How to Make Polymer Clay Beads: 35 step-by-step projects for beautiful beads and jewellery

Hand-made jewelry is always in style. So why not start the process from scratch and make your own beads?This beautifully illustrated book, packed with clear step-by-step instructions, will show you how. Polymer clay is the material of choice and you will learn how to use free-form techniques and bead-rolling tools to create several styles. Unusual shapes, sculpted effects, simulations of semi-precious stones, photo-image transfers, and use of glitter and organic material mean the beads you make will be unique. And with practice, they will look professionally hand-crafted. All the tools you will need are listed, and finishing techniques, such as sanding, buffing, and sealing, are described. You will also find detailed instructions on how to use your own work to create stylish and individual pieces of jewelry, including necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. Basic jewelry-making techniques, such as stringing and fixing clasps, lead on to assembling all the components in designs and styles ranging from contemporary and elegant, to simple and just plain fun. The finished pieces incorporate a whole variety of mixed media to enhance the look of your beads. Technique based, this book is also full of useful information—including a list of suppliers—and will be invaluable to anyone taking up this rewarding and affordable craft. Beginners and more advanced practitioners alike will find both practical advice and inspiration.