I spent many days designing my Perky’s Paw charm. I should have kept better track, but I’d say I made 40-50 models – possibly more! At first I was making them out of silver clay, which was getting kind of pricey.
Then, Judi Weers, a kind soul from a metal clay group* I belong to, suggested I try a common polymer clay (PC) technique. First, a model is made from PC. The model is then used to imprint another piece of PC to make a stamp. The stamp is then pressed into the metal clay, leaving the imprint of the original model. In this particular instance, the polymer clay molds did not give me the detail I needed with the 1/16th” letters. But using the PC in making models and molds was a helpful exercise and I have great plans for it in the future with projects that don’t include lettering. Thanks Judi! I’m sure you will find Judi’s web site as interesting as I did – her jewelry is fabulous – and I really enjoyed seeing how she decorated her PT Cruiser!
Model of Perky's Paw charm in polymer clay
In working with PC for the first time, I drew on the experience of my dear friend Loretta, who makes beautiful jewelry out of PC. I loved these whimsical pear earrings she made for a family get-together. But I digress! Loretta talked me through the nuances of the conditioning and baking processes and clued me in to “tricks of the trade” – thanks Loretta! She will be opening a boutique on etsy soon – be sure you bookmark and stop by – she will be featuring her polymer clay creations, as well as her beautiful knit purses.
I am so lucky to have such talented and sharing artist friends like Judi and Loretta!
*MetalClay is a moderated group; if you have a genuine interest in metal clay, you may request membership.