Polymer CAFE, (It will be in the April issue so I'll tell you more about it when the date gets closer.) and I'm already working on another one. I may even be done before the actual deadline!!
I'm not big on New Year's resolutions so the only one I made is to keep my work areas free of clutter. I want to put things away as soon as I'm done working with them. So far so good. Oh, I guess there is one more resolution that I have made. I just haven't spoken it out loud yet. It is to be kinder and gentler to myself. I'm finally starting to realize that I can't possibly do everything myself. I'm a bit of a control freak when it comes to doing most things, but now I realize that I'm the one that loses if I don't delegate. I need to let go of some of the control. Things might not get done exactly the way I'd like them to be but that's OK (at least that's' what I'm' telling myself) Yep, I'm finally realizing that if I spend so much damn time doing the things that just NEED to be done that there's not enough time for me to just enjoy. Yep, this year I am go to try to enjoy the art of doing less.
I really do enjoy simple things. Like watching the flames in our fireplace and I enjoy lighting candles, curling up and reading a good book. This year, I will feel less guilt about the "nothing" when I can actually accomplish the "nothing" if even for a moment. Enjoy your life and all the little things that come with it. So many of the simple things go unnoticed as we rush through our days to get to the destinations. Enjoy the route that you take each day to get there. I know that I'm going to try. Ahhhhh, gentle is good.......

2011-01-22T15:28:00.000-05:00

2011-01-22T15:27:00.000-05:00

2011-01-22T15:26:00.000-05:00

Tim Burton: Just an FYI for all of you fellow Burton fans

2010-11-24T18:45:00.002-05:00

It looks like Toronto will be blessed with a huge exhibit of Burton's work. It starts this Friday! Tim Burton - Home

Here it is, the tutorial for making a pendant using the "Mini" CJM's

2010-11-20T13:19:00.000-05:00

Papagodesigns

2010-10-24T21:15:00.000-04:00

I found this website after reading some wonderful, kind comments that this woman left on a polymer clay forum. I have never met her or even heard of her or her work before, but after seeing the kindness and calmness that she had exude in her words, I was curious and just wanted to find out more about her. She comes from Africa originally but now lives and creates her art in Australia and her name is Sabine Spiesser. She is a digital artist that alters, layers and merges several different images together. Her use of images is captivating and her use of color is brilliant. She is one of my new favs to watch for sure. Here are a few examples of her work.

SSabiSpending time with camera in hand or gathering natural materials such as leaves, twigs, bark, feathers shells and ephemera for scanning is part of the meditative as well as immensely relaxing process of creating digital art. The artist wanders with her camera through gardens, parks, the wilderness and urban places looking for the unusual and for detail often missed, such as intricate textures . She is a keen gardener and finds much inspirational material in her own suburban garden.neSabine Spiesser abine Spiesser

Sunday inspiration

2010-10-24T12:32:00.000-04:00

I just came back from walking my dog and as usual I didn't come home empty handed. Isn't it funny how being an artist will cause you to look at all things differently? Most of my good friends are the creative type, my husband on the other hand was born of a different mould. We can be looking at the exact same thing and see it in totally different ways.
Anyway.....here is pic of what caught my eye today. The beautiful green moss on the deep brown bark is working it's magic on me already. I'll post what I create from this if it's worth while.
This kind of inspiration may not always result in a beautiful end product. In these cases it's the process of creativity alone that has all of the magic!
I hope you get inspired by something today. Enjoy!

Tute for the "Mini" CaBezels

2010-10-23T16:47:00.000-04:00

Well the actual "tute" isn't quite done but all the photos are. I have made 3 different examples of this type of pendant. With any luck I should have the slide show done some time in the next few days. I'll post it here.

Tribal earrings

2010-10-19T21:38:00.000-04:00

I made these earrings to go with a necklace that I designed for an upcoming magazine article. Since the article focuses just on the way I created the beads for the necklace I figured it was safe to post this pic. You'll have to wait for the magazine to be published before I can post a pic of the necklace though.
I covered a pair of clip-on jewelry findings with clay and then attached them to the dangle with an eye pin that was secured inside 2 layers of clay on the bezel. The design was made with a texture sheet and after baking I added turquoise paint to the entire area and then rubbed it off of the surface area.

More work by Irene

2010-10-13T17:46:00.000-04:00

Here are a few more great examples of what Irene has made with the CaBezels.

Curly Girl Designs by Irene

2010-10-11T19:46:00.000-04:00

I allowed myself to get distracted from my work today and I came across this necklace on Etsy. It looked familiar so I asked the seller Irene if she had used the CaBezel molds for it and sure enough she did! It's great to see how others use them.

I am already in the process of working on a tutorial using the "Mini" CJM's and hopefully I'll have it ready next week some time. In the meantime, you can take a look at Irene's work. She does amazing things with transfers and resin too.

2010-10-11T14:14:00.002-04:00

I started to look around and I found these ones on shades of clay

Carolyn of 2goodclaymates has been busy again

2010-10-11T13:54:00.000-04:00

Carolyn recently ordered some new "clay toys" from Shades Of Clay. She made these great necklaces with her new CJM's. I think they're great. I've asked her where she purchased those interesting bails. I'll let you know when I find out.

Canadian Beading magazine

2010-10-03T16:33:00.000-04:00

The latest issue of Canadian Beading.ca is out on the newsstands. It contains lots of great articles and ideas for newbies and beyond. My article for making a polymer clay necklace is in this issue. All of the suppliers and sponsors are Canadian which is kind of nice for a change.

They're heeere !!!!

2010-09-25T16:34:00.001-04:00

They're finally here! After weeks of preparation 2 new designs are available . "Get to the Point" and "Lemon-Egg"
Visit Shades of Clay for all the details.

Be Happy

2010-09-07T18:12:00.000-04:00

OK, I realize that there are times when we can't always be happy, but during those times if we can just remember to be grateful for the things that we do have that alone can make us smile. It can ease some of that everyday stress and remind just how great things are. Try it. Being grateful can do wonders!

A Secret Scrolls message from Rhonda Byrne
Creator of The Secret and The Power

From The Secret Daily Teachings Begin your day by feeling grateful. Be grateful for the bed you just slept in, the roof over your head, the carpet or floor under your feet, the running water, the soap, your shower, your toothbrush, your clothes, your shoes, the refrigerator that keeps your food cold, the car that you drive, your job, your friends. Be grateful for the stores that make it so easy to buy the things you need, the restaurants, the utilities, services, and electrical appliances that make your life effortless. Be grateful for the magazines and the books that you read. Be grateful for the chair that you sit on, and the pavement that you walk on. Be grateful for the weather, the sun, the sky, the birds, the trees, the grass, the rain, and the flowers.

Thank you, thank you, thank you!

May the joy be with you,

Rhonda Byrne
The Secret and The Power... bringing joy to billions

Get To The Point !

2010-08-26T22:29:00.000-04:00

If you are a fan of making tile bracelets then I think you'll like this new design.

You will no longer have to make each tile one at a time. With this new CaBezel mold you can make five at a time, then lift up the mold place it back down and make 5 more. That's 10. Enough to make a bracelet to fit most wrists. It is so quick and easy now!
Each rounded triangle tile will be 1 3/4" long and 3/4" across at the widest part.
You can then choose to cut each triangle apart or leave them together. For the bracelet on the left I kept all 5 triangles together. I made straight cuts across the top and bottom without cutting around all of the points. For the bracelet on the right I chose to cut each triangle apart.
My method for both bracelets was foil topped with alcohol inks. Both bracelets are strung together with clear elastic.
This new design should be available for purchase at Shades of Clay in about 2 weeks.

New manufacturer found for the CaBezel Jewellery Molds!

2010-08-22T11:50:00.003-04:00

I am very pleased to announce that after more than 2 months of searching I have finally found a great little company to manufacture the CaBezels for me.
I have spoken to several different companies, tried out various types of photo polymer, (found out that not all of them are compatible with polymer clay) and in the end (with the help of Bev), learned a whole new language where photopolymer is concerned. So look for a few new designs soon at www.shadesofclay.com

This is a peek into some of the research that I've been doing.

Here's a sneak peek of just a few of the new bezel shapes.

This tile bracelet was made using "Get to the Point"

This necklace was made using "Lemon-Egg"

The examples below are also using the new "Lemon-Egg" CaBezel molds and some white acrylic paint.

Smelling the roses

2010-07-26T21:59:00.000-04:00

I have been taking a little time to smell the roses this summer and also kick back and enjoy this beautiful weather before it disappears! But don't worry, I have also been working hard to find a manufacturer for the CaBezels. I've looked high and low. Looked in Canada and in the United States. For a short period of time I even considered going with rubber instead of polymer but then I gave my head a shake and decided that the integrity of the molds would be compromised. I just couldn't settle for a lesser product in the end. The price of photopolymer has gone up substantially since my last bulk order but I am trying to negotiate a price with the manufacturer that will keep the cost reasonable for you, my customers. I do have some new designs ready to launch as soon as I get this pesky little manufacturing thing settled!

I also want to to thank all of you that took the time to answer my survey questions. I read every single email and took notes about what matters to you.
So "Thank You" your efforts didn't go unnoticed.

I'm in a pickle and looking for your opinion about the CaBezel Jewellery Molds

2010-06-06T13:43:00.005-04:00

A little while ago I finished some new designs for the CaBezel Jewellery Molds. I'm really happy with them and I think that you polymer artists will be too. Here's where my problem lies. I need to find a new manufacturer to produce them for me so I have been doing a lot of research. As it turns out the labour costs, combined with the already expensive costs of photopolymer are sending the costs through the roof ! You see, Bev and I weren't really charging for our own labour and now that we have to pay someone else to do it they aren't willing to be as kind (bummer). Shipping and cutting will also be an added cost but I am adament about keeping production in Canada so that means no added border fees.

Now here is where I'm hoping to get some feed back from those of you that have used the CaBezels.
I realize that they may have already seemed a bit pricey to some because you couldn't possibly know the cost of the materials but I would like to know the following if you are willing to share:

#1 Would you be willing to pay a bit more to keep the molds in the transparent photopolymer? (at this point it looks like I may need to charge $25.00 - $30.00 max to make any profit at all.
#2 If you would be willing to pay more how much is too much?

#3 How important is it to you that I keep the product transparent? I could possibly keep the costs the same as they are now if I switch to a more common opaque material.

#4 Is keeping the price the same as it is now ($19.99) the most important thing to you?

Please email me privately. It's easier than logging on and leaving a comment on my blog plus it will take uptoo much room that way. worlowski@sympatico.ca If you can please put survey in as the subject line.

I hope everyone realizes that it is not my intention to gouge anyone here. My intent is to provide a well made product with great customer service that isn't produced in China. I take a lot of pride in this product.

I really appreciate any feedback that you are willing to give.
If I get enough responses I will post the results on my blog and I will keep you posted on the progress of the CaBezels and the new designs.

Hey...If anyone is familiar with the photopolymer industry and you know of a manufacturer/supplier that I may have over-looked please share that with me as well. Email me worlowski@sympatico.ca

Thanks so much for your input.

My Grandfather the Shoemaker

2010-06-06T12:25:00.002-04:00

My grandfather passed away many years ago when I was about 10 yrs old. He was born in 1899, something I didn't know until recently. Wow! I actually knew someone that was born in the 1800's! That strikes me as being a bit bizarre and phenomenal too!

He immigrated from Vranovske Dlhe, Slovakia and set up shop as a shoemaker in Peterborough Ontario. The house along with the garage that housed his workshop have been passed down to my cousin now and even though it has been 35 years since my grandfather died, only now is it being cleared out completely. One of my recent visits to Peterborough turned out to be a most serendipitous one. I had just finished putting away my latest jewellery made from grommets after showing my mom and sister. That's when my cousin walked in to announce that he would be soon cleaning out the workshop to make some room for his own things. He mentioned that amongst some old machinery there still lingered some supplies like thick shoe leather and grommets and rivets! Grommets? My ears perked up and before you could blink I was there going through dusty old drawers and jars full of grommets. There were hundreds of them. What a find. I haven't played with them yet but I can't wait to get my hands on them to make more Grommet Jewellery!!!

This is a tool that is about 10 ft long in total so i couldn't get it all in the picture. It has many different stations along it's lentgh. Some parts are for buffing, other for sanding and it attached to a vacuum that took all of the dust away. I couldn't help but think that a much smaller version of this would be perfect for polymer clay artists.

This poor old Singer has seen better days.

Some great tips from 2goodclaymates

2010-05-26T21:26:00.001-04:00

It looks like Carolyn has been busy with the CaBezels again. She's getting some beautiful results and even sharing tips on what works for her. It's great for me to get someone else's perspective !

2goodclaymates

2010-05-15T22:17:00.000-04:00

Carolyn from 2goodclaymates has been having some fun using her new CaBezel molds. She has a great way of finishing off the back of her jewellery too. Take a look here.

Feed Your Soul

2010-04-30T22:18:00.000-04:00

I stumbled upon this fabulous site that has a collection of free downloadable art. Lots of generous artists have donated for our pleasure. I scrolled and scrolled and prayed that there was a never-ending supply of art to enjoy. Take a peak.

Recipe for my favourite salad dressing

2010-04-30T21:34:00.001-04:00

This has to be the best salad dressing of all time. (In my books it is) I found this recipe about 2 years and I still make all the time. I buy the pre-washed salad mix most of the time now (the type that comes in a large plastic boxy container) that way if I'm in a hurry I don't have to wash/spin and tear my own. Once you open the container the mixed greens expand and you'll wonder how it all fit in there. Note to polymer clay addicts: the empty containers are great for storing supplies in. They stack nicely and you can see what you have stored inside.
I originally got this recipe from Simply Recipies but I have altered it.

Honey Mustard Vinaigrette Mix all ingredients together in a glass jar, shake well
3/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tbsp honey mustard
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
salt and pepper to taste

Feta cheese
toasted walnut or pecan pieces
dried cranberries
raw sunflowers seeds are a nice addition too
The toasted nuts and dried cranberries are a must! It's these and the dressing that really make this salad sing!!!

Mixed greens
tomato
cucumber
red bell pepper
thinly sliced mushrooms
use any or all of the above or add your favourite veggies
Enjoy!! This salad goes well with anything or alone. Chicken is a nice addition too.

Manipulated

2010-04-22T21:57:00.001-04:00

The Bezel that is! This is something that never occurred to me to try before until I was trying to decide on the centerpiece for my last necklace. I had made up a few different bezel shapes using the CaBezel molds but me being the way that I am just couldn't be satisfied so I kept on playing. I covered a piece of dark purple clay (the same purple that i used for the grommets beads) with a piece of gold foil and ran it through the pasta machine (still on the thickest setting) to crackle the gold leaf a bit. Then I used the circle mold and made the bezel. I cut it out as usual and it looked good but for some reason I thought that I should stretch it a bit. It looked interesting so I gently rotated in my hands and stretched it some more. I couldn't believe that the outer edge didn't distort or get thin in places. Maybe because my clay was cool and not warm? Who knows, but I do like it and I will probably do some more manipulating in the future.
The inside was already gold because of the foil so I sprinkled some purple and rusty-orange glitter on top and then squeezed some liquid Kato on top before baking.
I did get my necklace finished last week and I'm thrilled with it. I just can't decide if I should wait to for Dean to do the photography before I post it?? He's definitely more talented than I am when it comes to photography and it helps that he has access to some lovely young necks too!!!

The Secret Scrolls

2010-04-19T20:48:00.002-04:00

A Secret Scrolls message from Rhonda Byrne
From The Secret Daily Teachings

To allow the Universe to move you in your life to happier and better things, you are going to need to look around you and appreciate the good things here and now. Seek the beautiful things and count the blessings of where you are. Dissatisfaction will not bring the happier and the better into your life. Dissatisfaction roots you to the spot where you currently are, but appreciation for what you have attracts the happier and better to you.

Remember that you are a magnet! Appreciation attracts appreciation!

May the joy be with you,

Rhonda Byrne

The Secret... bringing joy to billions

From squash to that to this???

2010-04-12T12:32:00.000-04:00

OK , this is it. There isn't any (squash) green in these beads but there is some wonderful deep violet. I'm not sure how I got here but I like it. I'll post a pic when I get the new necklace done.

From squash to this ????

2010-04-08T14:09:00.000-04:00

Well, this is what I have come up with so far after being inspired by the lovely coloured flesh of that squash. I'm not exactly sure how I got here, but I what I do know is that I'm just not feeling it. This doesn't seem to have the right flavour, not even close to the mood that I wanted to convey with my next grommet bead necklace. I think I'll just put this aside for a few more days and see what happens.

Look for a new tutorial from me in the June issue of Polymer CAFE

2010-04-03T22:29:00.000-04:00

The CaBezel Cane Pendant is my tutorial

Ring Tutorial

2010-03-31T18:46:00.000-04:00

Spring

2010-03-31T18:04:00.000-04:00

I found this lovely little surprise when I walked around in my backyard today. I didn't know I even had crocuses!

Faux Turquoise

2010-03-31T17:56:00.001-04:00

I decided to take a slight detour while working on my "squash" inspired colour palette. Something kept whispering "turquoise" in my ear until i caved and made a batch.

Colour Inspiration

2010-03-27T21:21:00.000-04:00

For the last week or so I have been trying to decide on a colour scheme for my next Grommet Tube necklace. I was pretty certain that I wanted to use translucent clay this time but I couldn't decide on colour. However, today while I was making some delicious curried squash soup I decided what the colours would be!
I ran and got my camera and put a few of the colourful peelings on my windowsil. Since I can't trust my family for long NOT to throw them away , I am off to my clay room with the peelings to see what I can do! Wish me luck.

2010-03-22T21:31:00.002-04:00

Every morning you are handed 24 golden hours. They are one of the few things in this world that you get free of charge. If you had all the money in the world, you couldn't buy an extra hour. What will you do with this priceless treasure? Remember, you must use it, as it is given only once. Once wasted you cannot get it back.

Anonymous
more famous quotes

Something a little bit different with the CaBezels

2010-03-18T19:27:00.005-04:00

I seem to be going in a whole new direction these days, even when I'm using the CaBezel molds. A little while ago Bev handed me some new molds to play with. They were just circles but sizes that I didn't have and some with really chunky frames. I started working with them and Bev's texture stamps, combining them in ways like I hadn't in the past. I also came up with a new way to make rings from Buna cord. Ill share about how I did that a little later on. Bev and I (by the way if don't already know, Bev is the one that makes the actual CaBezel molds and ImpressIT texture sheets with the photopolymer) anyway, I digress. We have decided to come out with a new series of molds, we're just trying to decide on the most exciting shapes! Hopefully it won't be too long of a wait, for now the first 3 in the series are still available exclusively on-line through Shades Of Clay. http://shadesofclay.com/index.html

What a difference !

2010-03-16T22:11:00.004-04:00

I am fortunate enough to have a really good friend that has faith in me and my creative skills. We met years ago in college when we were both studying fashion design and more than 20 years later, even though our lives have taken very different turns, we still get together to laugh and shop and stir up each other's creative juices.(and consume the odd glass of red wine). Cindy has always stood by me (often for many hours at a time during long Christmas craftshows) and thankfully kept me grounded too. Ok, enough of that. Cindy also has a very talented husband that has a passion for photography. Somehow he was easily convinced to include a few of my jewellery pieces in a photo shoot that he was doing last week end with a beautiful model. What a difference it makes when a professional takes the photos!!! Thanks Dean.

If you'd like to see more of Dean's work click here.http://deanarcherphotography.web.officelive.com/default.htm

Feeling green

2010-03-16T21:40:00.001-04:00

Look at all of these lovely shades of green. I couldn't help but notice my "green" theme when I was working the other day. Even my Matcha tea was such a beautiful shade of green. It has always been one of my favourite colours. I'll admit I am a complete sucker for anything green when I'm out shopping. If I'm having a hard time deciding what brand to purchase if it has green on the package that's the one that will likely be coming home with me. Turquoise is another one of my faves. I'm trying really hard to think outside of my colour box these days but as you can see I still have a long way to go.

As promised, here is the finished piece.

2010-03-16T21:25:00.001-04:00

I am quite pleased with the results. My vision when I began this piece was to create something with a "Tribal" feel and I think that I accomplished that. This is my most in-depth work yet. Normally I would have a large focal bead or two and then just thread it onto Buna cord so this is quite a departure for me and I must admit that I loved the whole experience. I can definately see more of this type of work in my future.

A new idea

2010-03-08T22:08:00.000-05:00

A while back I came up with an idea to use grommets for building beads. I don't often make beads beacause I don't do them well or consistently, atleast not until I started using grommets for the ends. I mainly made earrings using this method until recently. I saw an interesting scrap of clay on my work table and immediately I was inspired to do something with a "Tribal" feel.

I'll post the finished necklace soon.

A wonderful gift

2010-03-08T21:56:00.002-05:00

Every year we do a gift exchange between members of The Southern Ontario Polymer Clay Guild. I received my gift a little bit late but it was well worth the wait. This pendant was made by Barbara Coulatti. It is on a silk cord and it has sterling silver findings. I totally admire all of Barbara's work, her work always has an impeccable finish! I don't think Barbara has much of an on-line presence yet unfortunately but I'll let you know when and if she does get one. Thanks Barbara.

Be Grateful, Just a little reminder. Something i think we all need once in a while.

2010-03-03T19:45:00.001-05:00

From The Secret Daily Teachings

Begin your day by feeling grateful. Be grateful for the bed you just slept in, the roof over your head, the carpet or floor under your feet, the running water, the soap, your shower, your toothbrush, your clothes, your shoes, the refrigerator that keeps your food cold, the car that you drive, your job, your friends. Be grateful for the stores that make it so easy to buy the things you need, the restaurants, the utilities, services, and electrical appliances that make your life effortless. Be grateful for the magazines and the books that you read. Be grateful for the chair that you sit on, and the pavement that you walk on. Be grateful for the weather, the sun, the sky, the birds, the trees, the grass, the rain, and the flowers.

Thank you, thank you, thank you!
May the joy be with you,

Rhonda Byrne
The Secret... bringing joy to billions

My most recent work

2010-03-01T14:31:00.001-05:00

Don't you just love the look of turquoise! I do, so I made some faux turquoise and then I turned it into cabochons using the CaBezels molds to help me and voila! An oversized pendant and earrings were born.

An exceptional photo exhibit

2010-03-01T13:24:00.001-05:00

I found this on DailyWorth http://dailyworth.com/

Women's Worth, Worldwide - A Photo Exhibit

in PROFILES | by MP Dunleavey | Feb 19th, 2010

You're not the only one with money on her mind. The International Museum for Women in San Francisco is now hosting an online exhibit called Economica. It sheds light on women's economic standing around the globe.

Here's a selection from the exhibit:

Women's Wealth
Arab women are changing the face of business leadership in the Middle East. (more)

Make your own texture tool

2010-02-15T13:11:00.001-05:00

This isn't my idea. I wish I knew who to give the proper credit to. One of my fellow guild members (Janice V) was using her nifty tool and she told us how to make it,the next month another member (Barb B) brought in a little bag for each of us filled with everything we needed to make our own so I went home and did just that.
It's quite simple to make. I guess you could make it any shape you wanted to but this shape is easy to hang on to.
Grab some scrap clay, roll it into your preferred shape and then simply roll it in a pile of different sized/shaped salts,sugars,sprinkles or even little beads. Bake and voila! An instant texture tool.

Kato clay ring on Flickr - Photo Sharing!

2010-02-03T15:54:00.000-05:00

Kato clay ring on Flickr - Photo Sharing!

size of oval rings on Flickr - Photo Sharing!

2010-02-03T15:53:00.000-05:00

size of oval rings on Flickr - Photo Sharing!

Judy Belcher cane ring on Flickr - Photo Sharing!

2010-02-03T15:45:00.000-05:00

Judy Belcher cane ring on Flickr - Photo Sharing!

I stumbled across one of the pics that I wanted to upload thru Flickr so here it is (Blogger still isn't letting me upload any images the usual way.)

Rings

2010-01-31T09:20:00.001-05:00

Deborah Groom recently did a demo at a clay retreat in Victoria B.C. She showed them how to make rings using the CaBezel molds and then she graciously sent me some images of the rings that they made.
I'll add the pics when Blogger lets me!

I finally listed a few items on Etsy

2009-11-28T10:48:00.002-05:00

2009-11-19T13:16:00.000-05:00

"google-site-verification: googled899c18ee326407a.html"

Christmas Marketplace

2009-11-05T08:44:00.001-05:00

I've been busy getting ready for the annual Christmas Marketplace craftshow. It takes place the first Saturday in November at Iroquois Ridge High School in Oakville. It's a great show. Doors open to the public @ 10:00 and there is always a line up waiting to get in.

I am hoping to do a new tutorial soon on using the CaBezels Jewellery Molds. Any suggestions? I can't believe I'm still managing to come up with new ways to use them!!