My dad was an engineer by trade.
And an artist in the evenings and weekend.
He worked with redware clay and made folk art figurines.
I am guessing that is where some of my love for clay comes from.
I am finding more and more that having it in my hands brings such peace and relaxation.
He worked in redware clay.
I work with polymer.
My favorite is Sculpey.
After I make the beads, there is also the mad scientist part of playing with finishes.
This piece was a play with beachy blues.
These beads do not have the crackled rustic look that I started with.
These look like they rolled in the ocean waves for a while and were worn.
I love that.
The texture really pops with this finish...
I think the clasp should be as pretty as the beads.
These handmade clasps make me smile.
I love forming them and then hammering them.
The dogs always try to come and help since I am sitting on the floor for the hammering.
Everytime I make a clay piece, I feel like there is a piece of me in it.
I know every handmade piece has a part of the maker in it....
But the polymer is different for me.
Maybe because I rolled it in my hands to warm it and bring it to life first.
Maybe because I feel a connection to my dad while doing it.
Maybe because the dogs infuse some of their love too while I am making clasps.
Whatever the reason, my clay pieces always make me smile.
Hope they do for you too.
