Polymer Clay Beads

When I was in John Lewis the other day, I came across a FIMO bead roller machine. Of course, I had to buy it and when I got back from my shopping spree had a go at making some beads. I used Sculpey clay as my base and also tried some Claydium (air or oven bake). Once I had made them I brushed them with a few different Moonglow mica powders before I baked them (15 minutes at 130C) - not forgetting to put a hole through with a wooden cocktail stick before doing so !

These are my first attempts and I must admit it's a bit addictive when you get going. I will be doing more I think after this trial so watch this space !

Pin It

'Man in The Mirror' Decorated Mirror

Only called 'Man in the Mirror' because I am reflected, complete with camera in the mirror on this shot of a decorated mirror I made today at a class at Paddy's Stamping Place in Prestwich - Manchester.

Our host and very talented crafter was Neet Hickson, who was very patient and an excellent tutor during the all-day session.

The base frame was from Ikea (Malmo Mirror) and we first removed the mirror and then covered the raw pine with black acrylic or claybord ink using cut'n'dry foam.

We the used Makins air dry clay to produce the tiles which were stamped into with a host of stamps and then covered with mica powders applied sparingly with a brush. The resultant pieces were adhered to produce the all-over design, and allowed to dry before replacing the mirror. I used a few black clay base pieces but mainly blue for the rest. Each piece was rolled out by hand with a small roller and spacers so we didn't use a pasta machine either.

I always find shiny things difficult to photograph and hope the close-ups show enough detail. I love the finish as I always love blue themes anyway. I think the bit of green adds interest too !

Had a fantastic day and really achieved a lot thanks to Paddy and Neet who are both stars !! All materials except the mirror are available at Paddy's too !

Hope you like it :-)

Pin It