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Working Outside the Box: Polymer Purses in Unusual Shapes
The flexibility and strength of polymer clay enables us to make containers in any shape we wish. Once baked, it is durable enough to withstand handling and can even be used in functional pieces! In this 2-day workshop, Kathleen will discuss shape and design principles that students will be able to apply to their own designs to create a concept for an unusually shaped purse made out of polymer clay. Attention will also be paid to tool construction, as Kathleen will demonstrate how to create a carving tool using scrap polymer clay and a small blade. She will lead students through making an interior mold, an outer container with an inside rim, and finish with a cord. Students design their own shapes, colors, and embellishments. This workshop is best for students who know how to make Skinner blend and simple canes. All Premo clay will be generously provided by Polyform Products.
Meet the instructor
Ceramic artist Kathleen Dustin, M.F.A., has been working with polymer clay since the early 1980s, developing many of her own techniques because it was a material with no history as a fine art or fine craft medium. She is a member and juror of the League of New Hampshire Craftsmen, the oldest professional craft organization in the United States, and has been a juror for numerous national shows. Kathleen maintains a busy juried show schedule throughout the year and teaches workshops around North America and in Europe.
Materials & Tools
Premo clay will be provided by Polyform Products. Kathleen will provide a small v-shaped Speedball carving blade.
- Each student must bring their own scrap clay, approximately 1 lb of any brand conditioned into one piece.
- Pasta machine, work surface, tools you already use including slicing blade, acrylic roller, pin tool, bone folder, and #11 exacto knife. You may use a pasta machine motor if you want.
- Aluminum foil – small roll, 25 ft., cheap brands.
- Clean large scrub brush for texture
- Cyanoacrylate glue – both gel and liquid types (I use Loctite brand because I like the applicators)
- 2 sanding block sponges with fine and medium sides (used for drywall sanding from any home-improvement store)
- Small (#1,2, or 3) art/craft paint brush
- Small bottle of TLS, Liquid Fimo, or Genesis Heat Set Glazing Gel. (Not Liquid Kato because it bakes at a different temp.)