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Bead-N-Bead (Lost Wax) Project |
Wanna know how to do one? Here's a quick explanation
of what I did: 2. Wrap the waxed bead with a thick sheet of polymer clay (about 1 1/2 coin quarters thick). Trim excess clay and smooth out seams/joins. Cut out desired shaped holes or openings. I've used leather punches or small aspic/vegetable cutters, although any shape will do. The clay should not be mushy or the shell will distort too much when you're doing the cutouts. If need be, chill it in your refrigerator. 3. Bake at your polymer clay brand's recommended temperature. Make sure the bead is suspended so when the wax melts and drips out the bead won't be sitting in melted wax. I've had a bit of trouble with the shells cracking during baking, if the bead is not suspended or supported properly. I'd recommend using the strongest clays (Premo or Cernit or well conditioned Fimo) for the shells. Remember polymer clay doesn't have any strength when it's baking. Now you've got one bead freely rolling about inside the outer bead. Let the bead cool. 4. Dip the whole thing in melted wax (same consistency as before), making sure you end up with a #1+ thickness coat around the outside of the outer bead. Again, smooth with fingers while the wax is still warm and malleable. 5. Repeat step #2 and #3. Then you'll have one bead inside of another inside of another. You could keep going, but I think three beads is enough unless you're really brave or curious. :) 6. Some suggestions for finishing:
Notes:
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Congratulations! You're done. Now make some more. ;-) Desiree |
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Last update to this page: 29 Jan 02. Send comments, questions or suggestions to Desiree McCrorey. |