Getting Wired with Polymer

We often create beautiful polymer clay pendants and don’t think through how it is going to be worn. So, we reach for a commercial chain and call it a day. I think not!! If you have taken the time on a special piece, let’s not miss an opportunity to continue the design or make a statement by adding a bespoke chain. It doesn’t have to be complicated.  And extending the look with a custom chain can elevate the project as a whole.

This class focuses on making chains using simple links and some creative cold connections.  I will cover some of the basics when working with wire (work hardening, straightening, and whether to add a patina and when).  My approach is to use simple elements that can be varied to adapt between necklaces, earring, bracelets and even brooches.  Then the fun begins exploring shapes, scale, and the rhythm of patterns in both the wire and polymer clay.  The polymer techniques we will be playing with are stripes (flat veneers, canes and extruded). They are fun, fast and bold – using bright colors to make each piece sing!

Each day we will create a sampling of components that can then be combined to make a necklace, earrings and chains.  You will leave this class with the skills to create custom findings and chain along with loads of design possibilities. 

Lynn has combined two of her workshops (Links and Bespoke Chains for Beginners) to create this special class for CJS. Join us for this amazing three day class(July 19-21,2024). We will cover most of the material in class, but not all. However, you will receive digital copies of the full instructions from both of these classes to view at your leisure.