If you have access to a pasta machine you can make a whole pile of pretty awesome simple canes. Bonus points if you have a clay extruder around.

If you want precise, nicely lined up canes use the square edged dies on your extruder first – parts fit together more neatly. Checkerboard squares line up beautifully but you could just as easily do this with right angle triangles. Simple block letters are another great cane. I make ER canes to use as a signature on my clay pieces. Make letters, reduce teeny tiny, and add a slice to your projects.

Burst patterns in white and translucent are great effects on layered cane work designs. Make the burst with a round log in the center and you have a great sun cane to use.

Maureen Carlson had a short craft book called Clay Techniques with a Pasta Machine which goes into much more detail about what sort of simple techniques you can do with just a pasta machine.

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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.

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POP! – Perspectives on Polymer

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