The May 2009 issue of AJ features a project by polymer clay artist, Melanie West, whose work is a tour de force of form and color. Her project teaches readers how to "Craft a Seamless Polymer Cuff." The secret? An aluminum cuff blank (which she sells on her Web site). Subscribers, you can click here to learn how to make your own cuff blank; or if you like gizmos, read our review of "Cindy's Bender," a product that easily shapes a strip of metal into a cuff shape.
In addition to West's line of cuff styles, she creates incredible nudibranch-inspired (think sea slug) "Bio Bangles" like the one pictured to the left! Her experiments along this theme are inspiring.
Speaking of inspiring, I want to let you know about the upcoming International Polymer Clay Association (IPCA, formerly the National Polymer Clay Guild) Retreat this summer near Chicago. The IPCA Web site has details. I'll be attending the Retreat and look forward to connecting with old friends and making new ones. I'm sure I'll see lots of great work. Be sure to look for me if you're planning on being there! Of course, you can always chat and share images of your work with other polymer clay enthusiasts on our forum.
Cheers, :) Jill