Focus on Polymer Clay for Beads one-day workshop, taught by well-known jeweller and author, Sara Withers.  Sara Withers is probably the UK's foremost expert on beads, and author of over eight books on beading and wirework techniques, including the indispensable Encyclopedia of Beading Techniques and Encyclopedia of Wire Jewellery.   Polymer clay is a fabulously versatile and cost-effective medium for contemporary jewellery-making, allowing you to add colour and interest to your jewellery designs - you may have seen some of the top-quality design pieces being produced by jewellery artists recently. Polymer clay can be utilised in conjunction with traditional precious jewellery materials such as silver and gold, or used with textiles/fibres, ceramics, glass or even wood.  This workshop covers all the basics of working with polymer clay successfully, leaving you free to explore the design possibilities of this colourful and dynamic material.

• On this workshop, you will spend the day working with polymer clays (Fimo, Sculpey etc).


• You will find out about the types and brands of polymer clay available


• You will discover the best tools to use with polymer clay, including pasta machines


• You will learn how to 'condition' and combine the clays to make blends, and to make various different ‘canes’ or patterns. 


• You will then build on these skills to create a range of beads, buttons, brooches and pendants to your own designs. 


• You will also find out how to bake your polymer clay designs successfully.


• Advice will also be given on suppliers. 


• All tools you will need will be available for your use, and all the polymer clays you will need are included in the course fee.

This workshop is suitable for complete beginners, and for experienced jewellery-makers who want to learn to use polymer clay in their work.

Why not make a weekend of it, and learn how to make jewellery with your bespoke polymer clay beads, and master wirework?  Sara Withers is teaching a Beading & Wirework workshop on Sun 31 October 2010.