Polymer Clay Beads: Techniques, Projects, Inspiration

by Grant Diffendaffer

Twenty different crafting methods—countless breathtaking beads, all made from easy to work with polymer clay! The varied techniques in this comprehensive skill-building book—many of which have never before been published—range from hand-formed tubes, spheres, wedges, teardrops, and baguettes to traditional mokume gane with fantastic layered effects. Add mica clay to create iridescent “ghost image” beads. Construct veneered pillow beads. Carve beads, press-mold them, or even use a cookie-cutter to get an array of fabulous shapes. Turn and form the bead on an extremely affordable craft lathe. Close-up photos show every step in the process, as well as the completed beads; some also appear as part of a finished piece of jewelry for inspiration. 

Genres: Crafts

144 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2008

Reviews

[Hope · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an excellent resource for advanced polymer clay work. It's beautiful inspiration for a beginner. It does explain the basics, you need to be pretty comfortable with the basics before tackling the projects in this book. Mind you, with this book as a guide, you'll likely produce some outstanding work!

[Cami · Rating 3 out of 5]

This has a lot of the post-bead finishing, which I do appreciate.
It also introduces (to me) the idea of using a lathe and mandrels for polymer clay.
The book and the author's bead designs were interesting.

[Mortira · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bead artists and jewelry designers alike will enjoy the gorgeous beads featured in this book. Although there is a section on polymer clay basics, the techniques and projects are rather advanced. I would only recommend this title for experienced smooshers.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not for beginners, but some fab techniquest - one day I'll get around to trying some of them.

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautiful creative beads. Very advanced designs.