Product Description
You can achieve great results with polymer clay! With the50+ techniques in this book, you can create polymer clay buttons orboxes or anything in between. Starting with the very basics (such asrolling, baking and gluing), Sue then moves on to more advancedmethods: marbling, texturing, millefiori, bead-making, faux-stoneeffects and more. Feature spreads show exciting ways to combinetechniques. You'll find this a comprehensive guide to the medium,complete with everything from a listing of necessary tools andmaterials to inspiring examples of polymer clay art.Amazon.com Review
It's hard to imagine a material more versatile than polymer clay. What other medium yields perfectly convincing simulations of everything from marble, wood, ivory, and jade to metal, porcelain, mosaic, enamel, and semiprecious stones--not to mention flowers, food, and sculptural forms? With a thoroughness rarely found in other books on the subject, Sue Heaser explains all of these methods and more, supplementing her excellent instructions with good, clear photos. Although she includes a number of full step-by-step projects, this is primarily a techniques-driven presentation. Beginning with the preliminaries of materials, preparation, color mixing, baking, and other basics, Heaser then moves on to clay manipulation (beads, millefiori, molds, vessels, frames, flowers), sculpting (simple animals, faces, armatured figures), embellished treatments (stamping, painting, metallic effects, image transfers), and simulations (stones, antique effects, wood, miniatures). Chapter-opening spreads showcase exquisite works by a variety of polymer clay artists, and a helpful appendix compares the handling properties of all the leading polymer clay brands. Beginners will most likely be more comfortable with a more project-oriented approach, but anyone already bitten by the polymer clay bug will find this an essential idea book. --Amy Handy ... Read more

Customer Reviews (44)

Outstanding intro
I've never used polymer clay before, so I was looking for a book with easy-to-read directions for basic techniques. This profusely illustrated reference blew the doors off my expectations. It shows clear, step by step directions for more techniqes than I knew to ask for, as well as helpful hints for all the more obvious-seeming manipulations. Different techniques require different tools, so you can start with just a few basic ones and add more gadgets as you broaden out into more ways of using the material. Of course you can always improvise instead of using store-bought tools, and this offer plenty of suggestions along those lines, too.

The best way to start any craft is with a patient mentor. Lacking that, this book looks like the next best way to get started with polymer clay.

-- wiredweird

Good overview of what can be done with Polymer clay
This book is an excellent overview of what can be done with polymer clay.It has lots of ideas and shows a few techniques from the 5000 ft. level.It was my "gateway" into polymer clay.As my interests with clay evolve, I have invested in books that are more specific to my interest (it's a very versatile material) but this is an excellent starter book.

Underlined from beginning to end
I have hundreds of craft books in my hobby areas of sewing, photography, and jewelry making. I read them all, carefully, and with a pen in hand. I circle photos of projects I might like to try, underline key points, and write occasional comments, like "cool!" "try this!" or "amazing!". Well, I just had to drop by Amazon and write this review because I'm halfway through this book, and it is completely covered in ink. I've underlined half of every paragraph! I can't believe how much useful information the author was able to pack into limited space. Each page is a masterpiece, describing one particular technique, with each building on the next. If you have a friend who is in a funk, bring her some polymer clay and a cookie cutter and try the simple millefiori technique on page 34. It is impossible not to be delighted.

One of the Best!
This book is one of the best books ever on polymer clay! I have been a clayer for three years, and have taken a lot of classes and read a lot of books and have come up with some fun techniques on my own... but I still refer to this book frequently (to remind myself of some technique or review a new one I'm lerning or simply for inspriation and/or to get my creative juices flowing). For new clayers or old pros, there is a lot to be learned from this book!

Perfect first book for polymer users
I got into polymer knowing nothing. This book gives a wonderful overall look at what tools you need and what you can do with the clay. As a first learning book I think it is great. ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (21)

THIS BOOK IS WONDERFUL!
This book is worth every penny. It has good instructions and beautiful pictures. Makes you want to break out your clay and get creative right now. You won't be sorry you bought this book. Go for it!

Great book on surface techniques
Lisa Pavelka begins her book with a disclaimer. That given all the possibilities of polymer clay, it's impossible to write a truly complete book about it.
What she does try to do in this book is to provide instruction for a lot of the techniques used in working with polymer clay in an easily understandable format with lots of photos. She reassures people new to the medium through out that getting professional results happens quickly with practice.
It looks a little intimidating for an absolute beginner, don't be intimidated. If polymer clay is something you've been interested in working with, this book is an excellent introduction to many of the things that can be done with it. The focus of the book is on embellishment rather than sculpting and the techniques can used to make truly impressive beads, focals and cabochons for beading.
She starts with an introduction to the medium, a brief history, the types of clay available,color basics, making color chip charts, the sorts of tools you'll be using and improvising with and how to handle, cure and store clay.
After that you get into the playing with clay parts of the book. Starting with the Skinner blend and the sorts of canes and techniques you can do with that. Each chapter covers a different technique, and how it can be used in application. Millefiori, image transfers, mokume gane and many other techniques. There are a bunch of faux effects so you can learn how to make an impressive simulation of wood veneer inlays, ivory, cinnabar or one of my favorites, dichroic glass effects.
The last part of the book has a few projects that can be stepping stones to your own creations, a gorgeous gallery that shows how many fine jewelry and art techniques can be done with polymer clay, and a troubleshooting section.
I really like this book, and it will have a permanent place in my polymer clay books.

A great resource
The Complete Book of Polymer Clay is a valuable resource for anyone interested in working with Polymer Clay.Informative for beginners as well as those more experienced, I found this a fine addition to my craft library.It proved invaluable in helping me to reacquaint myself with using this highly popular product.With a wide variety of projects suitable to all levels of experience and numerous high quality photographs, you won't be disappointed.

Her chapters on image transfers and stamping gave me ideas to ponder for future gifts.I cannot recommend this book enough.If you want to learn the art of Polymer Clay, Lisa Pavelka is a great teacher.

Fantastic Adventure !

What a fantastic gift! I have all of Lisa's books and this one is the latest addition to my library.I think it is a great book for beginners and also for intermediate polymer clay enthusiasts.
I am receiving so much enjoyment from the information in the book. I have read it cover to cover, and then some. It is not just a book of techniques and applications.Lisa's instructions are very clear and easy to follow.I particuliarly am enjoying the information about the history behind a particuliar technique, like Mokume Gane.As well as the variety of options for such techniques as the Skinner Blend, Mokume Gane and Mica Shift.
Yesterday, I followed the directions under Junk Canes.It was like having the author alongside of me. I am very pleased with my cane.Next, I need to decide what I am going to make with it.
I think my next project will be something with the Sutton Slice.
So many techniques, so many choices!

The Complete Book of Polymer Clay

I can't say enough about Lisa's latest book.I have many polymer clay instructional manuals, including two of Lisa's prior books.If I had received this book first, I wouldnt have needed the others!

I was inspired to make some things I would never have attempted before and I am so pleased with the results.In fact, I was so enthusiastic about these projects that I agreed to present a class for our County Extension Homemaker's group.None of the students had ever worked with polyclay, but they were all thrilled with their results.A mother and daughter were so excited that after the class they headed to Michaels Craft store to buy equipment and supplies so that they could keep going.

Lisa is the "Queen" of polymer clay.I can't wait to get started on some of the other projects. ... Read more

Product Description
Lindly Haunani and Maggie Maggio are renowned for their courses and workshops on color as well as for their outstanding polymer clay work. In this book, they offer instruction and inspiration that focuses on polymer clay as a learning tool that readers can use to explore their own color instincts and preferences and develop their own palettes.

Each chapter investigates a specific color principle, with the discussion supported by a related exercise, a “studio tool” assignment or demonstration, a polymer clay jewelry project, and a profile of a prominent polymer clay artist. Sample topics include:

•The Complexity of Color
•Three Properties of Color
•Choosing Your Palette
•Mixing Colors That Flow
•Matching Colors with Precision
•Games Colors Play
•Orchestrating Color Combinations
•Color Composition: Placement and Proportion
•Playful Patterns
•Tantalizing Textures ... Read more

Customer Reviews (26)

Beautiful and useful
I wasn't sure about getting this book because I have others which cover color mixing recipes. However, I am glad I did because it will help me to make decisions about color choices. Don't be put off by reviewers who say this is not for beginners or that it's a college level text. If you are absolutely new to using polymer clay, you will need a different book or two to help you learn the basics. This one can be added to your collection to help you understand basic color theory, and what will make or break your design, whether jewelry or sculpture. Color theory is explained in simple terms and there are plenty of pictures which will help. And there is nothing like the exercises to really help you "get it" from hands on doing.The book includes color mixing as well as techniques like Skinner Blends and millefiore. This is a valuable addition to the polymer clay artist's library.

not for the beginner!
This is a Fabulous book although I do not recommend it for the beginner student of polymer clay! Not unless you are prepared to do some serious color work at a college level. It has great lessons, samples, gallery photos, and everything needed to really intensify and advance you in the area of color work. I learned a lot more than I did when I took a color course in college!!

Lots of color info but not too many projects...
This book DOES have good info on mixing colors, hues and tints,values, etc.So if you're very anal about precise colors you'll love it.My problem with the book is that all the beautiful things on the cover are just pictures of other people's work!I was fooled into thinking that these items would be projects that you can make.They are NOT!So don't be fooled.The projects in the book that they do show are DUMB!!I feel like sending this book back!My first book was titled' Clay techniques with a pasta machine 'had more and better techniques in it....even mokume-gane.Hope this review was helpful.

Polymer Clay Color Inspiration
It's a good book - however, I thought it would have more color mix "recipes" - If you are just starting in polymer clay and looking for recipes to unique colors this is not the book.

Excellent!
A beautiful book, on time! I've enjoyed reading an starting to create my jewels. Thank you very much! ... Read more

Product Description
The Polymer Clay Cookbook celebrates favorite foods with 20 tiny, deliciously realistic food charms to make from polymer clay and fashion into unique jewelry. Styled as a cookbook for the beginning miniaturist "chef," the introductory chapters discuss the "basic ingredients" and techniques used for polymer clay and jewelry-making. The remainder of the book offers 20 "recipes" grouped by category: fruits, breakfast, lunch and dinner, sweets and snacks, and holiday foods. Each recipe has a list of"ingredients," step-by-step directions with photographs, and suggested variations. Each piece is presented as a particular finished jewelry item, such as a necklace, but readers are encouraged to adapt the piece into any type of jewelry they choose. Each chapter also includes one of the authors' own cherished recipes for real food, including Sunday Morning Cinnamon Rolls, Grandma's Pasta Sauce, Decadent Raspberry Chocolate Cupcakes, and Mom's Holiday Sugar Cookies. Throughout, the authors--who are sisters--share their enthusiasm for family, sisterhood, and the tradition and feelings surrounding our favorite foods. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

Polymer clay-tiny food
This book is very interested.Love looking at the pictures much less reading it.

Ploymer Clay Cookbook Review!
I really loved this book! When I bought it I was so excited! I was a complete beginner and the pictures are great! They show you everything step by step! And everything is just SO cute! I'm practicing every day and, as soon as I master it, I am planning to sell them on the web! I also LOVE how the book has a life size ball of clay (printed oon the page)that you need for each project (in each color needed). GREAT for beginners or people who want to improve and learn more!!
The only thing I didnt like was the part of the book that explains how to attatch hardware(headpins,eyepins,wire,etc). And that was because I have watched MANY tutorials on YouTube (another great source on how to make charms:)!!)and they simply just get the wire, fold it over, stick it into the charm, and put crazy glue so it will stay there. The headpins can be pretty pricey, so I prefer the wire method better.
But other than that I <3 this book 100%!!! :) I'm soo happy with it and would deffinatly recomend it to a fellow craft buddy or buy it again!!

Polymer Clay Cookbook
Very fast shipment!After reviewing the book I really didn't care for.
I guess I didn't read the reviews enough.But still...the seller was
great in shipping out the book fast!!

Great book for beginners
I am just starting to get into making miniature polymer clay foods for various uses-such as jewelry. I got this book and read it front to back as soon as I got it in the mail. It is very easy to follow and read, and visually appealing. There weren't a whole lot of "recipes" but it gave you the basics and know how to get you going on the right path. I would recommend it to someone who wants to know the right way to get stared with this craft!

I waited eagerly for nothing...
I was excited when I first read about this book. I couldn't wait to get a copy. Finally it came out and I waited until my local bookstore had a copy for me to look at before buying. I ended up putting it back. I'm a beginner at polymer clay and still wasn't impressed.
It's really directions you could figure out on your own, just by looking at the picture. The treats are overly simple--what you see is what it is--a flattened squish of clay on top of a rolled up ball. There's no special textures or techniques you couldn't find with a search on yahoo if you needed to - a ball tool for dimples, a spatula side for lines. There is nothing more detailed than sesame seeds. (I specifically was looking for things like the look of piped icing on cupcakes, or the messy smeared icing and crumb texture of a cake slice - you won't find it here.) Also, the treats on the cover are pretty much all that are in the book - maybe 15 projects. I was surprised by the book's small size when I found it on the shelf.
Maybe buy it for your 7 year old who wants to start making some gifts for her friends.
... Read more

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Customer Reviews (45)

Creating figures in polymer
WOW! is this ever a great book.If you are interested in creating figures in polymer, get this book.There is so much detailed information and many pictures.You will be inspired!

Everything you ever wanted to know...
I plan to spend many winter days sculpting with this great book.Techniques are simple to in-depth and very well illustrated.I'm excited to add this title to my art library.

Amazing book
This is an absolutely amazing book.I am by no means a beginner when it comes to polymer clay,and yet within half an hour of reading this book, I've already doubled my knowledge on the tricks of the trade.Great for those who want to simplify and sculpt anatomy accurately.Full of tons of pictures and do it yourself sculpting tools, this book is wonderful for beginners as well as experienced sculptors.

amazing clay techniques
this is an excellent book giving detailed illustrations of how to create perfect figures in Polymer clay. it is amazing to see how layering up the clay can give the illusion of muscles, to make the figure look real. the guidelines included help to fully understand how the clay works, and how to work with it. i learn something new every time i read it !

great techniques for doll making
this book really gave me the guidelines how to create perfect human like bodies for dolls, how to make the details, which tools to use... I thought I knew a lot but learned quite a few new things! ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (37)

The Art of Polymer Clay Millefiori Techniques: Projects and Inspiration for Creative Canework
Just when you think you have seen it all, along comes a book to spark you inner creative "child". I was at a standstill with creativity. Not anymore. I would have wanted to see more on landscape canes. That is my want. Still great book. Not just for beginners either.

Wonderful book by one of the medium's great artists
Donna Kato is a legend in polymer clay, her gorgeous beads are coveted and collected for their intricate canework, and as you'd expect, her 3rd book, The Art of Polymer Clay- Millefiori Techniques is incredibly well written with beautiful photographs.
When you make a cane, it's the same design all the way through, and you cut off slices of the cane to decorate your items with. That's the emphasis of the book, making gorgeously detailed canes to decorate polymer clay items with.
The introduction chapters have a lot of information about the different clays, working with them, and tools that come in handy for creating canes. She introduces you to cutters, bead rollers, extruders, and racks. She also explains the best methods for curing pieces, how to keep harmful fumes out of your oven if you are curing in your home oven, and tells you about specialty tools and methods for curing beads so they don't wind up with a shiny spot on them. She also briefly covers the best way to finish a project, and what sorts of glues to use.
After you get through all the information in the first 30 pages, she goes on to explain some of the history of millefiori, which in Italian means "thousand flowers", originally a technique for glass cane work, it's translates into working with polymer clay in a great way. Polymer clay canes are a lot easier to build than glass canes, and you can get an almost painterly effect with shading by blending clays. She explains very well color blending, color theory, and how contrast can affect a piece.
Then she goes into really simple canes, and explains reducing, which is how you start with a short fat cane put together almost like a mosaic, and make it a long thin cane with that same design all the way through it.
After that, it's the yummy part of the book, the inspirational part. Projects using what you have learned. The projects build on each other, so if you are an absolute beginner to working with canes, and work them in order, you'll find you've built skill sets for the next project, and the projects themselves are brightly colored, satisfying, and inspirational. You'll get lots of ideas for what you can do with what's you've learned.
In short, I love this book, and think it's well worth buying if you're interested in polymer clay

Must have for polymer clay canework
Do not pay attention to the negitive review.This is the best book on canework.I have just finished a cane after purchasing this book yesturday.I read the whole book last night and it is great.The commenter who complained about picture size and lack of detail and not giving instructions to the really cool canes needs a clue.Just by using this book and learning what is in it and making canes it will be clear to all but the very limited few that the intricate canes are easy to make and you do not need each step spelled out.Take this book, use it as a starting point and you will be an expert caneworker in no time.Of all the polymer clay books I have this is a must have.Buy this book.Half the fun is the learning and it goes fast with a book like this.Love the information on cane reduction much better information than you can get anywhere else and the information on color mixing is the best I have seen to date.The look inside the book on the web does not do this book justice.Buy it now at this price it is worth it.I got it for cover price at local craft store and I am happy even at full price.Glad I have it I just could not even wait for shipping.It is that good.

Fabulous book - so inspiring
This is my third Donna Kato book and it does not disappoint. It is a fabulous book - so inspiring - I did not know I could get that excited by polymer clay! Brilliantly detailed photography and instructions, I just cannot wait to try out all the techniques. The project ideas are really interesting and as usual, Donna's work is executed to the highest standard. It is also nice to see examples of other artists' work to illustrate certain techniques. If you want to make canes and learn millefiori techniques - this is the book.

wonderful book
this is a constant source for inspiration- wonderful - cant get enough- great pics and directions. ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (43)

Excellent resource!
This book is awesome! I'm a long-time polymer clay lover, and though I know the basics such as conditioning, curing, safety, tools, and a few helpful tricks, I never really knew how to achieve all the amazing effects true clay artists use. Now I do.
This book covers a variety of effects, such as the three-dimensional illusion, several different image transfer methods, faux-enamel, and more. And to make it even more perfect, it isn't a project book, and it's not a technical book: it's both. It focuses on teaching you the techniques, but at the end of each chapter, there's a single project that shows you how you can use what you just learned. It's the perfect combination!

The Art of Polymer Clay Creative Surface Effects and Featuring Transfers, Stamps, Stencils, Inks, Paints, Mediums, and More
Donna Kato is at it again. She has many books out on many subjects. She has incorporated so many different techniques in this one book. She is a talented artist and it becomes evident in this, her latest book. She sparks my creative juices. Great Book.

Polymer clay
This book is a very good book for people who already know how to work with clay.It was to hard for me as a beginner.Alot of pictures and no instructions.

All books from Mrs. Kato are excellent
but this one is my personal favourite.
I have a lot of polymer clay books. Unfortunately very often books repeat themselves and one cannot find many new and interesting informations. This book is full of wonderful inspiration and techniques brought into perfection. If you are interested in polymer clay and want to learn and understand it - Donna Kato is the best book-teacher. After going through this book you will see more of possibilities hidden in polymer clay

Absolutely fantastic book
This is the first book I have bought of Donna Kato's. It is absolutely fantastic - I cannot find fault with it. Well written, beautifully illustrated and full of inspiring project ideas. Donna's skill shows through in the quality of her work. I am a perfectionist and truly admire her standard of craftsmanship. I will definitely be buying Donna's other books. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (28)

awesome instructions
for anyone wanting to make lifelike animals, this is the book to get. she explains it easily and even if you make the ball larger, she shows you how to adjust the body to fit. Each step is clear and easy to follow. Highly recommend this book for clay workers.

LOVE THIS BOOK !!!
LOT'S OF TALENT WENT INTO THIS BOOK. Everyone needs to get this book if they are interested in working with clay. Great Book what else can I say ?

The Book To Have At Your Side!
This is exactly the type of book I was looking for to guide me through polymer clay in animal works. Not only are the steps detailed down to the finished painting process but at the back of the book are tips on how to reposition the animal. Just a great, great reference book for the beginner or serious hobbyist to perfect their techniques. I was so banking on it being what I needed I had it shipped post haste! and was not disappointed. I can only thank the author by doing her book justice with my works!

Great true to like looks animals
When I opened this book I could not believe how true to life the animals are that Katherine Dewey has made for this book. It made me hope she comes out with another book on other animals she has created. My favorite in the book is the fawn and in another area of the book she shows a different way to create a laying down fawn instead of a standing up one by making the legs differently for the body base.

I suggest this book for those who love animal statues that look like they are ready to walk off your table or shelf.

animal reproduction
this book is wonderful to look at. gives lots of instructions, but still need some talent to pull it off like the photos. haven't tried it yet, anxious to get started ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (61)

useful and descriptive manual
This book on making polymer beads is really great...colorful, detailed directions and inspiring.I have found it to be very helpful in creating beads.

This book is the best ever!
I have a lot of "how-to" polymer clay bead-making books in my library, and I think "Making Polymer Clay Beads" by Carol Blackburn is the best one ever! Not a lot of useless gab but lots and lots of great photos and step-by-step tutorials on exactly how to create some awesome looking beads. She also has some very valuable tips and a great list of essential materials. This book would be perfect for a beginner as well as a pro.

THIS BOOK IS WONDERFUL!
If you follow the beautiful step by step photos you can't go wrong. There are so many different techniques in this book, I just look at it over and over and still see something new every time. You definitely get your money's worth. This book is all you need to get started in making clay jewelry. The cover doesn't do it justice.

Love the Book, Love the Service . . .
Hello Polymer Artists

I have really enjoyed this delightful book on Polymer Bead making.I am fairly new to polymer, but no mater what level or what medium I am working in, . . . I seek out the best imformative books, CD's, videos, and online information available.This book is laid out very well with step-by-step guides, photos and variety.

Carol Blackburn has created a wonderful how-to book, and a masterful reference book.I hope it will find its way to many artist book shelves.

great book
this is a wonderful book.The directions are easy to follow and they have given me many ideas. ... Read more

Product Description
A world of polymer clay magic, all in one book!Features 15 step-by-step projects for creating clay fairies, gnomes, trolls and other enchanting figuresAll materials are readily available at local craft storesThe whimsical creatures of fantasy spring to life through polymer clay projects in this beautiful instructional book.Readers will learn to create an entire fantasy land, from the secret door to enter this fantastic realm to the trolls, gnomes, fairies and mermaids who inhabit it. Step-by-step photos allow for re-creating the characters exactly, and readers are inspired to make their own imaginary creatures through a gallery of the author's own figures. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (35)

Scuplting Book
This book is very informative.Have already created a sculpted head.The book is in A1 shape and was shipped very quickly to me.I would recommend this book for others who are wanting to scuplt with clay.

Another great Carlson polymer clay guide

As in all of her books on polymer clay figure-making, Carlson gives clear and concise instructions on creating amazingly charming little people out of lumps of clay. Even in this book, which is purportedly about making fantasy characters, she gives enough directions about figure sculpting techniques to allow one to make creatures fantastical or realistic. Another hidden gem for those wishing to learn how to model figures with a wide range of facial expression, human or otherwise.

Making Poly Clay figures
Although I have only scanned through this book, it looks very detailed. That is what I need. I can hardly wait to start making clay figures.

Making polymer clay figures
This book is very well written and the characters included are really cute. I have already used the techniques outlined to create my own figures.

cool pics!
I got this as a gift for a friend and she seems to be enjoying it a lot. ... Read more

Product Description
Polymer clay is one of the most versatile craft projects on the market -- you can cut, carve, stamp, mold, sculpt and add texture, all to create individualized jewelry. With easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions, and the author's "can do" attitude, success is a sure bet. Shirley Rufener will guide you through basic techniques and 25 projects. Discover how to simulate the look of glass, enamel, fine porcelain and chalked ceramics, without the use of an expensive kiln. As a bonus, techniques include creating your own homemade, translucent, custom rubber stamps to use on clay and for traditional rubber-stamping. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (12)

Great Packaging!
I will continue to buy from this seller because of the nice cardboard wrapping the book came in. Thank you.

Polymer Clay Mixed Media Jewelry
This book is a little too "basic" for what I wanted - not enough in depth information. It seems aimed at the crafter instead of the artist.

Book delivers on its title
I recently purchased this book to add it to my PC collection which is quite extensive. I was pleasantly surprised to see that there are indeed some fresh techniques in the book, enough to keep you busy and also inspire your creativity. The pictures and instructions are clear and the finished pieces look professional. I would recommend this book to beginners and advanced clayers alike.

Excellent Instruction by a Master of Her Craft
This is the second of Christi Friesen's instructional books I have purchased. The first, on Dragons was great, but this one is by far and away the best of those two. If you wish to sculpt beautiful, fatastical jewelry of your own, using the simple media of Polymer Clay, this is a great book to have! Especially for those you love birds! I would not call this a book strictly on sculpting birds, but rather on techniques easily usable for a variety of sculpters! I recommend this book very, very highly!!! A++++

best for beginners, but some new ideas for experienced pc'ers
Shirley has produced a book that captures some of the best ideas that have been recent polymer clay buzz - using alcohol inks , pastels, liquid polymer, extruded clay,micromosaics- and walks the reader step by step through interesting how-tos.probably best for the beginner, I found no new techniques for me (but I'm a polymer class-book 'junkie'), but Shirley's explanations would be extremely helpful for someone new to the media and the gallery pieces were very inspiring. ... Read more

Product Description
The latest in our best-selling Encyclopedia of Art series focuses on one of the most popular and versatile mediums available to crafters. This comprehensive guide offers directions on making decorative boxes, mosaics, and miniature models, as well as beads, buttons, and jewelry. Large, clear photographs demonstrate over 50 techniques, including basic skills such as rolling, color mixing, marbling, and baking; progressing to more challenging methods of shaping, molding, and sculpting clay. A 16-page gallery of work by renowned polymer clay artists demonstrates what can be achieved and provides crafters with inspiration. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (18)

The Encyclopedia of Polymer Clay Techniques
This book is full of information for the beginner.It also has some excellent projects for all levels.It is a great book to have for reference on many of the different clay techniques.

Better Books Out There
This book is well illustrated but most of the techniques are incorporated into projects I wasn't interested in and some very important layering techniques were not shown. I was also looking to replace a book I had on clay "formulas" for imitating various types of semi-precious stones and other materials. I would recommend "Making Polymer Clay Beads: Step-by-Step Techniques for Creating Beautiful Ornamental Beads" over this book. It is also well illustrated but covers most of what I consider to be the important techniques for working with Polymer Clay.

the Encyclopedia of Polymer Clay
a very well presented and displayed book, as a novice to Polymer it did give me great intro to it

Expand Your Creativity!
This is a great book for someone who is just getting started with Polymer clay or for someone who is looking for new ideas. It is easy to understand and shows so many techniques that even the most experienced artist will find endless possibilities.

GREAT
I really like this book, good pictures, good instructions, good ideas.I would recommend it. ... Read more

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Product Description
These 25 polymer clay projects are just right for beginners--both adults and kids. Each one is easily completed in a single sitting without a lot of fuss.

The finished polymer clay pieces can be used as magnets, pins, buttons or decorative figurines. Each one is theme-based by season, including:
* Winter: skiing polar bears and snowflake pins
* Spring: a leprechaun and shamrocks
* Summer: a bunny on the beach
* Fall: smiling witches and Pilgrims

Readers will also find simple formulas for creating their own ideas along with invaluable advice for making pins into buttons and magnets. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (15)

cute
i havnt made anything yet but wanted to share that the projects look very cute and the steps look simple enough, i hope. i like that it has the projects sorted by season/holiday. plus i think that these projects gave me ideas/techniques for other cute gifts. directions are simple and most projects are quik enough to make several in one sitting (if desired). i like that i could spend an afternoon and be able to finish more than one 'gift' or project. in a nutshell: cute, fast gifts. not a bad investment

Worth 5 stars
I am giving this book a 5-star rating because it has such wonderful descriptions of every step. The pictures make it easy to follow what the author is teaching. The variety of figures demonstrated in the book is awesome. Great for a rank beginner or a more experienced crafter. The faces on the characters are delightful and are easily achieved following the instructions in this book. Makes me feel like a pro even though I am a beginner.

Making Gifts in Polymer Clay
Very good book with lots of large, color, close-up pictures. Book is broken into several projects for each season. Even has intructions for simple canes, making molds and pasta machines. The simple styles are endearing and the techniques are transferrable to your own projects.

Great little book!
This book has clear instructions, many helpful tips, great illustrations, really cute things to make and an altogether enjoyable book.

Informative
At this particular time I have only browsed through this book but the projects are clear and concise and I will be having a lot of fun making some of these projects.I find the instructions and ideas great for cake decorating too. ... Read more

Product Description
• A top-seller by the biggest name in polymer clay
• Classic introduction to polymer clay techniques
• Polymer clay is easy and fun to work with—perfect for beginners

When The Art of Polymer Clay first appeared in 1997, polymer clay was undergoing a revival in the U.S., but its full creative potential had yet to be explored. With this book, author and artist Donna Kato helped change all that by introducing crafters to the vast range of polymer clay techniques, from millefiori to imitative to sculpture. Today millions of people enjoy creating with exciting, easy-to-use polymer clay. This season, Watson-Guptill is pleased to present the book that helped start the craze, in a new format at an affordable new price. Updates on clays, tools and supplies, conditioning, and safety make this the definitive book in the field—and one that everyone can afford to buy and enjoy.Amazon.com Review
Available in a tremendous array of colors and easily cured by baking in a home oven, polymer clay is a unique medium for creating a variety of beautiful items. In The Art of Polymer Clay, noted artist Donna Kato explains the basics as well as many unusual techniques, including imitative methods that can be used to create the look of semi-precious stones, woven fabric, carved wood, metal, and realistic flowers. Kato's sense of style and color is superb, and her directions are clear and concise. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (41)

Excellent all round book on polymer clay
I bought this book to complete my collection of Donna Kato books. It is a 2006 reprint and up-date of an earlier (1997) book which, although quite old now, is still a good introductory book. Donna's subsequent books cover different techniques in more detail but this is an excellent all round book on polymer clay.

It is well photographed, with instructions, and full of ideas for projects to make. You need to remember that she uses Kato Polyclay, which bakes at a higher temperature than other brands, if you are following the instructions but using a different clay. I admire Donna's work and would not hesitate to recommend this book to someone starting out. Hopefully they will find it inspiring enough to buy her other books.

Polymer Clay Crafters Essential
Donna Kato is the recognized expert when it comes to crafting with polymer clay for a reason.If this is your hobby, this book is a must for your library.It is full of inspiration and instruction is thorough.

Don't buy this one -- Donna Kato has a better one than this one
While this book covers a variety of Polymer Clay techniques and is a good start for a beginner, I would recommend Donna Kato's book, "The Art of Polymer Clay: Millefiori Techniques" over this one.

This book shows different techniques and has some good projects but doesn't go in the depth the other book goes into.

I would buy this book to supplement the other books by Donna Kato and other Polymer Clay Artists.

Donna is the best!
The Art of Polymer Clay: Designs and Techniques for Creating Jewelry, Pottery, and Decorative Artwork (Updated Edition)

I have learned so much from this book an I don't want to put it down.There isn't one wasted word and the photos are outstanding.If you have any interest at all in polymer clay, Donna Kato, is, if you don't already know, one of the best!!!Donna, thank you for this book.I can now take myself to another level of polymer clay work.

Madeline Faiella

The Art Of Polymer Clay.....
This polymer clay book is an updated version of one Donna Kato did several years ago. This book is a wonderfully written and illustrated book about how to use polymer clay to make many things around your house. The steps are clearly explained with photos clearly showing each step. I wish all craft books were as well written and illustrated as this leading founder in the polymer clay industry is. 5 gold stars for Donna Kato!!!! ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (21)

Best polymer clay book ever.
I loved this book and teacher. Everything is explained fully and in a way that actually makes sense to the novice. It is totally hands on, forgiving, and affirming as it actually turns out!!! Helps you feel like you are well on your way .....and you are!

The style is organic and a imagninative and I invites you to be the same. Wear them and have fun with all the compliments!! A DVD is also available in polymer and wire work at interweave .

Fabulous!
I was not into polymer as the class I took focused on flowers and canes and I just do not make that type of jewelry. Now with this book I am creating pieces that have my kind of style and make a statement!!

I love this book!
This book contains detailed instructions that a beginner can understand for creating jewelry that looks like a professional toiled for weeks to make. I highly recommend this book for polymer clay beginners or dabblers (like me).

cool, different style
I loved the originality and uniqueness of the projects here. They are all the same basic style--if you like the piece on the cover, you will probably like the book. Some of the projects include wire work, which is a nice variation on the usual polymer bead work. I'm not really into polymer clay with all the zillion steps it usually takes to makes canes, etc., but this book takes a very loose, organic approach that takes the intimidation out of trying to make perfect beads.

original BUT...so great
it is fantastic how this author creates with very few technical skills but a lot of talent!she has her own style.
it change from the other books where you see all the time the same way to do skinner bland, flower cane and millfiori...her work is very well described in numerous pictures.
with simple tools and tips she make the necklace gorgeous.
easy to reproduce, and so rewarded to wear what you did. each piece I made from her book, was rewarded with "WOW THAT is beautiful!".
even if you don't like every thing she makes, you will be inspired for ever , like me , with the way to do your jewelry.it is a 90 degree turn in polymer clay, and I have a lot of books on the subject, but it is the only one I wanted to leave a good feed back on!
she doesn't talk only about polymer clay, she makes you doing your own wire work (clap, ear wire...)to keep your piece handmade by yourself, and unique! ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (6)

fantastic input for ideas
even though i am using these books for pottery they were very helpful, for using with children and adults with limited mobility, they were great for new ideas.I recomment these books for anyone who is teaching, and wants to have a continous flow of ideas.

So MUCH FUN!!!
This book rocks! It is awesome, they teach you everything so simple that you are able to make all the figures in relatively no time.

One of the things I really liked of this book, is the fun way they wrote it, each character has a story and makes the learning process even funnier.

Sculpting Mythical Creators out of Polymer Clay
The book is really fun.I find the faces are rather disturbing but the details about building sculpting frames and then applying the clay are very good. I really want to try a Centaur.

Too good to be true!!! :)
It is incredibly easily to learn how to make anything from polymer clay with that book. I spend many pleasant hours to make strange creatures without really to understand when the time went. If you like to do something with your hands, this book will help you to find a different and funny way to fill your free time.
p.s.
To Boris and Dinko
Excellent job guys!!! I think you have to write another one. :)
I wish you good luck!

Myrhical Creatures Dinko & Boris' newbook
This is a wonderful tool for learning to sculpt with polymer clay. The instructions are well thought out and clear and the authors inject a bit of humor while explaining their techniques. I would highly recommend this book as well as their first one "Creating Fantasy Polymer Clay Characters". Both were extremely helpful to me and very instructive and entertaining. I hope The Tilov's come out with another one! ... Read more

Product Description
Introduction to Polymers, Second Edition discusses the synthesis, characterization, structure, and mechanical properties of polymers in a single text, giving approximately equal emphasis to each of these major topics. It has thus been possible to show the interrelationship of the different aspects of the subject in a coherent framework. The book has been written to be self-contained, with most equations fully derived and critically discussed. It is supported by a large number of diagrams and micrographs and is fully referenced for more advanced reading. Problems have been supplied at the end of each chapter so that students can test their understanding and practice the manipulation of data. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Best place to start for polymers
An excellent and a must read for anyone with an interest in polymeric materials. It easily is the best introductory book on the subject and I'd recommend it to all students - believe it - i've been taught by the authors! I only wish they'd also write on more specialized topics in Polymer Science.

THE introductory text for polymers
This is a lovely introductory text for polymer science, hitting on all the major concepts of characterization, structure, mechanical properties, and synthesis. Topics are covered very concisely, but with sufficient detail to be useful in several different graduate level courses on polymers. Great background for understanding Flory-Huggins theory, chain dimensions. And an excellent price as well! Just my opinions as a grad student in some polymers courses...

Interesting Basic Mechanical properties
This is an interesting introducing to basic properties on polymers. Specialy chapter five, wich talks about mechanical properties. I would recommend this book as a guide text for an introductory course to polymers,specily on mechanical properties.The mathematical treatment is justenough, without unnecesary ecuations but clear and simple. ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (34)

faux surfaces in polymer clay
This book is incredible. So many great ideas for working with polymer clay. If you are a beader or someone who loves clay, this is the book for you. Kathi

Faux Surface in Polymer Clay
Great book, well written with lots of photo's making it easy to learn how to do various craft and jewelry projects resembling elements found in nature.

Out of the ordinary Polymer Clay
This book has some really fascinating ideas for clay.I would suggest it is for intermediate or advanced clay fans. If you are a beginner get another book to fill in the info on materials and tool usage.

An Astounding Book!! Easy Enough for Beginners!
I can't recommend this book enough!! It's AMAZING!! The way Irene is able to imitate precious metals and gemstones astounds me! The instructions are detailed and easy enough for a beginner to try out. I would say this is a good book for a noob to start with and a fun book for the most experienced PC artist. The faux stones and metals look very much like the real thing!=oD

Great ideas and easy to use.
Faux Surfaces in Polymer Clay is an easy to read and use book. The author provides easy to read instructions and illustrations. The projects make for a unique way to create gifts for yourself and your family.

Each idea is a beautiful way to be an artist at any level. I would suggest this book to anyone interested in polymer clay as a great reference to what you're doing right and what you're doing wrong.

... Read more

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Customer Reviews (9)

Must have resource for any polymer clay artist
I am so glad I got this book (on recommendation from another polymer clay artist). It is a comprehensive collection of `recipes' for polymer clay surface design. Although described for all levels, this book may appeal more to those with some experience of working with polymer clay, due to the vast array of techniques and other materials (in addition to polymer clay) that are used.

Personally, I like the format of the book, concentrating more on the different techniques, rather than just being full of projects to make. It is well illustrated, with plenty of colour photographs, and has suggestions for variations on the recipes given, encouraging you to experiment further. It is a fantastic book for inspiration and ideas, and a must have resource for any polymer clay artist. Having read the book from cover to cover, I cannot wait to get working with my clay.

Ok, but not that great
This book had some interesting techniques in it, but for the most part this isn't something that will get a lot of use.I'm not all that into uing paint on my clay and this book has several paint treatments.So for me, this book wasn't that great.

Inspiring
I really like this book for the fact that although i do not use polyclay often, this books ideas on color, scheme, and technique can work for most media.i thoroughly enjoyed the eye candy but savor it mostly for the secret recipes on coloration.i would recommend this book for all involved in visual arts.

Polymer Clay Surface Design Recipes
Great information, I would recomend it to anyone who likes Polymer Clay.

Great information!
This book needed writing!Thank you, Ellen for sharing years of experimentation and innovation. as you created your art.The specific information contained within its covers could well save an artist much time and money.

Great information and a must have resource on surface treatments and polymer clay.

Donna Kato,author of The Art of Polymer Clay ... Read more