Teaching a Polymer Clay Class

by Janine Gerade
(JMG Designs Handcrafted Jewelry)

Polymer clay bead bracelet by Janine Gerade

I was lucky enough to teach a beginners Polymer Clay class at La Casa, in North Port Florida.

The "jelly roll", which is a type of pattern you use to decorate beads with.

I think everyone had a good time but there was surely not enough time.

We will need a good 4 hours next year when I visit my in-law's.

There is so much to learn about clay.

polymer clay beads from polymer clay class by janine gerade

Techniques like cane-making, polishing and glazing, pigment powders, image transfers etc. I could go on forever!!!

I learned that you have to have everyone condition or "knead" the clay.

I tried to save time and pre-condition the clay but it hardens a bit and cracks even over a few hours.

We made plenty of beads to make some nice pieces of jewelry.

When you teach, encourage your students to take photos of their finished creations to see how the creative process flourishes (my favorite part of teaching!).

gemstone and polymer clay bracelet by janine gerade

gemstone and polymer clay bracelet by janine gerade

It was a pleasure to teach such nice people! I hope I hooked a few into this craft.

Janine Gerade
JMG Designs Handcrafted Jewelry
JmG Design's Blog

Comments for
Teaching a Polymer Clay Class

Click here to add your own comments

What a fun class!
by: Rena

Janine, I bet your students had a blast, and the class time went by fast!

Thanks so much for sharing your experience with teaching a polymer clay class - and your tips for making it even better next time.

Also, I especially love your lime-colored polymer clay bracelet above - chic and cheery!

Pretty pretty pretty!
by: Anonymous

I'd love for you to teach a workshop(s) locally. I know people who would be interested. Including myself.
Loving the b&w bracelet w/the larger beads!

-=Sherri=-