Queen City Clayers

meeting this saturday

2012-01-23T14:39:00.000-05:00

Hi Y'all,

January is flying by and it's time for our 1st meeting of the year. This Saturday and 12:00, the usual place. We will be making tile bracelets with a twist. I will be showing heart tiles (just in time for Valentines).

Bring your clay kit (pasta machine, work surface, hand cleaning stuff, acrylic rod...)
Clay - any two contrasting colors. I will be using red and white
stamps and texture sheets.
ink or paint for the stamps.
Small heart shaped (or any shape you like) clay cutters. Somewhere around 1 - 1-1/2" small knitting needles or skewers
liquid polymer clay
elasti-cord
beads with holes large enough for cording

January meeting

2012-01-08T16:31:00.002-05:00

Hi Y'all,
The January 28th meeting demo will be on tile bracelets. We have done them in the past but always have fun with them. I will post a supply list soon. If anyone has somthing they want to see or do as a demo in the future please feel free to let us know.
Hope to see you all soon,
Maggie

December 10th meeting

2011-12-07T15:15:00.001-05:00

Hi Y'all,
We are having our December meeting this Saturday. It is the part 2 of the Santa/elf sculpting demo. Last time we made the armature and head. Come join us for the fun even if you missed part 1. Don't forget to bring show and tell too.
Supply list:
You can choose the costume colors. I will most likely use red, brown or green.You will need your regular clay kit (work surface, blade, acrylic rod, pasta machine, hand wipes...)I will be using premo clay and recommend it for this.2-pkgs of your chosen costume color. 1- of beige (the flesh color)1-white1- black or brown (boots and belt)Small amounts of gold or silverScrap clayLiquid polymer clay for "gluing" pieces togetherAluminum foil,batting and index cards to bake onsculpting tools if you have themextruder to make "clay hair" Or uncarded wool for a real hair look.white floral wire white floral tape -I will have some to shareOther handy things:double ended knitting needles,clean paint brushes (I find filbert tip works well) for smoothing raw clayNon-linting cloth for textureAcrylic paints and small (fine tip) brushes for eye and face detailslarge embroidery or doll needle. If you don't have one I will have some for you to use.hope to see you all there!Maggie

October meeting

2011-11-14T09:09:00.002-05:00

Hi Y'all,

Just a quick note about our October meeting. It was a busy one. I (Maggie) demonstrated part one of making an art doll Santa/elf sculpture. We learned a method of armature making. Hands, tools and white floral tape were flying. Then made faces (no not just at each other). There was a quick demo on making hands while our faces were baking. Then time was up. Next time (December 10th) we will hopefully put on the finishing touches. If you didn't make it to the last one please don't let it stop you from coming. I'm sure we can catch you up. I will re-post the supply list soon. Please feel free to add any comments.

meeting reminder

2011-10-27T12:13:00.000-04:00

Just to remind you that our next meeting will be October 29th. This is the 5th Saturday, not the 4th like usual.
We will be doing a sculpture of an elf or Santa. You can choose the costume colors. I will most likely use red, brown or green.
You will need your regular clay kit (work surface, blade, acrylic rod, pasta machine, hand wipes...)
I will be using premo clay and recommend it for this.
2-pkgs of your chosen costume color.
1- of beige (the flesh color)
1-white
1- black or brown (boots and belt)
Small amounts of gold or silver
Scrap clay
Liquid polymer clay for "gluing" pieces together

Aluminum foil,
batting and index cards to bake on
sculpting tools if you have them
extruder to make "hair" Or uncarded wool
white floral wire white floral tape -I will have some to share

Other handy things:
double ended knitting needles,
clean paint brushes (I find filbert tip works well) for smoothing raw clay
Non-linting cloth for texture
Acrylic paints and small (fine tip) brushes for eye and face details
embroidery needle

Hope to see you all there!
Maggie

October meeting and September report

2011-10-12T14:13:00.002-04:00

Hi Y'all,

At our September meeting we had 3 new people! Welcome Nancy, Mary Jo and Patty. Julie, Laurie, Cheryl and Maggie were there. Julie showed off some of her new works and a few pieces she traded for from other artist. Laurie brought her latest people sculptures. Cheryl did a great job demonstrating a method from Julie Picarello's new book. We all had fun trying it.

Please note that our next meeting will be October 29th (not the 22nd). It will be at the usual meeting place. We will be working on an elf type sculpture. This will be a 2 part demo to be continued in December if needed. I will post a supply list soon.
We will not be meeting in November because of Thanksgiving.
We will be meeting the 2nd Saturday (the 10th) in December. There won't be a scheduling conflict with the BRPCG meeting because they do not meet in December.

24th September Meeting @12noon

2011-09-19T22:07:00.003-04:00

Hello everyone,
It's that time again. We have decided on working on techniques from Julie Picarello new book called Patterns in Polymer. Here is her Flickr site: www.Flickr.com/photos/Julie_Picarello
You can view her wonder art.

Supply List:
Basic Polymer Clay kit (surface to work on, Tile or glass, pasta machine, blade, roller, etc)
*"Conditioned" polymer clay Premo or Kato in 3 or 4 colors that compliment each other and contrast
*"Conditioned" ecru, translucent & pearl clay
** (we do not want to spend the whole class just conditioning clay so please have this step done prior to meeting)
- bring items like circle cutter, wavy blade, etc. things to imprint (poke, press) into the clay to make the design
That is about all I can think of at the moment for supplies. But of course if in doubt bring the item along, at least you'll have it if you need it! : )
Look forward to seeing everyone, if you need directions please e-mail and we'll get the information out to you pronto.
Cheryl

August meeting

2011-08-22T17:48:00.002-04:00

Our August 27th meeting is an exciting change up. We will be meeting at Linda's. She has generously offered to teach her wire wraping technique. She has some extra tools but if you have any jewelry/wire working tools please bring them. She has also offered to make some photo transfers for us on her printer. So bring pictures to copy if you would like to do that to.
Contact me if you need her address or phone number. 12:00 at Linda's.

Report on Julie's cane workshop

2011-08-22T15:27:00.004-04:00

Hi Y'all,

Well, time's fun when your having flies - er - I mean time flies when you are having fun.
The cane workshop on July 23 and 24 with Julie Eakes was a wonderful blur. Cheryl, Linda, Kathy, Bridget, Pat, Sharon, Teresa and I were lucky enough to attend. Besides being a the queen of face canes and a great teacher Julie has a wicked (good thing) sense of humour. So there was never a dull moment. She and some of the other characters there (you know who you are) would occasionally erupt into song or joke telling. Julie even renamed me sister Mary Margaret. Maybe it was because I kept calling her Teeeacherrr. In spite of all the fun and a white clay shortage that forced us to make only a 2 pound cane instead of a 4 pound one we left with some good looking canes, if I do say so myself. Thanks to Julie's generosity we also left with a cd and templates so we won't forget how we did it. I now have a much greater appreciation of all the work that goes into Julie's canes. THANK YOU Julie! We had a great time and learned somthing too.
Thanks to Cheryl and her husband all their hard work for the meeting place and lunch arrangements.

Improtant Announcement

2011-06-22T09:13:00.002-04:00

Hi Y'all,
The long awaited Julie Eakes face cane workshop in Charlotte is a go! Saturday and Sunday July 23 and 24th.
There are a limited number of seats. It is open to QCC and BRPCG members. Cost will be reasonable, depending mostly on the cost of the clay and lunch. I know it is short notice and we need to order the clay asap.
I need a firm commitment by Saturday June 25th if you want to attend the class and a deposit by July 6th . It will be held in Charlotte at our Queen City Clayers Meeting Place.

Maggie

June 25th Meeting

2011-06-21T18:29:00.002-04:00

Hello all,
What to put in a reminder the QCC Meeting is this Saturday. Seems like everyone has been pretty busy since Memorial Day. Please let me know if you plan to come and what you'd like to see Demo'd, otherwise, it looks like it will be a free for all clay day. Bring your current project.
Ok, hope to see you there,
Cheryl

updates

2011-05-09T16:30:00.003-04:00

I have failed to report on our March and April meeting. Shame on me because both were so much fun!
In March we had special guests from the BRPCG. Sharon and Bridget came all the way from Asheville. Where these two go there is always a party. Kathy very generously demoed her lath turning of polymer clay again. We all got to take a turn (no pun intended;)). Too much fun, laughing and learning for one meeting.

April was just a little quieter although our most famous member, Julie, attended. She filled us in on her travels and committed to teaching our groups a face cane workshop. Yea! Details will follow. Maggie demoed the faux brocade surface technique and made square tile bracelets with it. Cheryl had to be different and made round tiles instead. Very clever. Again, time just flew by.

Our next meeting is scheduled for the 28th which happens to be Memorial day weekend. Please let us know if you can come.

I will post the demo soon.

2011-04-14T18:25:00.005-04:00

Supply list for April 16th meeting: Regular clay kit (work surface, pasta machine, acrylic rod, clay blades...). 2 pack Black clay (you can use other colors if you like but this method really looks good on black). Faux Brocade Deep cut small design rubber stamp, Water spray bottle, metallic acrylic paint (tube type), Perfect Pearls powders. Tile bracelet quilt template plastic with grid pattern, 2 skewers or small dia. knitting needles, liquid polymer clay, stretch cord or elastic cord, beads for spacers with holes large enough for the cord to go through, index cards to bake on. Don't worry if you don't have all this stuff. We can share.

Meeting Date Change

2011-04-11T21:43:00.003-04:00

Hi Y'all, Please note we have moved the April meeting to this Saturday, April 16. Sorry for the short notice. To many of us could not come on the 23rd because it is Easter weekend. I will post the supply list asap. Maggie

February meeting report 2011

2011-03-08T11:48:00.002-05:00

Hi Y'all,

Our February meeting was great! We have a new member, Linda. She and her husband do beautiful jewelry. He cuts and polishes the stones and she wire wraps them. She has recently gotten interested in polymer clay. Welcome Linda. She brought some of her lovely pieces to show. Brenda brought one of her fabulous necklaces with a cold connected metal piece that she learned to do in a class with Kim StJean. Kathy showed us a silver pendant with a bezel that she had made in a silversmithing class. Cheryl showed us how to make cool canes using our extruders. Maggie did a quick demonstration on how to use small glass bowls as a mold of sorts for polymer clay bowls. We got busy making canes , extruders squeaking away. Some of us used our canes slice by slice applying them to the glass bowls. Some of us made sheet from our canes to drape over or even in the bowls. The result was at least one broken extruder and a bunch of unique bowls ranging from very serous elegant ones to a funny one with purple feet (complete with toes).

Our membership fees are due at the March meeting

Next meeting: Back by popular demand - Kathy will demonstrate turning polymer clay on a lath. It is such an amaizing technique. Hope you all can be there.

New Book

2011-02-27T13:26:00.005-05:00

Hi all,
Here is the website to buy Julie Eakes first book!
http://www.polkadotcreations.com/books/detail_do5365.html
Can't wait to see it!
Cheryl

Supply list for Feb Meeting

2011-02-23T19:43:00.002-05:00

Hi Y'all,

Cheryl and I (Maggie) are going to collaborate on the demo this time. We will be doing extruded canes and polymer clay bowls. The canes because they are cool and the bowls because you have to have something to use those cool canes on.

You will need your regular clay kit. (Pasta machine, work surface, clay blades, acrylic rod, wet ones or something to clean hands)
clay in at least 3 coordinating colors
Extruder
little glass clay dedicated bowls. I have several to share if you don't have them.

Like Cheryl said in the prior post: Bring your lunch, show and tell and we will see you at 12:00
Blythe location.

Meeting this Saturday

2011-02-22T19:24:00.001-05:00

Hello all, its that time again. Meeting is at the Reames Rd (Blythe Location) @ 12 Noon!
Bring your lunch and we'll start w/ the meeting then show and tell. We don't have a set Demo, but was thinking we could all bring our Extruders and work on some colors for spring. Or bring whatever project you are working on. If anyone has any ideas they want to see Demo, please let me know for future meetings.
Can't wait to see you all
Cheryl

meeting this Saturday

2011-01-27T11:48:00.002-05:00

Hi Y'all,

Our first meeting of the year is this Saturday. It's been too long! Those of us that have them should bring our pandora type beads to exchange. Can't wait to see you all. 12:00, Blythe location.

Welcome 2011!

2011-01-01T23:31:00.002-05:00

Wishing everyone a healthy, prosperous and Happy New Year!
Santa Hubby bought me the kits for the SHARK & PEELER by Dan Cormier. I am looking forward to making some new an improved skinner blends and cutting a perfect slice off my new cane!

December 2010 meeting

2010-12-09T14:17:00.002-05:00

Hi Y'all,

Saturday is our December meeting. We are having another play day. Bring projects (Christmas presents) you need to finish. Great time to get help with things you are stuck on! And as always there will be lots of laughs and good company.

12:00, Blythe location.

2010-11-18T17:30:00.002-05:00

Hi Y'all,

We will be meeting Saturday, 12:00, the Blythe location. Since the "Season" is upon us and so many of us are busier than ever we thought it would be good not have a structured demo. Bring any project you want to work on and join us. There will be the usual show and tell and good conversation. It's also a good time to come if you are stuck on something and want advice and encouragement.

Hope to see you Saturday.

November 20 meeting

2010-11-10T10:51:00.002-05:00

Maggie, you are awesome! Thanks for your willingness to do your best at hurding this group of polymer clay cats! Kind of like trying to hold a handful of jello! Count me in for the bead swap whether on Decmeber 11 or after the first of the year. I will be in Dallas, Texas during the November meeting. I will miss you guys! The fall is my busy travel time, but when I get home on the 21st I am done for the year!!! Yeah! - Laurie

November date change, Sept, Oct meeting notes

2010-11-10T08:49:00.003-05:00

Hi Y'all,

I have been so slack about posting. I should be fired! Oh well.

Please take not that we had to change the date for this months meeting to November 20th.
More info later on what we will be doing.

At our October meeting we worked on beads for our guild bead exchange bracelets. Cheryl, Laurie and Maggie all got started on making the 6 or 7 beads formed around grommets. Cheryl's working on a type using liquid PC that look just like lampwork, Maggie is trying to perfect a tiny dragon on a tube type bead and Laurie is making a classic looking black and white patterned one. Laurie also brought her great big gorgeous cane covered lizard. It was amazing!

Our September meeting (I failed to comment on) was bunches of fun too. Cheryl brought and shared her Lisa Pavelka magic glos. The results were so cool that we all ran out to buy our own.
Thanks for sharing Cheryl! Cheryl made glass looking cabochons. Kathy made really cool glass looking pieces for hair clips. Julie made several interesting layered pieces.

Our December meeting will be on the 2nd Saturday since the BRPCG doesn't have a December meeting and our regular Saturday falls on Christmas. We were going to have a party and exchange of our beads. We also discussed postponing the exchange and party until January because everyone seems to be extremely busy with plans for the holidays. It would be a kick off the new year party! Members-let us know what you think.

More info for meeting supplies

2010-10-21T09:46:00.002-04:00

Cheryl posted to our e-mail group that to make our beads for our bead swap bracelets "everyone will need to pick up their own Steel(silver color) grommets/eyelets at the local craft store. The Size is 5/32" or 3.97mm.I bought mine in the Sewing section at Hobby Lobby call Eyelet Kit by Dritz for $2.89 for 25 pieces. You will also need some gel super glue if you want to glue the two eyelets together, otherwise, it really depends on how you are going to make your beads. Either way they need to have a 5/32" center. Then you'll need your basic PC tool kit." and "We will also be putting together the details for our Christmas party and changing our meeting date for November.Ok, I think that is about it. Look forward to seeing you all on Saturday."

Meeting this Saturday

2010-10-20T20:01:00.002-04:00

Hi Y'all,

Wow! A month sure goes by fast. We should fire that secretary/president for not reporting.
We are going to have our meeting this Saturday at the Blythe location. We will be working on beads our add a bead type guild bracelet bead swap.

Supplies will be the grommets (size to follow) in silver tone
Whatever clay you need to make your special black and white beads.

Sorry I've been so slack about posting.

More details later.

See you there.
Maggie

2010-09-24T08:58:00.002-04:00

Hi Y'all,

At our last meeting we experimented with cheesecloth, gauze, alcohol inks and liquid polymer clay to make some wild bracelets. It was lots of fun. Some of us left with a new fashion statement of dyed fingertips as a bonus!

Hope you all can come to tomorrows meeting. It's going to be fun. Cheryl is going to demo the Lisa Pavelka Magic gloss. 12:00 Blythe location.

2010-08-23T08:43:00.002-04:00

Hi Y'all,

Due to a communication error regarding the meeting place the July meeting was cancelled last minute. That's the bad news.
The good news is that the August 28th meeting is to be held at the Blythe location 12:00. And we are going to do the gauze bracelet demo. Cheryl might have a bonus demo for us involving a resin technique too.

For the bracelets bring:
Your standard clay kit (work surface, blade, acrylic rod, pasta machine...)
Clay
liquid polymer clay
Cotton gauze
alcohol inks
gloves
Jewelry wire
Parchment paper
brass bracelet forms

If you have them:

Pearl ex, embossing powder, glitter
beads, cabochons or crystals for embellishments

QCC Meeting July 24

2010-07-23T10:53:00.002-04:00

Hi y'all,
Our meeting Saturday I am going to be experimenting with the gauze and liquid polymer clay bracelet. Note the experimenting part. I have enough gauze to wrap the building and liquid pc to share if anyone wants to play along. If you have something else you want to bring and work on that's great too.
In addition to my regular clay kit (pasta machine, work surface, blades, acrylic rod, hand wipes)
these are the supplies I will be bringing:
Kato Liquid PC - regular and colors
Pearl-ex
Cotton gauze
pre-made pc cabochons

Brass bracelet forms

wire
Clay in colors to match the bracelets
Alcohol inks
a couple of small containers to dip and drip in.

See you there,
Maggie

2010-07-19T20:35:00.002-04:00

Hi Y'all,

Since our wonderful VEEP and demo coordinator is recovering from knee surgery and can't come to this Saturdays meeting I told her I would throw a line out to see what everyone wanted to do. I have a couple of suggestions. Back in February Polymer Clay Daily featured a alcohol ink dyed, liquid polymer clay soaked gauze bracelet by Susan O’Neill (11BoldStreet). I was fascinated and wanted to try it. Or we could do the watercolor technique we did before using alcohol inks, rubber stamps, cutters and cloth for texture. I love that one because it's different every time. Any other suggestions from those attending? Or we could just play. Any ideas? Either way we will be meeting at 12:00 at Expressive Impressions in Pineville.

Maggie

2010-07-01T16:12:00.003-04:00

Our Queen City Clayers June meeting was held on the 26th at the Blythe location. Kathy brought her lathe and taught us how to turn polymer clay (literally) like you turn wood spindles. TOO COOL. I was intimidated by the fast spinning contraption at first. Kathy is such a good, calm teacher we got through it. Soon clay was flying and the graceful shapes of turned pens were emerging. After baking we put them back on the lathe for the fastest sanding you have ever seen. We left with finished pens and key chains we are proud of. Thank you Kathy for bravely sharing your tools and talent. A very exciting and different demo. I think I have a new piece of equipment to want.
For those that missed it Kathy might be talked into demoing again some time if we ask real nice.
Many thanks go Cheryl's hubby for carrying the very heavy lathe in and out too.
Our next meeting will be on July 24th at Expressive Impressions.
More details later.

Submitted by Maggie

Saturday Meeting

2010-06-24T21:23:00.002-04:00

Our next meeting is this Saturday. She will be Demo-ing PC on a lathe.She has been doing this for a few years now and I for one can't wait to see how its done. I'll post pics for all to see after the meeting.
List from Kathy:
We will be turning pens on a lathe. Please bring canes and sheets of polymer clay that coordinate. You can also bring skinner blends and sheets of polymer clay where the pattern goes all the way through the sheet. Bring more than you think you will use.

Prices of the pen kits are as follows:

Gold - $6.35
Platinum - $8.95

I should also have some keychain kits available. They are:

Gold - $2.20
Chrome - $1.80

Hope to see you there.

Kathy

2010-05-20T13:22:00.003-04:00

Hi all,
Our last meeting was held at the Blythe Ave. location. We had a great time making inro boxes of all sorts. Julie offered to teach a 2 day face cane class open to paid members of the qcc and BRPCG. That will be in July.
We are going to have a meeting at Expressive Impressions Saturday. A clay play day of sorts. Bring what you want to work on or need help with. And show and tell. It's always fun to see what everyone has worked on. So, those of you who can't make it won't miss out too much except our delightful company. Hopefully we can re-schedule the lathe demonstration for another meeting.

I plan to be there about 12:00.
This is the new address and information for Expressive Impressions. Our next meeting will be back at the Blythe location.

Expressive Impressions, Inc. email: kim@kimstjean.com or
10615 Industrial Drive
Suite 100
Pineville, NC 28134
704-962-3496
Open to the public: Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm
Monday 10:00am-3pm WHOLESALE ONLY. If you want to come after 3pm, make sure you call ahead of time.

2010-04-21T11:23:00.002-04:00

Can't believe it's already time for our next meeting. Our last one was so much fun. We learned how to make silk screens and do Kumihimo weaving all thanks to Brenda. We also collected dues for the first time. We had enough to buy our own guild oven, timer and some paper towels! I think we might have enough left over for a thermometer too. Yeah!

This time I'm taking lead on making inro pendants.

Bring the following:
Decorated sheet of clay. Anything you like. Textured Skinner blend works well.
Sheet of plain paper
cording and beads to coordinate with your clay

Your regular clay kit (work surface, pasta machine, blades, roller, clean up wipes etc.)
If you have but don't run out and buy: tall cutters, Kato repel gel
That's all I can think of right now.

Anyone else want to add anything?

See you all Saturday, 12:00 Blythe location.

2010-04-16T09:08:00.000-04:00

Hi Y'all,

Just a quick reminder. QCC meeting Saturday the 24th at the new location. We will be doing inro pendants. Supply list as soon as I can get together. 12:00. Right Cheryl?
We also have a meeting scheduled at Expressive Impressions for May 22th. More later.

Maggie

Silk screens and Japanese weaving

2010-03-18T20:11:00.002-04:00

We may get around to the plans for January's meeting in March! Here is a re-posting of the materials.

"...will be a bit of an Asian affair - we'll be making our own silk screen and learning a Japanese weaving technique on the Kumihimo Loom.

We'll start off with our silk screen using PhotoEZ, a green, photo-sensitive, water-dissoluble plastic film with an embedded fine mesh. (You can buy it at Circuit Bridge but I have enough for everyone to do a demo.)

We'll expose the film to strong light which will change the film from a water dissoluble material to a water resistant one. Using a black & white print of choice, we will use it to block the light of our design areas, then soak the film in water, and the part of the film that isn't exposed to light will dissolve away, leaving only the mesh while the parts of the film exposed to light remain. Voila! our silk screen!

Any black & white image you can printout from a computer can be used for making your silk screened image! You can draw your own or you can scan in images from books. Shoot for an image no larger than 2x2 for our demo. I'll have some Gwen Gibson silk screens that will be fun to use to overlap for a neat effect.

Making a silk screen is very easy! Bring with you:

2 pieces of glass, approx. 3x5, 4x5 - I use glass from cheap picture frames
1 2x2 black & white image that you want to use to make a silk screen - I have some pictures you can choose from but if you want to do your own thing, bring it.
1 plastic container to soak your silk screen in as it develops

I'll have everything else.

Once we have our silk screen, we'll use it to paint a design on clay and then create a pendant. Here is where you need to make some decisions; what color for the clay pendant, what colors do you want to paint on your pendant - of course, your choice in the image for the silk screen will help you determine colors.

Now to use the silk screen - bring with you:
*Basic clay tools: tissue blade, pasta machine, tile, roller, cookie cutter shapes,etc.
*Clay to make a pendant - conditioned, your choice of color
*Acrylic paint - the best is Golden Paints (I have silver, red, and a gold - you're welcome to use them if they suit, if not Michael's has a great selection but you will not need much so don't spend a fortune here)
*An old credit/gift card to use as a squeegee or hey! a real squeegee!

We'll make our pendant and while it bakes - I'll have an oven - we'll learn to use the Japanese Kumiloom to create a cord which will complement the pendant you have just made. For the cord, you can bring yarn that will match your pendant - the Adornment yarns at Michaels in the scrap booking section are great to use for these woven cords but I would start with a basic, and simple yarn. I will have lots for you to choose from, but again, if you're into coordinating this project, you'll want to be sure you have the right colors to match your pendant. You'll need approximately 15 yards of yarn - two contrasting colors makes it easier to learn technique, in that case 7 1/2 of each color. For this project, you only need to bring any special yarn that you want to use. I talk about using "yarn" but Kumihimo cords can be made with silk threads, nylon cords, hemp, funky yarns, c-lon, almost anything. In keeping it simple, I suggest using basic yarn. The looms - I'll make some temporary looms and bobbins for you to try this out - if you like it, you'll want to buy one of the foam looms and the plastic bobbins. Check out this website What is Kumihimo? for more information.

Think I've covered it all but if you have questions, please let me know. I'm looking forward to having something I've designed that I can share with you guys! See you on the 20th!"

March Meeting

2010-03-18T18:26:00.002-04:00

Just a reminder: Our QCC meeting is this Saturday (the 20th) 12 - 4 at our new meeting place.
Brenda is going to show us how to make and use silk screens. Yeah! It will be loads of fun. Let me or Cheryl know if you need directions.
See you there.
Maggie

2010-03-11T10:25:00.002-05:00

Hi Y'all,

Our February 27th QCC meeting was small but full of fun. There were 3 of us, Maggie, Cheryl and Kathy. We first drove to the new meeting place to check it out. It is a nice facility and will be great for guild meetings. Since there were just the three of us and Cheryl offered to serve us carrot cake (yum) we followed her to her house.
While eating our bag lunches and setting up we had a short guild business meeting.
In a previous meeting it was discussed the need to take the next step for the guild and start a treasury to cover expenses like a guild oven, library, etc. It was agreed that members would pay $2.00 each, starting at the next meeting (March 20th). We also agreed that new people would not have to pay for the first 2 meetings they attend. They would be expected to pay at the 3rd meeting and could be considered members eligible for benefits. Library privileges will be discussed at a later time. (When we actually have a library;))
The first installment of Fimo products, generously sent to us by the Staedtler Company, was given out (member benefit). It was suggested we come up with a project using just Fimo. That is still in the works.

Then it was time to try our hands at the Sutton slice using Lisa Pavelka's new book as a guide. It's a little trickier than it looks.
But we had lots of fun trying and did end up with some nice results.
When we took a break Cheryl served us the promised carrot cake and it was very yummy.
Thanks to Cheryl and her husband for being such great hosts.

Challenge: In the December 2009 National Geographic are pictures of pollen grains They are just amazing. Try to copy them in pc. If you can't find the pictures let us know.

Our next meeting will be at the new meeting place on the 20th(contact us for directions - queencityclayers.blogspot.com) .
We will be doing the silk screen technique. Check prior posts for the supply list.

Submitted by Maggie,
March 11, 2010

Technique Demo for February Meeting

2010-02-25T19:16:00.006-05:00

Here is the new supply list for this Saturdays meeting. We are going to work on the Sutton Slice technique out of the new book by Lisa Pavelka "The Complete Book of Polymer Clay". Please bring your basic PC kit, conditioned and coordinating PC, automotive spray for a release agent, along with any unmounted Rubber Stamps with depth and semi-detail. To much detail in a stamp is harder to work with. Last but not least, and one of the most important is a NEW sharp Blade. If you would like to see some of Lisa Pavelka's work please visit her website at: http://www.lisapavelka.com/. Also view our very own Guild Member, Julie Eakes work on this technique on her April 28, 09 blog.
Please contact Maggie or me for directions since we have a new meeting location.

Demo Change for Saturday

2010-02-25T15:43:00.002-05:00

Hi Y'all,
Sorry, we have to change the demo for this meeting. We will be doing the Sutton Slice made popular by Lisa Pavelka. A supply list will follow later this evening.

Hopefully we will be able to do the other one at a later time.

And please remember there has been a change in meeting places.

Hope to see you Saturday.
Maggie

Congratulations to these wonderful Polymer Clay artist

2010-02-24T21:22:00.002-05:00

The NICHE Awards celebrate excellence and innovation in American and Canadian fine craft. Artists are recognized in professional and student divisions. Winners were announced at a ceremony in Philadelphia on Friday, February 12, 2010. Congratulations to the following Polymer Clay artist in the Professional Division. The winner in the Polymer Clay catagory was Melanie West for her Bracelet, "Nudibranch" in the BioBangle Series. In Fashion Jewelry, Sandra McCaw was a winner for "Floating Leaves Earrings". Also, Jeffrey Lloyd Dever was the winner in two different catagories the Teapot and fiber-Decorative. Please view the site to see all of the finalists and winners artworks. http://www.nicheawards.com/Our-Professional-2010-winners.php. Congratulations to everyone!

(my apologizes to anyone I have missed.)

February Meeting

2010-02-24T21:05:00.004-05:00

Hello Everyone,
Just a friendly reminder this Saturday is the Queen City Clayers Meeting.
Brenda is presenting our Demo for the month. Please view: January 30th blog for the details and supply list. Meeting time at 12:00. There is a new location, IF planning to attend please contact Maggie or Me for directions. Look forward to seeing
everyone.
Cheryl

Jan. Meeting Cancelled

2010-01-30T09:49:00.002-05:00

Due to the weather we are cancelling the meeting today. Please check back for the posting of the date for the February Meeting and the Demo. We also have a new meeting place and we will post the directions soon. At the next meeting we will discuss possibly making it our permenant location.

2010-01-15T16:44:00.002-05:00

I'm sad to say that Expressive Impressions is closing on the 28th of this month. We are currently looking for another meeting place. I'm sure we will have somewhere by the 30th. We will announce the location as soon as possible. I'm really looking forward to Brenda's demonstration of silk screen making and Kumihimo braids. Sounds like it will be a busy, fun meeting. BTW Expressive is having a going out of business sale. 50% off most things, 25% off Swarovski crystal.

Maggie

January 30th Meeting

2010-01-11T20:20:00.005-05:00

January's meeting will be a bit of an Asian affair - we'll be making our own silk screen and learning a Japanese weaving technique on the Kumihimo Loom.

We'll start off with our silk screen using PhotoEZ, a green, photo-sensitive, water-dissoluble plastic film with an embedded fine mesh. (You can buy it at Circuit Bridge but I have enough for everyone to do a demo.)

We'll expose the film to strong light which will change the film from a water dissoluble material to a water resistant one. Using a black & white print of choice, we will use it to block the light of our design areas, then soak the film in water, and the part of the film that isn't exposed to light will dissolve away, leaving only the mesh while the parts of the film exposed to light remain. Voila! our silk screen!

Any black & white image you can printout from a computer can be used for making your silk screened image! You can draw your own or you can scan in images from books. Shoot for an image no larger than 2x2 for our demo. I'll have some Gwen Gibson silk screens that will be fun to use to overlap for a neat effect.

Making a silk screen is very easy! Bring with you:

2 pieces of glass, approx. 3x5, 4x5 - I use glass from cheap picture frames
1 2x2 black & white image that you want to use to make a silk screen - I have some pictures you can choose from but if you want to do your own thing, bring it.
1 plastic container to soak your silk screen in as it develops

I'll have everything else.

Once we have our silk screen, we'll use it to paint a design on clay and then create a pendant. Here is where you need to make some decisions; what color for the clay pendant, what colors do you want to paint on your pendant - of course, your choice in the image for the silk screen will help you determine colors.

Now to use the silk screen - bring with you:
*Basic clay tools: tissue blade, pasta machine, tile, roller, cookie cutter shapes,etc.
*Clay to make a pendant - conditioned, your choice of color
*Acrylic paint - the best is Golden Paints (I have silver, red, and a gold - you're welcome to use them if they suit, if not Michael's has a great selection but you will not need much so don't spend a fortune here)
*An old credit/gift card to use as a squeegee or hey! a real squeegee!

We'll make our pendant and while it bakes - I'll have an oven - we'll learn to use the Japanese Kumiloom to create a cord which will complement the pendant you have just made. For the cord, you can bring yarn that will match your pendant - the Adornment yarns at Michaels in the scrap booking section are great to use for these woven cords but I would start with a basic, and simple yarn. I will have lots for you to choose from, but again, if you're into coordinating this project, you'll want to be sure you have the right colors to match your pendant. You'll need approximately 15 yards of yarn - two contrasting colors makes it easier to learn technique, in that case 7 1/2 of each color. For this project, you only need to bring any special yarn that you want to use. I talk about using "yarn" but Kumihimo cords can be made with silk threads, nylon cords, hemp, funky yarns, c-lon, almost anything. In keeping it simple, I suggest using basic yarn. The looms - I'll make some temporary looms and bobbins for you to try this out - if you like it, you'll want to buy one of the foam looms and the plastic bobbins. Check out this website What is Kumihimo? for more information.

Think I've covered it all but if you have questions, please let me know. I'm looking forward to having something I've designed that I can share with you guys! See you on th 30th!

Poinsettia Cane class

2009-12-23T10:23:00.002-05:00

Here are some pictures I took at our last meeting. Unfortunately the Asheville crew couldn't make it because of the snow.

Meeting today is on

2009-12-19T10:28:00.002-05:00

Hi Y'all,

We are having the meeting today. 12:30 at Expressive Impressions. Yeah, the ice is melting on this side of town!
Can't wait to see Julie's poinsettia cane. Now I have to rush and finish my bulls eyes.

Hope to see you all there.

Maggie

Meeting

2009-12-18T18:38:00.002-05:00

Hi Y'all,

We will be making a decision about the meeting at 10:00 tomorrow. Hopefully the ice/snow will be showing signs of going away. We will post asap.

Meeting news

2009-12-15T11:23:00.000-05:00

Hi Y'all,

The Queen City Clayers meeting is this Saturday, December 19th, 12:30 at Expressive Impressions. It's going to be lots of fun. A group of our BRPCG friends are coming from the Asheville area. Julie will be demonstrating her lovely Poinsettia cane.

The fun starts at 12:30.

Maggie

Supplies for Sat Meeting

2009-12-13T19:09:00.002-05:00

CLAY: You will need two oz of dark red and two oz of light red. Now if
you are afraid of mixing colors just bring 4 oz of red and about 1 oz of
white. What I hope to do is make sure that we have different shades of
red between all of us. So after we get together I will have some people
make their red lighter and some make their red darker. After we make
our skinner blends and leaf halves we can then trade with others so
everyone will not have to make all the of the shades. Get it? Ok you
will also need to bring green, black, gold, translucent and your
background color.
CANES: Bring two leaf canes if you have them. One will be used for the
holly and one for the poinsettia class. If you don't have any bring a
skinner blend that goes from dark green to light green. If we have time
we can make it into a leaf cane if you need the help.
GOLD LEAF
BASIC CLAY STUFF - pasta machine, acrylic roller, mat etc.

Supplies for Sat Meeting

2009-12-13T19:09:00.000-05:00

2009-11-20T14:50:00.002-05:00

Hi Y'all,

Our meeting tomorrow (November 21st)is at Expressive Impressions, 1:00. We are using Laurie's beautiful necklaces that are not polymer clay as an inspiration. Julie has been experimenting and the following are the supplies she said to bring.

"I would bring embossing powders, gold or silver leaf, stamps, texture plates, inks, paints and anything else you can think of to add surface techniques to clay. You should also bring some light colored conditioned clay. If we have time we can work on a new technique that I have been working on. You’ll need a deep stamp (I’ll bring some) some inks, some liquid black kato (again I’ve got some) and a heat gun."
Of course your clay tool kit is always needed - work surface, blade, pasta machine, hand wipes, etc.

Can't wait to see her new technique!
See you there.
Maggie

2009-11-12T17:18:00.002-05:00

Exciting news. Our own Julie Eakes has been invited by Donna Kato to instruct at the 2010 Clay Carnival. We know what a great teacher and artist she is. If you don't please check out her blog (see the link attached to this blog). Way to go Julie, Queen of face canes and all round talented artist.

2009-10-28T15:45:00.003-04:00

Hi Y'all,

We had Our October 24th meeting at Expressive Impressions. Five of us were there. I brought information and the regristration sheet for the Kathleen Dustin workshop in Asheville in March.
Cheryl demonstrated how to make little elf heads and attach them to glass Christmas balls.
We all thought they were adorable. Great job Cheryl! Thanks for the balls too. Each one turned out different. So Cute. After that I demonstrated a different style of face making. Then we made more funny faces (no, not just at each other). Some of us also worked on other projects or shopped. After all we do meet in a great bead store.
It's surprising how fast 3 hours can go by when you are having so much fun.
Our next meeting will be November 21st. We will be doing a surface technique inspired by the beautiful necklace Laurie brought. More on that later.

Posted By Maggie

Demo for Sat 24th. Santa's elf.

2009-10-20T19:47:00.001-04:00

Here is the supply list for Cheryl's demo this Sat.

This Saturday we will be working on an Christmas Elf ornament. You will need to have all clay "conditioned":
1 block of flesh or beige color for face,
1 block of your favorite Christmas red color, or Christmas Green (this is for his Hat and Bow)
1 block of white
E-6000 or super glue2
black tiny glass marbles for his eyes
And of course your basic claying materials. If you want to make the full Elf also, you will need to bring both 1 block of red and green, 26 g wire for body, two little 1/16 balls of yellow and two 9/16"balls of brown for shoes and two brown ropes to wrap around each ankle. And a small strand of tiny Christmas lights to string in his hands. This will be a fun challenge for me in size and correct proportions. Wish me luck in finishing the actual Demo piece on time.

Erin Rose Fae

2009-10-19T21:26:00.002-04:00

Inspired by the Wendy Froud's dvd "Creating a Faery Figure" dvd I made my first cloth dressed doll and named her Erin Rose Fae. Her dress is made of crinkled cotton and the bodice is formed from a piece of a belt I found. Her hair and braids are viscose and are adorned with tiny polymer clay roses. Her stand is a polymer clay "rock" path. She isn't perfect but I learned a lot from the dvd and making her. Can't wait to start my next one.

Maggie

Oct 24th Demo supplies

2009-10-19T20:34:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone,
This Saturday we will be working on an Christmas Elf ornament. You will need to have all clay "conditioned":
1 block of flesh or beige color for face,
1 block of your favorite Christmas red color, or Christmas Green (this is for his Hat and Bow)
1 block of white
E-6000 or super glue
2 black tiny glass marbles for his eyes
And of course your basic claying materials. If you want to make the full Elf also, you will need to bring both 1 block of red and green, 26 g wire for body, two little 1/16 balls of yellow and two 9/16"balls of brown for shoes and two brown ropes to wrap around each ankle. And a small strand of tiny Christmas lights to string in his hands. This will be a fun challenge for me in size and correct proportions. Wish me luck in finishing the actual Demo piece on time.

Dragon Votive

2009-10-19T20:24:00.004-04:00

This wonderful work of art, was presented by Maggie Westfall. She used a translucent polymer clay to cover the glass votive. The sculpted dragon is faux jade, made from translucent and a tiny amount of green, applied to the clay surface. Bits of imitation metal leaf and stamp designs complete the decoration around the rest of the votive. The dark base is made of polymer clay rings.

Dustin Workshop in Asheville

2009-10-18T12:48:00.003-04:00

Here is the information I promised on the Kathleen Dustin workshop.
It is so exciting to have the opportunity to learn from one of the top polymer clay artist around. If you aren't familiar with her work check out her site. www.kathleendustin.com

Workshop Description and Details:
While making a pin or large bead, each student learns how to layer translucent
polymer clay to produce a rich depth of surface using image transfers,
permanent inks, simple millefiore, gold leaf and powder inclusions, carving,
sanding and buffing. At the same time, Kathleen presents basic artistic
principles to aid students in making decisions as they work with this involved
technique. This is an intermediate to advanced level workshop.
When: Saturday, March 27 and Sunday, March 28, 2010
10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Avery Creek Community Center (directions on request)
Cost: $310 (BRPCG Members)
$350 (Non-BRPCG Members)
Payment schedule:
$50 Deposit due by November 1, 2009
One-half of remaining balance due by January 22, 2010
Remaining balance due March 15, 2010
Cancellation with full refund if cancelled by February 26, 2010
No refunds after February 26, 2010
Lunch: Potluck or $5 if coming from out of town
All Images ©2008 and used by
permission of artist
www.kathleendustin.com
Workshop contact:
Barb Verni-Lau
828-691-5879
gvernilau5@aol.com
THE BLUE RIDGE POLYMER CLAY GUILD IS PROUD TO
ANNOUNCE A 2-DAY WORKSHOP WITH RENOWNED ARTIST
Kathleen Dustin
Saturday, March 27 – Sunday, March 28, 2010
Asheville, North Carolina area
TRANSLUCENT TECHNIQUES AND DESIGN
DECISION PRINCIPLES
Blue Ridge Polymer Clay Guild
Kathleen Dustin Workshop
Saturday, March 27 – Sunday, March 28, 2010
Registration Form
Please print or type all information
Personal Information:
Name:
Address:
City:
State & Zip Code:
Telephone
Number(s):
Email Address(es):
Payment Information:
TOTAL WORKSHOP FEE $310 (BRPCG Members); $350 (Non-Members) þ
Deposit: $50 (Due November 1, 2009) $
One-half of any remaining balance (Due January 22, 2010) $
Final remaining balance (Due March 15, 2010) $
Lunch (if not bringing a potluck dish): $5 (includes lunch for both days) $
Payment in Full $
TOTAL AMOUNT ENCLOSED $
£ Place me on waiting list if class is full; hold any payment made.
£ Do not place me on waiting list if class is full: return any payment made.
LAST DAY TO CANCEL WITH FULL REFUND IS FEBRUARY 26, 2010
Make all checks payable to _________________________. Sorry, no credit cards.
Mail completed registration form (including check) to:
Barb Verni-Lau
473 S Turkey Creek
Leicester, NC 28748

2009-10-16T18:38:00.002-04:00

Hi Y'all,

Our last meeting was so much fun. There were 5 of us there. We all shared finishing ideas, tips and tricks. Learned a lot and had fun doing it.

Our next meeting will be on the 24th of October. Cheryl will be demonstrating an Elf Holiday ornament. Can't wait. See you there.

BTW

I'd like to mention the Blue Ridge Polymer Clay Guild is hosting Kathleen Dustin to teach 2 days in March. What an exciting opportunity to learn from one of the top polymer clay artist around.
A deposit is due November 1st. I will post more info soon.

Maggie

Link on Cane Tutorials

2009-10-13T19:48:00.003-04:00

Here is a link that I stumbled on. I think it has a lot of great tutorials. Some have to be translated others I can't figure out how to translate but as they say a picture is worth a thousand words.

Here is the link http://www.naamaza.com/site/detail/detail/detailDetail.asp?detail_id=46688

Hope you enjoy looking though them as much as I did.

Kumihimo Loom

2009-09-27T10:12:00.002-04:00

Thanks for all the great suggestions on finishing off polymer clay pieces. If you get tired of the buna or waxed linen, try making your own cords with the Kumiloom. Julie and Maggie got one Saturday from Expressive Impressions for only $8.00. Here are some good links to get you started - you can get as fancy as you want but with the intricate work you guys put into the polymer clay pendants and beads, a simple yarn or C-lon cord is perfect! I use hemp, C-lon, any and all yarns, eyelash yards, the scrapbooking yarn packs - great color and texture combos, ribbons, try anything! This should be enough to get you started - enjoy.

Braiders Hand

Kumihimo KumiLoom Braiding Instructions - video tute

Orion's Plummage - Practical Braid

2009-09-19T12:04:00.002-04:00

Hi Y'all,

Our last meeting was so much fun. Julie kept us moving fast on making flower canes. She even brought play dough so we could try the play dough reduction technique. What a hoot. It works too.
Our next meeting will be on finishing techniques. Bring your beautiful baked clay pieces that you don't know what to do with. You will also need to bring your clay kit (work surface, rollers, pasta machine, blades, liquid polymer clay) clay to make "frames" , wet/dry sand paper- 400, 600 and 800 grit, small container for water, wire and tools (round nose, flush cutters, chain nose pliers, etc.) for wire wrapping and bale making.
Julie, Cheryl do you have anything to add to the supply list?

2009-08-13T21:09:00.003-04:00

FuN, fUn, Fun! Here we are claying away at the July Meeting. In the first picture is Kathy. Then the second picture has Julie and Brenda. The third one is Brenda and Maggie. Laurie is in the fourth picture, and Julie again, all is having a great time.

more supplies

2009-08-13T19:48:00.002-04:00

I forgot to include translucent and scrap clay. Also bring a small bowl and a soft toothbrush. We are going to try out a new technique.

Supplies for August 15th meeting

2009-08-13T11:59:00.000-04:00

We will be doing flower and leaf canes at our August meeting. In addition to your usual clay supplies bring some skinner blends in some pretty flower colors. Example - pink to light pink, yellow to white, blue to white etc. Also bring some green skinner blends for the leaves. Use about half a package for each color in the blends. Leave them as slabs instead of rolling up into plugs. You will need shades of green clay for the leaves, some gold and browns and white and black clay. Since we are doing caning I would highly recommend a stiffer clay like Kato or Premo. See you then!

2009-08-05T17:36:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone,

I'm running behind as usual posting about our July 25th meeting.

We had it a Expressive Impressions on S. Tryon as usual.

There were 6 of us there. Brenda, Julie, Cheryl, Laurie, Kathy and Maggie(me).

We had a very short discussion of guild business. Show and tell followed. Julie showed off her latest Maasai woman cane and beaded pieces from her trip to Africa, Brenda has been busy making photo transfers, Cheryl and I showed off our turtles from last time. After that Julie did a demonstration of a really cool technique using a skinner blend.
We all left with pretty little pieces to use. Laurie took some photos of the meeting so hopefully we can get them posted soon. A fun time like always. Sharing and learning and laughing. That's what makes clay guilds so great.
Our next meeting is on August 15th. We will be demonstrating flower and leaf cane techniques
so we will have pieces to use for our September Demo on finishing polymer clay jewelry. We have had many requests for both of these so don't miss it.
Submitted by Maggie

July Meeting

2009-07-20T16:47:00.001-04:00

In addition to your usual clay items you will need three colors that will make a nice skinner blend. You will also need some white and black clay. A 2oz block of each should do it. See you on Saturday!

June meeting report

2009-06-23T16:13:00.002-04:00

Our June 20th meeting at Expressive Impressions had 5 people there including new member Linda. Linda is a neighbor of Brenda Branson and an art teacher. She is already well into polymer clay and brought lots of show and tell. Cute dragons, turtles, mermaids, dolls and more.
Also there were Kathy (new member in May), Cheryl, Julie and Maggie.
Julie, fresh from her class with Kathleen Dustin, Africa and Shrinemont, had lots of things to ooh and aah over. The eye candy just kept coming. Apparently she had a marvelous time at all 3 places and is getting offers to teach her face canes all over the country.
The business discussion of the meeting was short as usual. Cheryl brought some books with cute little Christmas things in them. We voted and are going to do an elf for October.
After business we started conditioning our clay making skinner blend bullseyes for the CF inspired turtle. It's so much fun when little balls of clay turn into something amusing. And everything is better with cane slices and beads on top. Everyone left with their own very unique turtle.

We twisted Julie's arm a little and she will do our demo for July 25th (our next meeting). Check back for details.

Feel free to let me know if I missed anything.

Posted by Maggie

May meeting report, June meeting announcement

2009-06-11T16:08:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone,

Sorry it's taken me so long to get this meeting report out. The Queen City Clayers met on May 30th at Expressive Impressions. We had 5 people there. Me (Maggie), Cheryl, Laruie and 2 new faces (Kathy and Larua). Both are tallented clayers. Kathy found us from our listing in PolymerCafe. Laura has taken classes from Irene Dean where she met Bridgette from the BRPCG who told her about us. We discussed the possiblility of getting QCC business cards, and developing a logo. We did show and tell then since it was a clay play day went to doing own things. I made a torso for necklace display. Cheryl worked on a faux lampwork bead. Kathy mixed a ton of colors. Larua made canes from a skinner blend canes and a cute little head which she suggested should go on the rather large torso I was working on. Laurie worked on framing little glass tile covered pictures with polymer clay. We all had such a good time the meeting time went before we realized it. Thanks to Expressive Impressions for letting us meet there.

Our next meeting will be June 20th, 1:00 at Expressive Impressions. We will be trying Christi Friesen inspired turtles. Bring what ever clay colors you want for turtles. I suggest at least 2 or 3 and beads for the eyes if you like.
Hope to see you all there.
Maggie

May Meeting

2009-05-20T21:37:00.002-04:00

Hi Everyone,
This month's Guild meeting is on the 30th of May. We encourage everyone to bring their current Polymer Clay project to the meeting to work on; or "If" your stuck on a idea or need some help with a project that hasn't been completed bring it, and we can try to help you with a solution. : ) So if you haven't had time to Clay around lately, here is some time away from all the distractions to have some fun. Next month, Maggie will be presenting a Christi Friesen inspired Turtle.
Christi Friesen work has been shown in many popular magazines and in her new book: Polymer Clay and Mixed Media together at last! Here is her website: http://www.cforiginals.net/
Please take a look at her wonderful works of Art and more.

2009-04-22T19:18:00.002-04:00

Hi Y'all,

Time's fun when you're having flies, er i mean time flies.......
Our meeting is this Saturday (the 25th)
Since most of us missed the last hidden magic demo by Sharon Solly, Cheryl Smith has agreed to show it to us so check out last months supply list and come join us. I couldn't attend the last meeting and am looking forward to learning this fun looking method.
1:00 at Expressive Impressions.
Maggie

Saturday Meeting- April 25th

2009-04-22T18:12:00.003-04:00

Hello Eveyone,

Due to several members unable to attend the meeting last month. We are going to redo the Demo. Here is the turorial for the technique that is going to be shown again at the meeting.
you can find it here:
http://paroledepate.canalblog.com/archives/2008/09/08/10290126.html
This is a very fun version of Mokume Gane called Hidden Magic. (For a picture of my competed work see last months post)
Please bring the necessary supplies so you can "participate and learn " the technique. Along with your basic polymer clay kit.
I look forward to seeing everyone this Saturday. Please remember if the weather
is nice to dress cool, the room does get a bit warm. Especially when we turn on the oven.

Hidden Magic

2009-04-04T20:37:00.002-04:00

Here is the Hidden Magic Technique I made in the March meeting! Sharon Solly demo'd this technique provided by Parole de Pate (http://paroledepate.canalblog.com/) she was so very kind to provide the English translation. Even though the pictures were so good you could have followed the instruction without the words. Thank you Sharon for demonstating this wonderful technique. I decided to make a bracelet out of my shavings. This is my first successful attempt at making this Bracelet. I plan to put it in the Blue Ridge Polymer Clay Guilds silent Auction at there next meeting. Which happens to their fun filled ClayDay next Saturday.

Queen City Clayers next meeting will be April 25th at 1pm at Expressive Impressions. The April Demo has yet to be decided, will post when available.

Sharon Solly has been published several times in Polymer Cafe, to view her art go to:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/sharonsolly
If interested in the Blue Ridge Polymer Clay Guild's ClayDay on April 11th go to:http://www.brpcg.com/

2009-03-18T08:55:00.002-04:00

Exciting news:
We are meeting on the 28th at Expressive Impressions and we will have guests from the BRPCG. Bridget Downey and Sharon Solly are coming. Sharon is going to do the demo on "Hidden Magic" , a french version of Moku magane (sp?). Sharon has been published in Polymer Cafe and seen on Polymer Clay Daily. She is a wonderful talented teacher. Bridget is a talented clayer and lots of fun. Hope you get to come meet them.

Supply list to follow.

January meeting, February meeting info

2009-02-11T15:42:00.003-05:00

Hi Y'all,

I'm so bad at this I should be fired! Anyone want to take over?
Our last meeting was on January 24th at Expressive Impressions. We had 5 there including 2 new people. Linette and Ellen. Welcome. Show and tell included Julie's latest cane and bracelets. I brought a box and inro pendant make from the faux brocade technique from our previous meeting. As you can see from Cheryls photos the demo she did was translucent layered beads. She started with translucent skinner blends and went through making all the canes. Great job Cheryl! What a busy fast moving time. 4 hours just disappeared. The beads are so fun to make and even prettier in person.

Our next meeting is on February 21st , 1:00 at Expressive Impressions. Julie is going to demonstrate color mixing.

Translucent Bead

2009-01-23T20:54:00.003-05:00

Here is a look at my first attempt of a Translucent Bead. On January 24th, Queen City Clayers Guild will work on the canes to put together this intricate layering effect and complete a finished Bead.

2009-01-23T18:33:00.006-05:00

Maggie's wonderful artwork. The raspberry bracelet demostrates mokume gane technique. As the blue Bracelet features a Brocade technique which Maggie demonstrated in our November Guild Meeting.

January 24 Meeting

2009-01-14T20:22:00.000-05:00

At the next meeting on January 24, we will be making Translucent Overlay Beads.
Using Donna Kato's Translucent Skinner Blend Striped Canes as shown
in her new book " The Art of Polymer Clay Millefiori Techniques". We
will make a Translucent Dot Cane, Translucent/White Jellyroll Cane,
Mokume Gane Translucent/Foil Cane, and Colored Translucent Skinner
Blend/Stripped Cane. These canes are needed to make Translucent
Overlay Beads.

Supply List includes:
*6 -7 packs of Conditioned translucent clay (DO NOT combine packs,
keep each pack separate after conditioning)
*Make 4 different Translucent colors. Mix 1 pack of already
conditioned translucent clay to a small amount of colored clay.
(i.e.. Translucent green, or translucent blue)
*1-2 packs of Conditioned White clay
*1 pack of Conditioned Black clay
*Foil i.e JonesTones ( I will be bring mine if you don't have any
foil)
*Basic Polymer Clay kit (i.e. roller, table mat, cutting blade,
pasta machine, knitting needle to smooth cane, & Polyester Batting to
bake bead on)
It will take a little time to make the Translucent Skinner
Blend/Stripped Canes, so please have your Clay Conditioned prior to
the meeting.
If you have any questions, just let me know. Well I look forward to
seeing you all, and hearing about your Holiday. Our meeting place has
downsized, so please let us know if your are coming on the 24th.
Claying away,
Cheryl

Congrats to Julie

2009-01-05T17:02:00.002-05:00

Congratulations to Julie for not only creating her own really cool blog, complete with pics and instructions but also getting mentioned on Polymer Clay Daily. She is on her way to fame and we will be able to say we knew her when.

Maggie

January meeting

2009-01-02T11:32:00.003-05:00

Hi y'all,
I've been really bad about posting. Busy/lazy. Our next meeting is scheduled for January 24th at the newly downsized Expressive Impressions. Same location but the showroom will be the former classroom and the classroom is in what used to be the office. The entrance will be from the balcony. We will be doing a translucent cane covered bead and will have a supply list soon.
I have been remiss about posting a meeting report for our last meeting November 22nd.
We had such a great time. Sharon Solly, VP of the BRPCG and famous for her articles in Polymer cafe came all the way from Asheville to join us. She is so talented, such a natural and generous teacher. And a real hoot to be around. Thank you Sharon for joining us.
We also had another talented guest. Jan from Charlotte. Welcome Jan. Brenda, Cheryl, Julie and Maggie (me) were there also. Julie brought her amazing new face cane and other things along with tales from Clay Carnival in Los Vegas. Sounds like she had a blast.
We agreed to not collect dues this year until /unless we need them for room rent or supplies.
We had a ball doing the faux brocade technique. It's amazing to see other clayers choices of stamps and colors. Each turns out different. All in all it was an afternoon full of laughs and learning.

Great PC Websites

2008-12-29T05:05:00.002-05:00

One of my best learning tools, aside from our monthly meetings, of course - is reading blogs from other polymer clay artists. Just this week-end I discovered a really cool blog called Polymer Clay which is a sub section of the CraftGossip Blog Network. Not only do they cover polymer clay arts but several others such as knitting, jewelry, glass art, etc. You can subscribe to the newsletter and it'll come right to your email each time it is updated. Great place to check out - they offer several categories such as:

Guild Meeting November 22nd

2008-11-14T19:37:00.002-05:00

Hello everyone,
Our next meeting we are working on Brocade Surface Effects on Polymer Clay. This wonderful technique is the same as shown on the cover of Donna Kato's book " The Art of Polymer Clay / Creative Surface Effects".
Also we will be haing a wonderful guest joining us. A talented & gifted artist, the very same one featured in Polymer Cafe, Sharon Solly!
If your interested in joining us, please join our Yahoo group: polymerclaycharlottenc-subscribe@yahoo.com and chat with the Moderator.

Welcome to the Queen City Clayers Blog

2008-09-09T14:18:00.004-04:00

Hi Y'all. This is my first post to a blog ever! I would like to announce the formation of a polymer clay guild in Charlotte, NC. We are the Queen City Clayers. We get together about once a month
to have fun with polymer clay. We meet at the coolest bead shop and studio - Expressive Impressions. Check out their web site http://www.expressive-impressions.com/. Their calender will have our meeting dates and demo topic. Beginners are welcome but our demonstrations may be intermediate to advanced. Dues will start in January but you don't have to pay until after the first 2 meetings you attend.

Our first meeting was on August 23rd.
Officers were elected:
President: Maggie Westall
Vice President: Cheryl Smith
Secretary: Maggie
Librarian: Brenda Branson
Treasurer: Julie Eakes
The bylaws, membership guidelines and goals were agreed upon.
After the business meeting Brenda demonstrated how to use silk screens for a surface design. I demonstrated 2 types of cuff bracelets based on the Gwen Gibson video. It was fun but challenging. We used pvc pipe my husband cut in 1/2 lengthwise to make the rounded cuff bracelet. I learned at least 2 things. Not all pvc pipe is smooth on the inside and when you cut it in a band saw you have an oval bead roller not a round one. Ha ha.

The next meeting was on September 6th.
After a short business meeting stuff Cheryl Smith demonstrated a round box based on a Dan Cormier technique from the book “Polymer Clay exploring new techniques and materials“.
Cheryl did such a great job. She even provided us with the cardboard tubes for forms!
Cheryl also took some pictures of our stuff from the cuff bracelet and future meeting demos.
Hope to see them soon.

Our Next meeting will be on October 18th, 1:00 at Expressive Impression. Julie will be demonstrating her funky cane she learned from Sarah Schiver. It's going to be lots of fun. A tip from Julie is to check out COLOURlovers.com for unexpected color combination suggestions.
The ones she used for her cane are amazing together.

Like I said this blog stuff is new (and scary)to me. Hope I did ok.

Maggie