My Polymer Clay Work

Nothing beats the anticipation and excitement of sitting down at my clay table. Sometimes I have a clear idea of what I will create, other times I just go with the flow but always, I get immersed in the realm of creation that polymer clay provides. The bonus is the end result - wearable art jewellery and accessories that really make a statement!!

Kato Polyclay is my polymer clay of choice as it's a firmer clay that holds small details well and cures to a very durable end product, and it's easy to work with in the hot Brisbane summer climate!

I start by using my pasta machine (clay dedicated!!) to condition my clay, mix the custom colours for each project and sheet the clay. I really prefer mixing my own colours as it gives me more creative control over the beads and jewellery I make and adds to the uniqueness of each piece. I mould, pinch, roll, extrude, cane and cut the clay (sounds a bit mean if taken out of context!) into the shapes I want and when it's ready to be cured, I bake it in a conventional oven. Once baked and cooled, the clay is hard and the colours, patterns and forms are set. I then sand the piece with three grits of wet/dry sandpaper and polish using a soft cloth to bring out the natural shine. When I want a little added shine I apply a coat of varnish.

I have always enjoyed the marriage between bead work and wire and I often add in my own wire worked components to finish my jewellery, including handmade wire clasps and embellishments. This gives many of my pieces that added unique flavour. Due to my process and the nature of polymer clay canes, most of my pieces are one-offs and even I could not repeat them exactly if I tried!

Inishkea

My beautiful nana was born on an island called Inishkea North off the coast of the Mullet peninsula in County Mayo, Ireland. I have researched the history of these islands and they and their story hold a very special place in my heart. You can read more about this on my blog: inishkea.blogspot.com/2011/11/thin-places.html