With all the mediums available for crafting why did you choose Polymer clay?
I loved the clay sculpting I did in high school, but couldn't afford my own kiln. When I discovered they made a clay you could bake in your home oven, I knew that was the product for me. Plus I just love all the colors available, and the ability to mix any color I could imagine. Anything is possible with polymer clay.
How did you learn to use polymer clay? Internet, experimenting, books, classes.....
I learned the basics of sculpting in high school, then truly refined my skills with as many clay books as I could get my hands on. There was plenty of "what if" experimenting going on too. I'm constantly finding new things to do with polymer clay, new techniques and styles of sculpture and jewelry making.
What is your favorite tool to work with?
I'm really into texture just lately, and I've got a wide assortment of texture plates and tools for adding texture to the clay. Of course my own hands are my number one tool. There's something instinctive about sculpting. Sometimes I just let my hands coax the desired shape out of the clay. I have tons of different tools though, with my various knitting needles being used quite often.
Do you like to work with any mediums other than polymer clay?
Have you been in my shop lately? LOL! I do all sorts of crafts, including knitting, doll making (fabric dolls and art dolls), making stuffed animals, making mixed media jewelry, and sewing and knitting catnip toys. I enjoy learning new creative skills, and often incorporate several mediums into a single piece.
What is your favorite polymer clay technique & why?
I really can't think of one technique I like best. I try my hand at many different techniques and styles.
What is your least favorite technique and why?
Canes can be difficult, and take a lot of clay. I like making them when I have a good tutorial and the right clay. I've made too many with the wrong clay, and was disappointed with the results.
What is on your "to do" or "to learn" list?
I really want to try PMC. I already have ideas for pieces to create, I just can't afford the materials to get started.
Do you mix your own colors? Why or why not?
Constantly! I am unique, my work is unique, and my colors are often unique. I love making custom colors, and it's one the things that makes the majority of my work one of a kind. I also enjoy mixing my own paint colors, and knitting with more than one color of yarn on the needle. I like color, and I like to play with it.
How do you keep your designs fresh and original?
I have many books with lots of projects, which I usually adapt to my own style. I also subscribe to Polymer Cafe, which has several different projects in each issue. I'm inspired by all the artwork I see, whether in clay or other mediums. I may see a fantasy drawing and be inspired to create a sculpture. I'm open to learning new techniques and styles, and enjoy trying new things.
What keeps you from getting into a creative rut?
I have more ideas in my head than I could create in 2 lifetimes! Creativity is the core of who I am. I have 4 file folders stuffed with ideas for sculptures, jewelry, and other clay projects, and add to that stash regularly.
What is your favorite brand of clay if you have one and why?
Premo is my favorite. It's fairly easy to condition, blends nicely, and bakes with the perfect amount of flexibility. I love the rich colors available as well. I've also used Fimo, SculpeyIII, Studio Sculpey (I like the satiny finish of this clay), and Kato. They all have their good points.
Is there anything else that you would like to add?
I just want to add that the Smooshers have been a great source of inspiration for me, and I'm proud to be a member of a guild with so many very talented members.
http://creativecrittersblog.blogspot.com
1 Smooshing Thoughts:
Thank you so much for the feature Star!
Post a Comment