Ombre Lava Bead Necklace

These big and surprisingly lightweight beads are fun to make and to wear.  They can be as bright and playful or dark and classy as you desire.  We will learn to make color blends for use as veneers.  You'll learn tips and tricks for constructing lightweight beads and how to add interest with surface techniques, both before and after curing.

Class time:  4 hours

Note:  This does not include curing.  Students can either cure and finish their necklace at home with provided instructions, or can come to a 1-hour follow-up/finishing session on a later date.

Tools & Materials:   

Polymer clay -- bring 2-3 colors of your choice of Premo or Souffle clays   (available at Michael's, JoAnn's, and other craft supply stores).  Choose colors that go well together.  Consider also how they might blend (e.g., yellow and blue will blend into shades of green, while yellow and purple will blend into browns -- we'll talk a little of how blending works with polymer clays, pigment strengths, etc.).

Tools:  pasta machine and/or clay roller, work surface, clay blade, needle tool,  thin knitting needles or wires (straightened paper clips work great!) to cure beads on, sponge-y texture sheets.  Instructor has some extras of each tool, but you may have to share if there are not enough to go around--best to bring your own if you have them.

Extras:  Instructor will provide stringing wire and clasps, though you are free to bring your own if you have specific ones you'd like to use.

Instructor will have a limited number of pasta machines and other tools to borrow.   A limited amount of extra clay will be available for purchase, if needed.