Polymer Clay

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Book Review: Ancient Modern Polymer Clay and Wire Jewelry

by

by Ronna Sarvas Weltman

by Ronna Sarvas Weltman

I was recently lucky enough to get a sneak peek at the new book  Ancient Modern; Polymer Clay and Wire Jewelry by Ronna Sarvas Weltman, being published by Interweave press. The book can be pre-ordered here.

Featuring artistic, bold, and organic jewelry, the book is a joy for sheer eye-candy value.  Ronna gives an excellent overview of the basic techniques for working with both polymer clay and wire,  and she also gently reminds the reader  that practice is the only true way to build the skills required for working with both materials.  I found the section on designing jewelry while keeping in mind the physics of how it would hang on the body especially useful.

After the technique sections, there follows fifteen projects and a gallery of lovely work.  A couple of instructions are repeated throughout the book, for example several projects require a zebra cane and the instructions are reprinted each time.  This may be useful if you are following the projects exactly,  as you will not need to go back and find the instructions in another section, but not really necessary if like me, you tend to look for techniques to add to your arsenal,  and not projects.   Ronna paid attention to the little details like filing wire ends and tucking them in so that even the very dramatic and bold jewelry would remain comfortable and wearable.

Overall, I found the book to be a delight, there were several texturing and antiquing ideas that I am excited to try in my own projects,  as well as some new (to me) bead shapes with which I am planning to experiment.  It has also reminded me what a great compliment to clay wire makes, and inspired me to pull out my wire once again!

P.S.:  Stay tuned to the blog for the next week for two giveaways!

[tags]interweave press, Ancient Modern, Polymer Clay and Wire Jewelry, Ronna Sarvas Weltman, polymer clay book, book review[/tags]

Comments

  1. ME! ME! Jules! Moe wants this! 😀 Really, I do! You’re a sweetie for doing this give away. I will try to be magnanimous of I don’t win. 🙂 Really. Thanks for doing a lovely thing for all of us! xoxo, moe

  2. Didn’t this blog post have a bunch of responses (including one from me) a week ago? Where’d they all go?

  3. I was able to see this book online and take a peek inside some of the pages. The artist work is beautiful and looks as though it will be a very inpiring book for anyone with a creative block or just in need of something beautiful to look at while they create. Thank you for entering all of us into your contest and for the work you do on the site, I enjoy it. By the way I design jewelry out of polymer clay and semi-precious stones.

Have you read?

Etsy Feature – Moth Pottery Template for Slab Building

Sometimes clay tools feel more like magic than equipment, and this Moth Pottery Template definitely falls into that category. One moment you’re working with a flat slab, and the next you’re holding a detailed, sculptural moth that looks like it could flutter right off your table.

Why This Template Caught My Eye

This design stands out because it combines structure with artistry. The template gives you the clean, symmetrical base of the moth form, but once you have that shape cut, the real fun begins—adding textures, underglazes, or even metallic accents to bring the wings to life.

It’s ideal for slab-builders who want to go beyond mugs and bowls and dive into more decorative or sculptural projects.

What Makes It Special

  • Unique Subject: How often do you see a pottery moth? It’s an instant conversation starter.

  • Sculptural Yet Simple: The template does the tricky work, leaving you free to decorate.

  • Wall Art or Table Décor: Finished moths look stunning hung on a wall, framed, or displayed on a shelf.

  • Room for Creativity: Paint with bright colors, earthy neutrals, or even metallics for different vibes.

Ideas for Makers

  • Use glossy glazes with shimmering metallic accents for a celestial-style moth.

  • Keep it natural and muted for a woodland-inspired look.

  • Make a series of moths in different colors and sizes for a gallery wall effect.

  • Turn smaller versions into pendants or ornaments.

Why Makers Will Love It

Templates like this are inspiring because they bridge the gap between functional pottery and decorative art. It’s not just about making something useful—it’s about making something memorable. And let’s be honest, it’s the kind of piece guests will immediately comment on when they spot it in your home.

You can grab it here: Moth Pottery Template for Slab Building on Etsy.

This spotlight is part of my Etsy Feature series, where I highlight clay templates and tools that push creativity beyond the basics. If you’re ready for a project that feels both bold and whimsical, this moth template will absolutely deliver.

Crochet Pattern – Adorable Fluttering Moth Sprite Doll [Crochet]

DIY Moth Embroidery Pattern And Kit [Needle Work]