Hi, dear Cindy: Discovering Polymer Clay is one of the best things ever happening to me. It took away the fear of retirement, I have not been bored for one second. You never ever have to buy gifts for friends or family again, it’s good for the environment, because one recycles many items, it keeps your brain going, I could go on and on. For me it was a real life saver as well. Born in Germany, I spent wonderful 45 years in the United States, fell in love during a visit to my home town in Germany, got married there, you can imagine the rest. I was like a fish out of water, no friends, a workaholic husband (Mayor of town), so creating with Polymer Clay and keeping my apartment in New York as a security blanket, were my two life lines. I find the Polymer Clay community to be the most sharing and wonderful people in the artistic world. And YOU should consider yourself right on top of it! Thank you Cindy for helping to get more people involved in this incredibly versatile and happy making hobby. Keep up your wonderful work, Cindy, you are making a lot of people happy!  With very best regards and HAPPY CLAYING. ~Christl-P >> This comment was originally posted here: Teardrop Blend Shift Video

I actually use clay a lot in my treatments as an Occupational Therapist. I work with little kids in home health. It is a marvelous therapy tool. It’s also so rewarding. I am absolutely loving these videos. It is nice to meet so many wonderful people. ~Cassie-C >> This comment was originally posted here: Peacock Feather Cane Video

Kudos ladies. Learning techniques from Cindy has enriched our artistic abilities and enriched our lives. Big thanks to Cindy. ~Illaya-B >> This comment was originally posted here: Spotted Lily Cane

Oooo, this is so exciting…not only do we get to see more of everybody’s creativity, but a chance to win some of Cindy’s beads too! Woohoo! I just love our clay community, you guys are the best – and once again a big thank you to Cindy for bringing us all together, from all over the world. Being a part of this community really helps me battle my depression, so thank you clay family, you brighten my gloomy days!!  :) Keep on Claying. ~Lisa-W >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay Bead Giveaway

Thanks for this post! I’ve not been with Cindy very long and have been trying to work my way forward from the beginning…. there is something to look forward to each day, and this will help me through my grief over losing Don. I feel really connected to this new (to me) community and thank you all. ~Carolyn-F >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay Lessons

I have never had enough time to make the amount of beads it would take to sell them. My family takes them faster than I can make them already. I love making them for my family though so I will not complain. I have so much fun with my pc that is the main goal for me. It is what I call my out patient physical therapy. Very much medically and mentally needed!! Many Uuuuuuuugggs. ~Peggy-B >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay Beads

Sorry for bringing up this tragedy. It’s just when things like that happen, it makes you think about the good things in your life and how you should be thankful. Cherish what you have, and everyone else. There are people hurting out there. Help them if you can! My prayers go out to all of you, and I hope you will reach out to others, and be good to each other. Be happy, and enjoy your loved ones and family! Teach someone to clay, as its tactile properties and artistic qualities can help with healing. Try to be a good listener, sometimes that’s what someone really needs. You never know how badly someone might just need to be heard at a certain moment. Bless you! ~Phaedrakat >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay Tutorials

Lisa and Kat, Thank you so much for your caring support. That’s what I love about this community…. PEOPLE… So many people are so nice… We’ll all battle our ailments together.  If you both can do it, so can I. The both of you are always in my prayers. Love. ~Honey-S >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay Book Beads

I heard that it’s 5% of the world population (maybe 8-10% of women) who have fibro, but there sure does seem to be a good proportion of us on here. I wonder if it’s because clay is one of those “quick win” activities which doesn’t necessarily require much physical or mental effort but gives you the satisfaction of being able to create something pretty that you can be proud of, so people with fatigue or chronic pain or other illnesses kind of gravitate towards it. I’d guess that if you compared the “sick” population to the “healthy” population, you’d see a significantly larger proportion of crafters in the “sick” population. It would be interesting to see if anyone’s done any research into this. ~Silverleaf >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay Videos

I have fibromyalgia and sitting too long is a bear. But I found that I could adapt some polymer clay work to standing at a kitchen counter. I also found that tai chi is an excellent exercise; practically no impact and you can do it in your living room with no equipment other than a DVD player. ~Koolbraider >> This comment was originally posted here: Rocker Beads Video

Hello Fellow Clay Buddies: I ditto the recent comment of one of the members who said Cindy should do a tutorial on how she manages family and career so well. I would be very interested in that (tee hee)!!  Cindy is like a friend who I enjoy listening to every day and I have learned so much from her. Three cheers for Cindy and her supportive family. ~Samone >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay Support

I took a batch of beads out of the tumbler this morning after using the softener on them. I have to admit I am really pleased with the outcome. There is not one fingerprint on them. This is really a big deal for me… not having to even do any touch up sanding. I do not think I have mentioned this before. I suffer from arthritis in my hands, so anytime I don’t have to sand, is a good day… lol I believe the working with Polymer clay is the only reason I can still use my hands. Well I guess I will play the waiting game now and see if there will be any consequences to using the softener on the beads. Everyone have a great day. ~Jackie-N >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay Sanding

Cindy, Once again you have made my week a bit more bearable. I am sooo tired of being on bed rest, but you have given me so many things to look forward to these last 6 weeks. I definitely will be getting some micro mesh as soon as I can afford it. I don’t have carpel tunnel (which as a nurse I am aware of how very painful it can be), but I do have rheumatoid arthritis, and when it settles in my fingers and wrists just holding a fork can be very painful, so this will be a great thing to try! Not to mention that it goes quicker than regular sand paper! I am so happy! Thank you so much for helping me keep my spirits up through out my recovery. Once again I must say it, Cindy you are the bomb!!! ~Tiffany-M >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay Library

Love this technique, so easy for someone with hand difficulties!!! Splitting and rearranging the final cane just adds to the possibilities. ~Jocelyn-C >> This comment was originally posted here: Cookie Cutter Canes

Hi Linda K.– Thanks for thinking of me. We are not in the firing line for the floods this time so far. We had torrential rain all thru Nov and Dec, and even just a few days ago, when I start to worry my house frontage will get inundated if it doesn’t stop raining. But it is further down at present, in Queensland. I am so sorry for those people and it will take a long time to recover, so much lost. Even bigger than your Katrina. All we can do is donate what we can. They had a telethon on Sunday and collected 10 Million but even that is only a drop in the bucket it will take billions to recover if they ever do. I think the whole world with feel this as Australia is a producing country, and so much has been lost. But people are resilient and they are all helping each other, and I think more caring has already come out of this and there will be a new way to live when it all finishes, as we will realize we don’t own this earth, and wont be so complacent, as if it never happens to us personally. Nature rules as I say and we are at its mercy. Still we have fun and rely on things like here to keep us going. Thoughts of our creativeness can always bring relief, so I’m on to my Polymerized Fabric and so must get to it. Thanks again for thinking of me. Love. ~Elizabeth-K >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymerized Cloth Mixed Media

Just want you to know that I scheduled long overdue lab work for today (I’m a fainter, whiner, puker and generally a baby about such things). I figured that I would just think about the reward of coming home to watch the tut while she was poking me and that would get me through. Of course my reverie was interrupted with the phlebotomist’s exclamations that she had never seen such beautiful blood. She even requested an extra sample to show the world what the standard for perfect blood should be. (You believe me, right?). Ah, but I digress-I made it through without embarrassing myself and without causing her to have to change her uniform, and I know that it was the anticipation of watching the tut that saved me. Thank you, Cindy and Doug – I’ll bet you didn’t know the far reaching effects of what you provide for us. Oh, and the tut was wonderful!! I’ve got my table set up and I’m rarin’ to go. I couldn’t imagine how this was going to work-the roses are so beautiful. BTW, I threw two blocks of white Premo away yesterday as I just couldn’t get them to condition enough to work with them.  Wonder if they are different that others. ~Elizabeth-S >> This comment was originally posted here: Shaded Rose Cane Tutorial

Ritzs: It is so good to see you on the blog again, I always enjoy reading your comments and have thought of you often.  I agree with you, playing with clay is very therapeutic for both the body and soul. Glad you’re back. ~Jeanne-C >> This comment was originally posted here: Finishing Wax Bead Polish

I get these bursts of creativity and color ideas when I’m working out at the gym.I can hardly wait to finish my workout and get home to start making wonderful things. I LOVE POLYMER CLAY!!! ~Maria-C >> This comment was originally posted here: Sculptural Birdhouse Beads

Jocelyn! Sorry to hear you know first hand what fibro’s all about, but you made me laugh when I read your crack about the pain in the butt! … You’re right about “creating to cope”. I can get lost in creating art. ~Tanya-L >> This comment was originally posted here: Copper Bangle Video Tutorial

REGULAR COLOR RECIPE (A): Yellow Tourmaline ** B-SERIES COLOR RECIPE (B): Cliff Banks> Polymer Clay Tutorials Guest List VIDEO: Glazed and Stamped Polymer Clay Filled Bezels

Several years ago I fell and fractured my shoulder which meant a lot of therapy. Working with polymer clay has helped to strengthen my muscles and puts me in a zone where I’m concentrating and everything and all cares are moot. ~June-F >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay as Creative Art Therapy

Hi Cindy, Just wanted to tell you that I just finished watching the Johnny Jump Up Cane video and you are right by saying that it would make me smile! I am going through a series of difficult life / health issues with my family and self lately and your videos are very much bright spots to me during this time! I look forward to each new one to come out! You are so much more than just a Polymer Clay Tutor – you are a ray of sunshine to those who are under dark rain clouds too! Thank you so much for being the person who you are and for ALL that you do for others! xoxoxoxoxoxo. ~Lori-F >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay Tutorials

Knowing we are loved makes all the difference – and you will find, as I have, that ‘Cindy’s Group’ is loving above all. I thank God daily for bringing her [and her great teaching talent] into my life. It has helped me overcome so much. And, smushing that clay even seems to help the arthritis and fibromyalgia. Hang in there, Lynn. ~Carolyn-F >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay Friends and Support

I’m from Russia but live in Belgium now. I have a painful skin disease called Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa. When I’m working with polymer clay I can forget for a while about the pain and itching. I live in Antwerp but I was born in Uzbekistan in Tashkent city. I’ve learned a lot from your videos. Thank you so much for that. I appreciate what you doing!! You give people the chance to learn and be creative with polymer clay! I can read a book, but it is not the same. Your videos are very instructive and inspired for me. I’ve made a few roses from Volume 013. And I love them. ~Alexa-K >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay Art Therapy

Hi Cindy, thank you for the welcome… I have been to this site before but just now started my clay addiction… fought it as long as I could… I really want to take your paid course as soon as I get extra money but at the moment am caregiver for 99 year old gent and am paid a pittance… have many job offers for lots more money, just don’t have the heart to break his… took care of his wife also the 3 months prior to her passing near a year ago… in the meantime I’ll try to learn as much as I can for free. I’m very involved with caregiver support and also Alzheimer’s care and victims. I keep thinking that there is something here with working with clay that would be very therapeutic for Alzheimer’s victims AND the elderly. I’m working with trying to put together some classes for very simple items that folks might be able to do… I can see many benefits of this… the working of the clay for stiff hands… the mind activity… the feeling of accomplishment when they have made a simple ornament say for a gift or a clay flower, even beads or simple clay figures… I’m sure you see where I am going with this as my mind races… any suggestions or direction would be very appreciated… maybe someone is already doing this but it’s definitely not around here. Sorry to be so long winded… looking for ideas… oh, along with the fact that I can’t sit down without making beautiful beads… so fun and rewarding!! ~Darbi-R >> This comment was originally posted here: Sculpey III Polymer Clay

Phaedra was the name of my first Persian female. I was thinking of breeding cats, and had not discovered the pleasures of jewelry making yet. I had never heard of polymer clay! My baby kittykat is long gone now, as are days when my back doesn’t hurt. But I do love me some clay! I can only “play” for awhile, but find it to be very (mentally) therapeutic. The great thing about PC is that I can stop at any point and go lay down. When I feel good enough I can get right back to it. Such a fun and forgiving medium! Sorry, I tend to be long-winded. Thanks again for such a great place to visit! I think I’m going to like it here :) ~Phaedrakat >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay Therapy

Hi Cindy, On May 17th I have to have surgery on the top of my spine. I should have had the surgery in March but it was postponed and it seems I will be out of action for about 4 to six months I just hope I can still clay I am not one for being inactive I still have four weeks to do things… like this week’s tutorial… it looks good and I will have a go over the next couple of days. Your site has kept me sane over the last few months while coping with my health issues. I feel like I have a family of friends who care. Thank you and Doug for all you have done. ~Ritzs >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay Health Therapy

I am new at jewelry making. I just retired from teaching with a disability that makes it hard for me to do crafts like knitting and crocheting because they take long and etc. Anyway, a friend suggested making earrings. I am enjoying this immensely. My son helps if anxiety sets in. I am thinking of either selling on line or going to a craft fair or show. This list has a lot of great reminders that I wouldn’t thought of. I will continue reading for more ideas. For sure I will go to some shows as a visitor and see what they are like. Thanks for the input! ~Connie-N >> This comment was originally posted here: Selling Your Handmade Jewelry

LOVE YOUR SITE – I’m just starting my jewelry business and decided after much processing in different directions that I needed more creativity than just stringing pretty beads on wire. I needed creation, ART! It’s so relaxing to do clay and there’s an immediate (12 hours non-stop) gratification about it. Gotta love that. Thanks for making all those mistakes so that I can get to making finished pieces that don’t look like blobs of cooked clay. ~Emily-G >> This comment was originally posted here: Creating Your Own Polymer Clay Beads

LOVE YA, AND WHAT YOU BRING TO ME! YOU’RE AN AMAZING ARTIST!!!! Thanks for sharing your talents with all of us!! You are unique, and just so relaxed. For me, you help to reopen that creativity! As we get older (sometimes), things are somewhat intimidating. Your mannerism helps me to be “ME”, and that’s really something!!!! So, I’m as crazy as eva!!! Crazy as a Bedbug!!! Something to share – the beauty of being allowed the freedom to make something is such a Blessing. To reiterate something I might have mentioned – sometimes since I’m older I need a nudge to get me going. I want everything to be perfect (right at the get-go)! However, I’m realizing that some of my best work comes from making mistakes. Ahem!!! Mistakes can sometimes lead to newer horizons! We can’t be too hard on ourselves – the fact that you are trying something new (that is what’s important). My days are never dull, because my brain is always moving on (to bigger and better things). ~Diana-S >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay Tutor

Dear Jackie, Your beloved friend, Vance, was so right in being proud of you. Your work is beyond lovely. His encouragement then is so important now and I’m certain he is as close to you now as your shadow. When it is quiet he may speak to you in some unusual way. An inspiration that you cannot believe may come from him. He is not far away and ready to continue helping you in a different way. It is a new day and time for you with the hardest challenge I can imagine but I also believe there are blessings also for you to accept to help you on this part of your journey. Claying is next to nature and nature is the best healer. Continued success in your beautiful pieces. Love, hugs and blessings. Thanks so much, Cindy for letting us share. ~Joyce-M >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay Healing

Knowing you and Doug just can’t get any better. You both are THE BEST. It was such a great day when I found this web site and as a bonus, met two great people, CINDY AND DOUG. I was having the worst time in my life and like magic, you both were so kind and helpful to me. This sounds like I’m making it all up, but I’m not. I have a message book with all the help you both gave me. Plus the avatar, facebook, e-mailing pictures. I could go on and on, and on, but it’s 4:00 in the morning and I’m exhausted and hurting. I can’t keep my eyes open anymore. Will continue tomorrow. Good Night, Cindy and Doug. Love you both and Thank You, Again. ~Helen-S >> This comment was originally posted here: Mica Shift Polymer Clay Beads

For years Friday was the favorite day of the week because it was the last day of my work week. Then I got ill and had to quit working so half the time I didn’t know what day of the week it was. Thanks to Cindy, I am even more excited now about Fridays, than when I was working. Luv the heart beads and will need to make sure I have a few canes ready for Friday. Bonnie B said it… this site is better than chocolate. Any chance you might show us how to make some chocolate candy someday. If it wouldn’t be stepping on anyone’s toes I would love how to make a box of polymer chocolates. See you Friday Cindy. Love and Uuuuuuuuuuugggggggggggs. ~Peggy-B >> This comment was originally posted here: Heart Shaped Valentines Beads

I too suffer from back troubles. I have a birth defect and the doc thinks I may have fibromyalgia too. I’m thankful for having the clay to take my mind off it. I Hope we all can be pain free someday *fingers and toes crossed* In the mean time, we have our wonderful, supportive clay community and our clay to help. Who’s making Kaleidoscope canes today? Meeeeeeeeeeeeee! Clay On. ~Lisa-W >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay Bead Giveaway Contest

I’ve probably mentioned this before, but I’m in the chronic pain camp too. I have fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome and non-24-hour circadian rhythm sleep disorder. I love how so many people with chronic illnesses can create something beautiful without too much physical effort and really feel they’ve achieved something. ~Silverleaf >> This comment was originally posted here: Jellyroll Canes

Love your sliced cane swirl beads, and the wire wrapping is fantastic. I am hoping to learn how to wire wrap soon. I took one class in that but forgot how to go about it. The spliced cane is one of my favorites… it is the easy cane and the colors are just amazing! Yours are beautiful! And yes, I agree, it is therapeutic. I am a caregiver for my father-in-law and I am pretty much home… so working on polymer clay is a way for me to escape and not think about anything but that! ~Lupe-M >> This comment was originally posted here: Relaxation Therapy

Looks like a great month of tuts and I’m super excited because 2 weeks next month I will be off work recovering from surgery and will be able to spend lots of time sitting and playing with clay! ~Melinda-H >> This comment was originally posted here: Leopard and Zebra Canes

Best of luck to all who suffer pain daily, it affects every aspect of your being. But like I said to Cindy, the benefit of this site is that “Life sucks, but the peeps here CREATE to cope.” It beats all. ~Jocelyn-C >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay Video Library

Cindy, I would like to tell you a story and let you know how much you have touched my life and the lives of 4 “special needs” children: a 1st grader with autism, a 3rd grader with downs, and a 4th grader and 5th grader with learning disabilities. After 18 years working at a major communications company here in the states, I got laid off 6 years ago. Four years ago I was fortunate to find a job at an elementary school. It is the best job I have ever had – absolutely no stress! I’m a mom to 35 teachers and a grandma to 600+ kids. Last year I was able to show the “special needs” class how to make lentil beads and cut them into different shapes. We made pendants and earrings for their moms for Mother’s Day. They chose 3 colors, we made snakes and then twisted the snakes together. We made balls and then swirled the ball into lentils.  After pressing the lentils down, the kids then used cutters to make shapes if they wanted to. This year we made photo frames for their dads for Father’s Day. The kids did almost everything. They conditioned the clay. We made jellyroll canes and bulls eye canes and cut out basic shapes. They even tried to turn the extruder and made snakes. They decorated the frames and I took them home and baked them. Then, with baby wipes and waxed paper in hand, we put Future Floor Wax on the frames. When the frames dried the kids were so excited. My eyes fill with tears at their beauty and my heart was filled with pride at their accomplishments. The process took over a week at about an hour a day. It was worth every minute. Thank you again for all you (and your whole family) do.  You have given your heart and soul to all of us. You are so loved and so blessed. ~Linda-B >> This comment was originally posted here: Heartwarming Story about Special Needs Children

Hi Cindy: Wow, very cool. Thanks for your words of encouragement. You are much more than a “polymer clay tutor” and are a source of strength and encouragement to me in my own personal journey through life. Always best wishes to you and your family. Take care. ~Samone >> This comment was originally posted here: Seeds-of-Change Polymer Clay Art

REGULAR COLOR RECIPE (A): Rippled Glass ** B-SERIES COLOR RECIPE (B): Redwood > Polymer Clay Tutorials Guest List VIDEO: Making A Wish Dandelion Ghost Cane Project

I’m an aging nurse (still working) with two beautiful grand girls and Parkinson’s disease. Working with clay really helps my hand strength and coordination, not to mention my stress-level!  I sell some of my pieces at the local craft show, on Etsy and on my own web store. ~Susan-A >> This comment was originally posted here: Making Polymer Clay Beads

Alexa, Your jewelry is just beautiful, I can not imagine the pain you are in. I do know that polymer clay is a wonderful escape to ease pain, not only physical, but emotional as well. My husband passed away recently and because of his believing in me, I use polymer clay as a kind of therapy to help ease the pain. I hope it does help with your pain. You are in my prayers and keep making your beautiful jewelry. ~Jackie-N >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay Emotional Therapy

Jackie I wish I could take away your pain and sorrow. I too lost a very much loved brother very suddenly and the only way I could cope was do what I love the best… make beads and clear my mind of anything else. Your beads are beautiful and I hope just looking at them will bring all the good memories to you and make you happy once again. May god help you through this sad time. ~Ritzs >> This comment was originally posted here: Coping With Loss

Hip hip hurray for Josie!! Not only is Cindy saving us time learning all the fun of polymer clay but she is saving lives!!! My dad smoked for 30+ years and quit on a dime 15 years ago and is alive now because of it. He just turned 71 Sept 23!! Keep up the good work and many years of fun with polymer clay!!! ~Catalina >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay Canes

You’re welcome, Cindy, I love to help. As you might be able to tell, I haven’t been able to clay much lately. I’ve been stuck in bed with too much back pain, so I’ve been doing a lot of reading (and posting.) If I can’t clay, I love to read about it! Thank you for creating such a great site. It’s a wonderful clay community here, and it feels good to be a part of it. ~Phaedrakat >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay Baking Instructions

Hi Phaedrakat, My goodness… you are so helpful and so kind to give me all this information… I am going to follow through with all of it… just so excited about this and I have to admit… I bought all this clay several months ago and just took it out a couple of nights ago to start making beads… now I am so hooked… just the therapeutic value is immense, then to find helpful, friendly people, what a bonus. So glad I found this site! Thank you so very much and have a great day!! ~Darbi-R >> This comment was originally posted here: Sculpey III Polymer Clay

Cindy, It’s so kind of you to give an extra 5 bonus videos over the following weeks. I have completed (just once through) the entire Basic Course. Enjoyed it thoroughly as you are gifted with the knack of making things look so simple, thereby easy to follow. I truly cannot wait to start on the weekly tutorials. There are so many that I would like to purchase / learn from you. I prefer video tutorials to purchasing books as they are easier to follow since you demonstrate every step very clearly. Hopefully, I can be good with clay to start a very small home-based business to help supplement the household income especially with my husband’s growing RX and medical bills. Or if not, at least as a stress-reliever. Anyway, thank you for bonus videos, your friendliness, which as you are aware by now, all the folks in your tutorial circle already complimented you on. Blessings from ol’ Yong Rainey on the top of the rockies. ~Yong-R >> This comment was originally posted here: How To Store Polymer Clay Canes

Cindy. It has not been an easy time for me with my husband’s cancer and such, and when I get a few hours to myself I try to catch up. I’m so happy for you and proud to be a member. Plus this is the best therapy for me having a wonderful person like you to teach me and to help me feel better. ~Private >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay Art Therapy

I so appreciate the Polymer Clay Beginners course and all the comments that are made. A relative had shown me a flower petal bead last summer and when I lost my dad Dec. 10, 2009, I really began to think about making petal beads and after going online and finding your website and course available, just had to take it. Experimented with crushed dried flower petals and the polymer clay and have made bracelets for my two sisters, mother, and myself; also matching earrings. They loved them.  For the bracelets I added Swarovski lead crystal beads and 14k gold plated corrugated beads.  One had sterling silver corrugated beads and Swarovski lead crystal beads. These gifts meant so much to them and also to me. We had a wonderful dad and miss him so much. What a precious way to have keepsakes. Thank you Cindy. ~Teresa-B >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay Surface Textures

Your letter of “Thanksgiving” was very loving, and so touching… To me, it’s always so gracious to be able to pray a prayer of Thanksgiving, for all of our Blessings – my life (after this past September) is what I am Thankful for this year. My summer with my Grandchildren, one of whom is Autistic; the other with Attention Deficit, and my Sweetheart stuck in the middle. She is my budding artist, and we have so much in common (including working in clay). So, I do understand where you are coming from. It sounds like you have a nice life, and I’m very happy for you. I pray that this new year of celebration will grace you with another year of the best. In any event, you are a very nice lady, and karma speaks volumes.  Sincerely. ~Diana-S >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay Bead Making

I have 2 atlas machines and one of them has a motor on it. If I have to run clay through the machine several times I use my motor. One thing I do not like about my motor is that it does not have a reverse on it. For this reason my grandkids only use the machine with hand crank. Which they enjoy using. The only reason I went with a motor is I have fibromyalgia and hand cranking can cause a load of trouble if I do to much. I like both my atlas machines very much and hope they last for a very long time.  I also run my Kato clay though the food processor and also leave a heating pad on my work station while conditioning my clay. Keeping  the area warmer makes it much easier along with the processor. I mostly use premo because of Cindy but I have a lot of Kato so I try to use it up on canes. I do like the Kato better for cane work so will probably purchase more when it is gone even though it is harder to work with. Premo is my all around favorite clay thanks to Cindy introducing me to it. Just a reminder if you have kids working with clay be careful if you use a motor on your pasta machine. Little fingers are precious. ~Peggy-B >> This comment was originally posted here: Motorized Polymer Clay Pasta Machines

Thanks again Jocelyn. He’s not a bad patient either in spite of the pain he is in. He could be a grouchy bear like some I have taken care of. But he always tries not to be. And he always tries to get me something special to say thank you for helping him through these. Not that he has to, but I couldn’t stop him if I tried. The last surgery he had he got me this very nice countertop convection oven just for baking my clay in. This time he bought me the double barrel tumbler I mentioned in another post. And he’s always very supportive of my interest in crafts, even after 29 years! So I’m pretty lucky to have him too. XOXO ~Jamie-H >> This comment was originally posted here: Rubber Stamp Textured Beads

Wow! Beautiful! I think art is one of the most therapeutic things in the world. It frees the mind to play in the right side of the brain where the magic of humanity lives and you can find that so much is possible. Love your pendants! Fabulous. ~Melinda-H >> This comment was originally posted here: Art Therapy Polymer Clay

I am Romanian and moved to Netherlands 5 years ago to study. I discovered polymer clay this year in March and since became addicted. I am married, have a full time job in a technical domain actually, and I use clay as a creative outlet, it helps to fight the daily stress. I am lucky because my husband is very supportive with clay work, his hobby is photography and the pictures I sent you and on the website are made by him. I discovered you and your wonderful lessons early this summer and this event definitely gave a boost to my creative efforts. Only recently, I had the courage to make my clay work public and I am very grateful for the support you offer. The Polymer Clay Tutor is such a warm community and so nice to be in. I was not very active in this community, I admit, but I do read all the blog and all the comments :). I tried everything: watercolor beads, flowers, book beads (these are very lovely) but my all time favorites are the raku beads. You are such an inspiration! … I am only a beginner and am very anxious to hear what the members of this community will say about my work. I mean this community has seen a lot of polymer clay work. So far I created jewelry only for myself and give them away as gifts. Lately, my friends were telling me that I should try to sell them but I am not sure. I would try that I am afraid that I am biased because they were made mostly for myself. So I would appreciate any suggestions to improve my work. With regards from Eindhoven, Netherlands. ~Ileana-B >> This comment was originally posted here: Selling Your Polymer Clay Jewelry

I was laid off last year from a place where I worked for 30 years and with having fibromyalgia finding a job I can do a whole day, 5 days a week is tough.Polymer Clay is something I love to do, and I can do it when I feel good enough, resting in between, or even in the middle of the night during my periods of insomnia. It fits MY schedule! LOL! And everyone here seems so nice and helpful. It’s great! ~Tanya-L >> This comment was originally posted here: How to Make Polymer Clay Beads

May Jesus abundantly bless each one of you. This is my first Christmas without my dear Don. We were married for 43 years and it is truly heart wrenching to be without him. Jackie, I couldn’t agree with you more. Cindy and all of you have helped me to stem the tide of sorrow. When I watch Cindy’s videos – and then put them into practice – I seem to end up in another world – one that is peaceful and serene. I was first introduced to polymer clay not long after Don went to the Lord. Before that I had concentrated on my wire art – and making beanbag frogs. Now I want to make clay frogs and I look forward to combining my talent for wire working with my developing (slowly) talent for clay art. I’m real glad to see Cindy including more wire working, which gives me even more ideas about how to combine the two. I’ve set up my clay ‘station’ at one end of my long kitchen – and now I have Don’s laptop on the counter so that I can follow right along as Cindy teaches. Cindy, I pray for special blessings on you for all you have done for me. I am hoping that I will get to know more of you through this blog – as we learn together. Peace and blessings! ~Carolyn-F >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay Support Group

Thank you for the compliment. I love all your faux raku crackle beads. They look just perfect. I had a lot of problems with them. Sorry to hear about your neck and back pain. We have a lot in common. I had a pinched nerve in my neck. The pain was unbearable, so I had to have neck surgery. They put a plate in my neck about five years ago and since then my neck has been great. I just came home from the hospital about a month ago. I had to have back surgery and then three days later surgery for a blood clot. Another plate in my back. So I feel your pain. I hope all tests are negative. Plus I have fibromyalgia. This site has been a blessing for me. ~Helen-S >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay Bead Giveaway Contest

Hi Cindy, Your video polymer clay basics course is extremely helpful – it’s one thing to read instructions (via magazines and books, and from various websites), but it’s another thing to actually have a kind voice (especially another Canadian!) walking you through the steps. I’m an “in-your-face” kind of person – so learning comes so much easier when I’m able to see what needs to be done, to see the finished product, and hear suggestions along the way. I don’t use a laptop, but I make notes – each and every video has given me a piece of information that I didn’t know (who would have thought to use crayons for colouring! – yes, colouring with a ‘u’ even though my spellchecker doesn’t like it)! I’ve tried my hand at many various crafts over the years – from painting children’s clothes, teaching ceramics in Ottawa, selling my wheat weaving at the Kitchener Farmer’s Market, woodcarving (whoops – arthritis in the hands – couldn’t do that one for long), chainmail jewelry (hands didn’t like that one either) – but when I was introduced to polymer clay, my creative juices began to flow – the sky’s the limit with this product and with you putting me on the right path with your videos, I can see endless possibilities (silly thing to say, but I never even contemplated making buttons!) So, in a nutshell – yes, this is a very beneficial video course! I thank my lucky stars for the day that I happened onto your site! Keep up the Great Work! ~Gail-G >> This comment was originally posted here: Making Polymer Clay Buttons

Thanks for picking me for the “Spot.”  I kept one tribal necklace for myself and will try to send Cindy a good picture now that my pea sized brain has learned new things about Photo Shop images. We did give one of my hearts necklaces to a little girl who’s grandmother died. Her dad says she wears it every day and she drew us the cutest picture on a thank you letter.  That makes it all worthwhile. ~Anna-S >> This comment was originally posted here: Jewelry Consignment Shops

I agree with Lori-F, I can’t wait for Fridays. And just like Lori-F, I am very ill, with no hope to ever recover, and your tuts have become a huge part of my life. Thanks so much for everything. ~Lorraine-C >> This comment was originally posted here: Johnny Jump Up Cane

REGULAR COLOR RECIPE (A): Desert ** B-SERIES COLOR RECIPE (B): Caribbean Coast > Polymer Clay Tutorials Guest List VIDEO: Hammered Metal Leaf Vein Bails With a Decorative Embedded Design

Just wanted everyone to know not only is Cindy a fantastic teacher (as you will all agree) she has now become a household name in our family. Since I joined her course in July all I have talked about polymer clay so to the reason Cindy is so talked about. I have been a smoker for 52 years now that is a long long time so when I watched Cindy at work with all those wonderful gadgets I knew if I stopped smoking I could afford some of them and more fab videos. I haven’t had a cigarette for 3 weeks now but I am the proud owner of an extruder, some tissue blades and lots of beautiful polymer clay, so when I think of cigarettes I now say that will be 4 packs of clay. A great big thank you Cindy because of you I’m a NON SMOKER. ~Josie-T >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay Canes

June, these are wonderful! I am an occupational therapist and especially interested in collecting stories such as yours, because this is what my field is all about! You found a passion that turned a negative life experience into physical healing AND a new found interest. I agree with Cindy that polymer claying can help with physical healing and stress management and an important part of healing is the support and company of others. I think Cindy has created a community that meets so many needs…learning and fellowship. Thank you for sharing your story,and to Cindy for creating this lovely space for us to meet. ~Sue-W >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay Art Therapy – Muscle Shoulder Injury

I have been working with clay for about two months and find it very relaxing. I own a home daycare and need something like this to relax. I used to work with clay back in school and didn’t realize how much I missed it until I purchased some. I am glad that I have ran across your site. ~Brendan-M >> This comment was originally posted here: Conditioning Polymer Clay

I can’t tell you how this helped me! Cindy L., you have created a world to which all of us can come to and relieve stress, become a better person, appreciate art, and a multitude of other good things. I can’t always comment on the blog, but I read constantly, each time I get a chance. Thank you from all of us who benefit from your hard work and dedication! ~Debi-S >> This comment was originally posted here: Mother Daughter Story

Ileana, your work is fabulous!!! I love the simplicity of your necklaces and your beads are exquisite. Selling your work will give you a whole new zest for your craft and so much confidence… you definitely need to do that. I also work in a high stress field and polymer clay has served as my stress relief and my creative outlet. It’s fabulous isn’t it?! ~Melinda-H >> This comment was originally posted here: Making Polymer Clay Jewelry

I am so glad I found this site. My oldest son recently passed away and someone had given me a bracelet and earrings made out of his flowers. I love them and where them just about everywhere. A friend of mine is wanting a bracelet for her daughter made out of the bridal flowers. I was looking for a website of someone locally that made them. I may now consider doing this myself. Thank you. ~Marie-K >> This comment was originally posted here: Keepsake Jewelry

Hi Cindy, I know I don’t usually post a lot but I am one of your biggest fans. I have learned so much from your videos. Recently my husband had noticed how much better my work was and he took a lot of the pieces to work to show the girls in the office. They loved them and he came home with only a couple left, He had sold the others. He also brought back orders for quite a few other things. He was my biggest fan. He would come home every day curious to see what I had done. Well he suddenly became ill with what we thought was the flu. By the time he went to the Doctor he had pneumonia. Two days later on September the 10th, 2009 the love of my life passed away. The reason I am sharing my story is that because of your videos and his confidence in me I hope that I can begin to sell my jewelry again. I had to move from NJ back to my home in Alabama where we are from. We were in NJ working for an Energy company. So now I have my studio finally set back up and I have been trying to get the motivation to get back started with it. It’s hard because like I said he was my biggest fan. I know in my heart that he would want me to do it. So I just wanted to thank you for the absolutely wonderful job that you do, and hopefully I will continue on what my husband knew in his heart that I could do. Thanks, ~Jackie-N >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay Tribute

Jackie – as a teenager I lost my grandparents and my mother, then my father, then my guardian – all in the space of 5 years.   However, I believe that the loss in my life was for a purpose and it made me the strong person I am.  I think of them still and now am a Life Coach who enables others to recognize that they can celebrate the lives of their loved ones – and what better way to do it than by creating more and more beautiful pieces of jewelery knowing how Vance could well be watching and, as your best friend who always tells you the truth, will continue to admire your work and encourage you to do more and more. ~Penny-V >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay Jewelry

A person very close to me has been imprisoned, I suffer from depression and I am stressed beyond capacity on many levels. I was looking for low cost art therapy of some sort for myself and my son where I live and came across this article which I find very interesting. ~Angel-F >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay Art Therapy

Cindy and Doug, Your combined efforts and products marked a turning point for me to the better as a major life improvement. I cannot thank both of you enough and am in your debt. It means the world to me that you both are so professional, caring and supportive. I wish you both the very best that life has to offer. May your business and reputations prosper and grow with daily blessings from me. Every day, each morning, I cannot wait to rise, grab a coffee, and read the latest blog and all the comments. It has been a long time since I have felt that type of motivation and excitement. Each daily blog post, comment and video get better and better, and it is so amazing and enjoyable to watch and participate! I especially appreciate the fact that you both strive so hard to always give credit to those whose ideas and techniques you choose to modify and transform as well. Every link on your site is an adventure, LOL! I wish you both and Willow and Fisher a wonderful Christmas season and a fabulous 2010! Mine will be because of you all. Fondly always, ~Jocelyn-C >> This comment was originally posted here: Handmade Beaded Jewelry

Dear Cindy, I don’t know if this idea will help any of your clayers that like me that have arthritic hands. My husband who I must say is very supportive, thinks I am a little crazy but this works. The pictures  will show you I am make do with what I have a piece of broom handle and a plastic cotton reel I will buy a piece of plastic pipe when I go to town (32 miles round trip) so only once a week for me. If anyone has something better I would love to here. I am a very new member but already have learned so much A massive thank you all. ~Ritzs >> This comment was originally posted here: Clay Extruder

Thanks so much for being patient with me, I did get it working and watched the videos in Vol-1. I will try to make the lentil beads, it looks easy but, I will confess I will be purchasing some canes from Etsy. I do alot of Breast Cancer Jewelry and I wanted a cool bead to work with. ~Mary-N >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay Canes

Hi Cindy. I told ya I’d be lurking didnt I? LOL! Anyhoo, have I ever burned any clay? Oh boy, you betcha!! A loooong long time ago, I was making some faux ivory/bone beads and I worked for hours texturing and getting them all just right. Then I popped them in my nice “new” oven, set my timer, and went off to do other things. Well to make a long story short, my timer never got a chance to go off because the cloud of smoke in my kitchen called me first. Whooo what a stink! I pulled the tray out quick and dashed them outside and spent 2 hours airing out my house. That taught me to never trust an oven you havent tested first. Then I inspected the beads and found a strange result. Only one side had really burned badly. All rough and charred looking and very dark brown. But the side facing down to the tray had only turned a darker ivory color with no bubbling. And the pattern of texturing could be seen all around the bead still, even on the burned side. To me they looked very much like carved bone that had been in a fire. Really old and kind of mysterious. So I kept them and made a bracelet that still gets me comments on what they are and where I got them. Not a technique I would recommend repeating though. I too have COPD and asthma, and it was not a good thing to experience at all. Now I have a countertop convection oven dedicated to clay only, and the temp stays right where I set it. Plus I always use an oven thermometer since that day. XOXO ~Jamie-H >> This comment was originally posted here: Baking Sculpey Clay

Yeahhhhhhhhh,,,, I got to see it [Teardrop blend video] finally,,,, all I had to do was shut down and reboot,,,, lol.lol.. don’t know why,, but it worked,,, I am new to this clay and I am enjoying it so much,, being that I am on total disability it really helps me make my day go by fast,,, sometimes too fast… lol.lol. ~Bre-B >> This comment was originally posted here: Quickest Skinner Blend

I’m really enjoying the videos and the blog, feel like I’ve signed up for a bit of info and instead have received a wealth of knowledge in return. With the ideas generated by the members (such a supportive bunch); of course everything you’re offering from basic practical tips to beautiful, current techniques – I’m truly inspired and feel so fortunate to have come across your site. My husband has been battling ALS for several years now so unfortunately creative projects have been slowly pushed aside. I find it’s become difficult to start anything because of the time needed to invest in and complete projects. Our situation now doesn’t allow a lot of time for that. So, I thought polymer clay, beading and jewelry making might be a good way to create (even if it’s a little at a time). It’s been a great outlet so far, and I haven’t even played with clay yet. I’ve had a bit of experience a few years back and loved it. Recently it’s been supply buying; reading and ideas galore…quickly written down and sketched out on paper so I won’t forget. Soon I’ll be able to try out the things I’ve learned and written down, that’s when the real fun begins and I learn even more from my mistakes! Thanks again for the wonderful teaching tool you’ve created. You share your knowledge in such a professional, yet warm way – the care you take in what you offer your members is highlighted through your sense of detail and attention given to every inquiry. This has been just what I needed, what a great experience! Bye for now. ~Danette-K >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay

Tiffany – I have fibromyalgia and my hands and wrists both don’t mix well with sanding. I just recently bought a tumbler and I don’t think it takes the place of sanding by hand but it does cut down on how much you have to do. If you want a really high shine I at least feel you need to do a little hand sanding after you run the beads through the tumbler. I myself just use 600 and 800 grit sometimes 1000 but it will take a lot less sanding time and finish with buffing then SHABAM. So to me it was worth the tumbler. If you don’t want the super shine finish you can do with just tumbling. My opinion is that you will be happy if you buy the tumbler and save on your hands, I sure was. ~Peggy-B >> This comment was originally posted here: Making Faux Turquoise Beads

Wow Alexa, what lovely pieces! I especially like the butterfly, it’s beautiful.   —   I’m currently suffering from clinical depression. I’ve had depression before which was much worse and I worked hard to overcome it and got better, so I know I can beat this depression too, it will just take some time.   —   I also have fibromyalgia which makes me constantly tired and affects my memory and concentration, disturbs my sleep patterns and gives me muscle pain (I’m always at best uncomfortable). I know I’m not as bad as some people, but I’m not able to work at the moment, even part-time.   —   Claying is something I can do, especially since I got a pasta machine so I don’t hurt my hands conditioning clay, and a rock tumbler for sanding. It’s physically easy and my lack of concentration doesn’t seem to matter – I think creative stuff uses a different part of the brain to remembering to clean the bathroom or pick up milk at the shop!   —   When you have any kind of disability I think it’s important to find something you can do, something to give you that sense of achievement, because it’s easy to just think you can’t do anything at all. ~Silverleaf >> This comment was originally posted here: Disabilities, Polymer Clay Therapy

After my husband died in April, I thought my creativity died with him.  Then I was introduced to polymer clay and I’m off and running again.  Cindy’s videos are helping me so much in learning this new art form.  Thanks, Cindy, for your inspiration! ~Carolyn-F >> This comment was originally posted here: Making Polymer Clay and Wire Jewelry

Finally, a few minutes at my computer. Carolyn, I am deeply touched by your story and send warmest wishes for continued healing. Like Jackie, your art will provide a powerful catalyst to continue moving forward through your grief and I hope we here at the site can serve as continued support, too. Joyce, to you I say, thank God that your daughter survived her harrowing experience. What a blessing indeed!  I’m not sure I have a remarkable favorite story. I will share that as gifts for my husband’s staff this year I opted to create hand-made items by covering plain glass ornaments using five different techniques I learned from Cindy. I think I did Cindy proud-they turned out very pretty, each one different and the recipients absolutely loved them. They were some of the most meaningful gifts I gave this year, and I think it was partly because they represented how much I have grown from Cindy’s teaching and from my association with all who are part of this site family. I wish each of you joy in the coming year. ~Elizabeth-S >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay Art Therapy

I would love to join the contest to win Cindy’s beads. I just got home from the hospital  after eight days of a double surgery. One was for a plate in my lower back and back in for a blood clot in my leg. I have a lot of reading to catch up on, but I know I can do it, because I love everything about this site. Cindy, all the friendly girls, and all the great things to learn. Well back to reading. Honey… West Palm Beach, Fl. ~Helen-S >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay, Recovering From Surgery

REGULAR COLOR RECIPE (A): Salmon Pearls ** B-SERIES COLOR RECIPE (B): Ice Cave > Polymer Clay Tutorials Guest List VIDEO: Using an Extruder Gun to Make a Geometric Design, Tribal Cane

Hi Cindy….Wow you’re fast like lightning!!!! You answered my problem email almost immediately. How do you do all this? Your husband must really be a great help to you. I have been all over the internet but your site is the very, very, best!!! Your reply was a right on the button. I entered  and played all videos with no problem. You are the greatest!!! But even more than that. I could listen to your voice all day but my husband won’t let me. I have two rooms for crafts but can’t get either one organized. The clay room is in the sun room but I think its too hot for clay. The front room is for sewing  and everything else. I just lost about 20 African Violets because I can’t keep up with everything. I’m 62 years old and have had chronic back pain for years, fibromyalgia and chronic depression. Clay is the only thing that takes my mind off of everything. ENOUGH!!!! Please continue the exciting way you teach. ~Helen >> This comment was originally posted here: How To Make Mobius Beads

Hi Cindy. I’ve been following your blog for a while now.  I haven’t made much with polymer clay, but I have learned a lot and have had fun playing. I’m a crocheter mostly.  I have carpal tunnel and use a sponge to make the hook fatter so I can continue to crochet.  A few weeks ago I broke my favorite hook (just snapped right off near the top of the sponge). I couldn’t find that size locally. I had to order online. (I ordered 2 this time).  In order to continue crocheting, I used polymer clay to put my crochet hook back together.  It was just a quick fix and it’s really ugly, but it may be something I expand into in the future. Thanks to you and your blog, I was able to continue to crochet while waiting for my new hooks to arrive. Crocheting keeps my hands busy and keeps me calm a lot, as well as passing the time.  I’m a flight attendant, so I have lots of down time on planes, in airports, and in hotel rooms. ~Joyce >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay Tools

I encounter the same problem here in the US! I am Russian-American and work as an RN in a adult day health center that caters to elderly emigrant Russian Jews. A group of the ladies have become what I affectionately call my “bead-groupies” and are always checking to see what design jewelry I am wearing for that day. (Need to make more stuff! ;) I find it hard to explain to them that this is clay (“gleena”) in Russian because that means pottery clay. Saying it is “plastic” does connote a “tackiness” and the concept of millefiori really eludes them – they are convinced my stuff is painted! Maybe the Russian artists can call it “polimeriya”? ~Maria >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay In Russia

I really appreciate the videos and all I am learning. I just had surgery and will begin the practical phase next week. So far I have just watched and read and amassed tools and clay. Once my husband picks up a 12×12 ceramic tile I will be on my way. I have seen someone make a tree face out of the clay and although I begin this craft wanting to make beads, I can see there is a plethera of things you can do with it. I am truly looking forward to getting started. I purposefully did not start so that I could use it as a distraction during my recovery. Your videos have been very very helpful. ~Lani >> This comment was originally posted here: Slicing Polymer Clay Canes

Without the food processor my time for clay would be very limited as Arthritis visits often and without the pasta machine there would be no level pieces of clay to cut from so being very new to polymer clay these items are really necessary. I think I’ll really enjoy my next purchase which will be the Makins Professional Clay Extruder and that may become a favorite. Love this new hobby and your lessons and videos Cindy. ~JoyceF >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay Tools

I love kato clay. It’s strong and bakes well. I hate conditioning clay so I used the softer clays and sandwich kato inside. Usually the crumbling happens inside of the softer clays. By the second or third pass the clay conditions well. I add a little bit of kato at a time. I have arthritis so I don’t condition by hand, my pasta machine does it all. I tried liquid polyclay on it but it was too sticky for me. Hobby Lobby is my supplier for clay, all brands go on sale at .99 every couple of months. If I need clay on an off month I use the 40% off coupon that they have available every 2 to 3 weeks. I can’t ever remember paying full price for clay. I also use the coupon for the larger size bricks. I love the makins clay extruder (40% off) and all your tutorials. THANKS!!! ~Sandra >> This comment was originally posted here: Fimo Clay, Premo, Sculpey

I am fairly new to this chat thing but I love your site. It has given me so much help. Like all of you I am polyclay mad. Made tons of beads and sold some in the local craft shop, but I live in the UK or at least Wales. My children say out in the middle of nowhere.  My question is I have just ordered a beach tumbler as the postage for the Lortone was too expensive. It has a plastic barrel. Is that OK? And what would be river rock in the UK. Is it the same as in the US? I have never seen any to know what it looks like. I am trying to help my pore arthritic fingers with the small beads. ~Ritzs >> This comment was originally posted here: Rock Tumblers for Polishing Polymer Clay

I have a presentation to give in a few days on how using creativity to outsource stress may be very effective. Since my presentation is on creativity I decided to buy some clay to give out to the students to use in class while I present. When I came across this page I was so happy to find that using clay really helps people cope with stress. I will be quoting from this site and sending people here if they are interested. Also I was wondering if there is a certain clay you need for this to be effective of if any clay will suffice? ~Annamarie >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay Art Therapy

The colors seem to flow together when I look at them differently now. It.s so amazing. Thank you. Hopefully I am going to become a full member when I can afford the membership. I am still bouncing back from paying for cancer treatment (no insurance) and then no income, ( surprise separation) I am not fishing for pity so please. I feel very blessed to be here. The hard times make the good times so much sweeter. Thank you Cindy for passing your knowledge on and for all the inspiration you give everyone. God bless. ~Lisa >> This comment was originally posted here: Color Inspiration for Polymer Clay Jewelry

A very timely article for me as I was thinking about just this purchase.  I do not fall into any of the the above categories and absolutely do not run enough clay through my machine to justify it.  Besides, my biceps is getting pretty muscular from the cranking.  Only problem is I tend to crank with only my right hand so I am becoming  a bit lopsided. I am having problem with my neck (I am prone to neck strain) because of the position of my machine; it was off to the side and too far from where I was sitting.  So a  reorganization of my work area (YEAH !!) solved that problem.  I was at a workshop where the instructed suggested we stand over the machine while processing clay because working to the side had caused her back problems.   Hey, that will give my legs some exercise too. ~Anna >> This comment was originally posted here: Pasta Machine Motor

Hi all. Hope everyone had a great holiday weekend. I know we did. Yay summer! Anyhoo, I hope everyone can use this little tip. But I can’t claim mad scientist rights to it. I saw it posted on another blog some time ago, just cant remember now which one it was, and have been using it since then on the rare occasions I have real silver to work with. I love that its green too, and no more stinky fumes from Liver of Sulfur. When you have breathing issues like I do with COPD, fumes are the enemy. Even perfume can cause me grief. So this is a definite winner in my book, and I’m just glad I could share it.  XOXO ~Jaime >> This comment was originally posted here: Hammered Copper Findings

Dear Cindy ~ I love your site! How do I get the newsletter? I have never done poly clay, but am extremely interested. I have been mainly a visual artist and a beader. I’m home bound, so I’m looking for ways to expand my horizons that I can do at home. Sincerely ~Linda >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay Videos

I love the handmade look as well, but I also use a roller somtimes. There are certain “looks” that I feel need a uniform bead shape/size to pull off. Oddly enough, I never make round beads with my roller – only oval or bicone. I always prefer to do round beads by hand. One of the big reasons I got into polymer clay is the tactile aspect of the medium – rolling and shaping by hand is always cathartic and for me is usually the way to go. ~Jackie >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay Beads

I truly enjoy your methods of teaching immensely, and you are so (NOT) intimidating as you bring a person through step by step. This is a Blessing in disguise to a majority of us, especially when you are my age (64).  Thank you for your Patience, and also for your Great Work!!!! Your beads are gorgeous, and have to try some marbling too. They make gorgeous round disks!  Will have to do some experimenting with my clay, and check around for some of the goodies you were using.  For myself, being an artist is such a Blessing, and it has encouraged me through some difficult times. It is great therapy!! Thanks again!! ~DianaQM >> This comment was received via email.

REGULAR COLOR RECIPE (A): Orange Lipstick ** B-SERIES COLOR RECIPE (B): Peaceful Garden > Polymer Clay Tutorials Guest List VIDEO: Making a Butterfly Wing Pendant Using a Cutter and Texture Plate

Love the site…now a library member, especially now that I am layed off from my job.  Hoping for work soon to support my polymer clay habit… it has been very therapeutic. Or maybe sell a few beads now that I am getting better at the canes. :) ~Jackie >> This comment was originally posted here: Making Polymer Clay Canes

Wow cindy! I went to the clay table and tried it right out. I love the Skinner blend but it always took so long to do it and with my arthritic hands I would end up in pain before I was even finished. This one is so much faster and easier, thank you so much for sharing it with us. I will always think of, and refer this one as the “Leitz blend. Much mahalo from Hawaii. ~Norieta >> This comment was originally posted here: Lietz Teardrop Method for Color Blending Polymer Clay

I have a 14 year old Pomeranian with cushing’s disease. It is terminal for her and I’m just trying to keep her as happy as possible until her time. I am planning to cut some of her hair for a pendant inclusion. I had seen this book before and I thought it was a wonderful idea. Thanks for sharing it. ~Kim >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay Memorial Jewelry

I’m thrilled to have found your course! I had played with polymer clay for a short time a few years ago but set it aside. Your course has helped to ignite a passion, and I’m very grateful for the work you put into it, along with your blog and your library.

You see, I had a stroke in 2001. I’m okay physically, but the depression can really get in the way. One day in February was unusually warm, and I decided to go out and run a few errands (which is sometimes difficult when depression rears its head). I stopped by our local Barnes and Noble to have a cup of coffee at the café, and of course I had to find a magazine to read while enjoying the coffee. PolymerCAFE jumped out at me. Reading it caused me to feel something I hadn’t experienced in a long time – enjoyment! When I got home, I googled polymer clay, and found your course.  Cindy, I’m hooked! I’m a rank amateur, but the passion is there.

This feeling – being passionate about something – is one I haven’t experienced in many years, and your work has played a big part. I simply cannot thank you enough. Serendipity is always such a wonderful surprise, and that’s what happened – the warm weather, the magazine, your course. I never expected any of them, but together they have set me on a course that I’m thoroughly enjoying.

What I love about your course (and your library videos) is your wonderful down-to-earth, chatting-with-a-friend attitude. Your depth of knowledge comes through, but it’s in a quiet way that I appreciate. It leaves me feeling encouraged, not intimidated (as many experts often make me feel). Thank you so much for being there! ~Linda >> This comment was received via email.

Hi Cindy, I enjoy making both kinds. But I think my favorite would be “creating for the challenge”. I find when depression hits me, just simple beads helps me to focus my energy much more quickly and then I can get more creative and tackle the more challenging types of clay work I enjoy. ~Adrienne >> This comment was originally posted here: Heart Shaped Beads

Hi Cindy, I’m laid up with shoulder surgery and got interested in silverware art etc. You got my attention about polymer clay can you give me some tips on where to buy and how to use this stuff? ~Dave >> This comment was originally posted here: Starter Polymer Clay Colors

On the other side of the argument, I LOVE my motor and in fact, have more than one, LOL.  The noise doesn’t bother anybody at my house.  When I first got it, it was because I had had shoulder surgery, so I had an excuse for the first one, LOL.  Now I’m just spoiled. Plus, I am a caner and go through A LOT of clay. Although it still doesn’t bother me to use the crank, either, I just prefer the motor.  When we have a class or I have people over for a clay day, I choose not to use the motor, but when it’s just me, I use the motor exclusively, I wouldn’t want to be without it.  My second one is because I have a “mini studio” in our Fifth Wheel trailer for taking clay on vacation with me and my DH spoils me by not making me lug all the equipment back and forth. Hugs. ~Sue >> This comment was originally posted here: Polymer Clay Pasta Machine Motors

Hi again, I commented earlier when I just joined at how very much I appreciated Cindy and now her husband at all the help she gave me with some problems I was having with pay pal when first becoming a member. This happened approximately 2 wks ago. Since I have ordered several of the back issues, and the begginers many videos. At first I thought the begginers might be just repeat of what I already knew “NOT” Much much more thanks to Cindy’s way with both polymer clay and teaching. You are a natural. I have learned so much more and I am constantly going back and re-watching videos picking up more even the 2nd time around. The only complaint I have is against myself for not doing this the moment I first heard about CIndy. I belong to a Polymer Clay guild due to health am unable to attend meetings but enjoy the blog information and chatting back and forth with members. Nobody puts anyone down. I also belong to other Internet sites with polymer clay free and paid for info. I love them all but none have come close to the information and suggestions that Cindy puts out there. I just can not imagine someone thinking she doen’t give this her all. You can tell she loves her work. Ask her and she will answer. Don’t ask her and she still answers. Polymer Clay brings out great things in many people. Super things in Cindy. I honestly think she is one of the best teachers I have ever been blessed enough to come across. I would love the chance to spend a few days in the shawdows of Cindy and her clay. If you ever hold Personal classes I want to be one of the first to know. If possible I am already there. THANK YOU CINDY AND YOUR HUBBY TOO!! Eager for more. ~Peggy >> This comment was originally posted here: Beads and Beading and Polymer Clay

Do you have an idea for displaying necklaces? This would help me so much–I’m just starting out with jewelry at craft shows & could use all the help I can get. I love the idea of the earring cards. I’m disabled and only do one show a year, but work all year towards it. Thankx. ~DeBraden >> This comment was originally posted here: Selling Handmade Polymer Clay Jewelry

REGULAR COLOR RECIPE (A): Parsley ** BONUS COLOR RECIPE (B): Dusty Sky > Polymer Clay Tutorials Guest List VIDEO: Make Pillow Beads with Either Polymer Clay Fabric Or Cane Slices

Good morning Cindy. I just wanted to say thank you for your website and videos. The website is easy to navigate and the free videos have been great. I am going to order the course as soon as I finish this email to you. I have been crafting for years and since HGTV has changed their craft show format, I look to the internet for more instructional sites. I am chronically ill ( for 21yrs. now) so it is hard for me to attend a class. People like you make it possible for me to enjoy doing crafts that I might otherwise not get to do. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and using your great teaching skills with others. God bless you. Sincerely, ~Zoe @ Comment Received Via Email

It has been a long time since I have wrote. I’ve been out of commission for a while due to back surgery of which I wouldn’t wish on my worst enemy. I am on the mend and slowly getting BACK (pardon the pun) to my clay work. Your videos are so informative and love the articles. I have been back to California to teach more family members and had the privledge to show the film editor of my son Aarons’s new movie that will be coming out in the near future. Because of your videos, I have gainded much knowledge and I look forward to much more teaching material. Keep up the good work. ~Christine @ Making Jewelry

REGULAR COLOR RECIPE (A): Purple Wine ** BONUS COLOR RECIPE (B): New Copper >> Polymer Clay Tutorials Guest List VIDEO: How To Sew Your Own Buffing Wheels For a Polymer Clay Dremel Tool

Thanks for the videos! I’ve been making polymer clay canes for 10 months now, making candle holders for beeswax candles I’ve been making. I finally figured out how to make the candle holders. When I used slices put together they broke – but I didn’t like the slices on top of a solid piece. This weekend I tried mixing white with a leftover flower cane, so the same colors were in there for a solid base, and just put the beautiful flower cane around the edge. It’s sturdy and beautiful! (I drape it over an overturned bowl to bake it.) I would never have started making candles, and then learning how to make polymer clay canes for candle holders, without having gone through stage III (out of IV) thyroid cancer. You never know what is in store for you or who you will meet. Thanks so much for making the videos! ~Betsy @ How To Make Polymer Clay Canes

My sister has cerebral palsy and this is a wonderful tip for me to help her condition the clay more easily. She’s also deaf and mentally handicapped so arts and crafts are a way for her to express herself creatively. So thank you for the wonderfully helpful tip!!! ~Abby @ Techniques For Softening Polymer Clay

REGULAR COLOR RECIPE (A): Sunflower Leaf (dark) ** BONUS COLOR RECIPE (B): True Gold >> Polymer Clay Tutorials Guest List VIDEO: Step By Step Instructions For Learning the Mokume Gane Technique