I get asked by my students on and offline how to improve their polymer clay work and I can honestly say swaps and challenges are great for this! They give you a structured area to work in and a timeline. There’s often even prizes. Give them a shot! Several groups have recurring monthly ones.

Polyform’s monthly challenge, as posted on Facebook, is all about using the inspiration piece to Make-It-Your-Own.
The ArtBeadScene has a monthly challenge and if you’re into making beads and jewellery with your clay then this is a super one. I’m one of the sponsors this month, too!
PolymerClayCentral, wonderful resource that it is, has dual themes each month now for their challenges. This month it’s weddings or graduations!

Many of the guilds have challenges online and off. If you’re a member check into it!

POP! – Perspectives on Polymer

Contemporary Craft is thrilled to be hosting POP! – Perspectives on Polymer June 25-29, 2022. A five-day celebration of contemporary work in polymer, the event will have something for everyone who loves polymer clay. POP! will feature four workshops along with virtual talks by some of the best polymer artists in the country, an exhibition of small works in polymer, and a curated feature in the Store. The opening reception will be held on Saturday, June 25, 6-8 PM, and will be free and open to the public.

POP!’s focus on workshops and the materiality of polymer makes this boutique event more than just a conference. Each participating artist was selected for their unique perspectives on polymer and the exciting ways they are moving the medium forward. The featured instructor for the event is Jeffrey Lloyd Dever, whose pioneering techniques in polymer have made him one of the most respected artists in the field. His jewelry and sculptural objects have been shown in many national invitational exhibitions, and his works are represented in numerous private collections, galleries and museums.

Have you read?

POP! – Perspectives on Polymer