Monday 28 March 2011

Polymer Goodies Revealed Part 4 (Post 36)

Who would have thought that one batch of polymer clay could produce so much!  But first - 

 Handmade Monday No: 9 

(c) Charters Design: Ribbon Revival
I have mentioned this before, but just to remind you.  Wendy hosts a unique gift site and runs a regular blog in which she gives all us 'creative' people the opportunity to publicise what we've been up to all week - you may find that 'unusual' gift you've been looking for.  Its a great place to showcase your work, so why not join in every Monday. A true inspiration to all.

After creating my Part 4 goodies, I STILL had some polymer beads left and I made the Ribbon Revival necklace specifically to show how creative you can be with what is probably already in your Jewellery Stash box. 

(c) Ribbon Revival
Take a look at all what everybody else has been doing this week by visiting Handmade Monday No: 9

Thanks to Wendy for hosting Handmade Mondays ....

Polymer Goodies Revealed Part 4

This concludes the last set of polymer work, and incorporated a technique for blending various shades of colour to produce a mouthwatering selection.  I made two sets:
  1. Raspberry Ripple, and,
  2. Dragon Fire
Raspberry Ripple
Mmm, remember summer days and wafers of ice cream ... well, this is what this next set reminds me of.   
 
Close up of 'Raspberry Ripple'
I made these 'daggers' with a bit of a sharp angle, directing the hole so that when threaded it would emphasis this point.

Miyuki drops were used to give a 'stippy-stappy' look.  

Singular drops between the daggers but in groups of three on either side. Separated by delica seed beads.  Threaded on a memory wire.


(c) Charters Design - Raspberry Ripple Set
The necklace looks equally as nice with the smooth side showing - you could say its a matter of preference really.

The earrings were shaped to be flatter, to capture the contrast of pinky-red and white.  Little miyuki drops added to blend the style with the necklace.



One thing I'd always advise that you do when using memory wire, is to add a clasp to the ends.  Otherwise, you run the risk of the necklace falling off!  Be warned .... 

I added a trigger clasp and jump ring to the opposite end.

(c) Charters Design - Raspberry Ripple
SHOWS REVERSE SIDE WHERE DAGGERS ARE SMOOTH

Dragon Fire

(c) Charters Design - Dragon Fire
NB: Chain maille design courtesy of CG Maille.com

This is only the 2nd time that I have worked in Chain Maille.  I have to admit, I found it very fiddly. 

Worked in copper.  The jump rings were purchased but the links and earring wires were handmade and shaped.
 


This chain maille pattern is known as 'Rhinos Snorting Drano' - which to me, conjured up images of dragons!  

It is difficult to do the pattern the justice it deserves, as it kept turning just as I clicked the picture!!

(c) Charters Design - Dragon Fire
Handmade links, clasp and hookAnd ... the beads, my polymer creations.

If you would like to take up chain maille I would recommend you take a look at CG Maille Tutorials

You need very little supplies: two pairs of pliers and a supply of jump rings ... oh, and lots and lots of patience, and ... hand cream, because your hands will ache and will need a bit of TLC afterwards.

(c) Charters Design - Dragon Fire
Can you see the pattern?
 

No, the pattern is 'turning' again!





(c) Charters Design - Dragon Fire Set

There we have it - all of my Polymer Goodies Revealed, plus a little extra.


I'm pleased that I also made my blog in time for  Handmade Monday 

I don't know if you have ever seen Beads and Buttons magazine?  Its a lovely magazine that showcases some amazing seed bead work.  The reason I'm saying this, is it is a great source of information and this week I'll be concentrating on beadwork.

Ok, and some more polyclay!

'Keep Watching and I'll Keep Blogging'

Charters


 

Tuesday 22 March 2011

Lonely Blog .... (Post 35)

Deserted ...
I can't believe that its been so long since my last post and after all my good intentions!  Apologies to all my loyal friends, and thanks for your continued support 



New Friends
I think that I should start by welcoming my three new lovely followers, who have recently joined us.
  1. Kat Shenton Kat is a multi talented lady, sharing enjoyment in Jewellery design, needlework, art and a cat lover.
  2. ZukieStyle  Dee is a Fashion graduate and creates beautiful vintage handbags and accessories.  Even bespoke accessories for pets! 
  3. Missy Polyclay, otherwise known as Daria - specialising in polymer clay goodies.  No, literally, all sort of sweeties, biscuits, cake looking polymer goodies!!  Take a look, she has some amazing creations.
    'Giveaway' In fact Missy Polyclay is giving you the chance of winning a pair of earrings - actually, there are 3 pairs up for grabs!  Go take a look NOW ....

    Award
    Many thanks go to Sherryn, who has honoured me with an award - always nice to know people are looking out for you.  Thank you x

    Moment of Truth
    Ok, so why no blog?  To be perfectly honest, somewhere along the line I, (like many others), lost the momentum, temporarily.  I suppose, as much as I HATE that expression ... I lost my 'mojo'.  One week turned into two ... etc etc.  Then, where do you start?     Particularly as I don't have any new goodies to show you.  I'm back at that set of crossroads, I've previously talked about.  Sort of inbetween 'routes'.  Good news though, I made a few lifestyle changes and will have more time to give to 'Charters Creations' ... I may even diversify into other artistic areas?

    I haven't forgotten I've still Part 4 to produce and will spend the next day or so concentrating on it.  So Folks, keep tuning in - this has just been a temporary 'blip' and normal service will resume as soon as possible - as they say!

    'Keep Watching, and I'll Keep Blogging'

    Charters