A big part of the book "Create A Polymer Clay Impression" has
to do with the decorative possibilities of polymer clay, and how it can
draw from fabric inspirations. Widely different styles of home decor can
all be accented using polymer clay!
As a life-long collector of interesting textiles and trims, I use snippets
here and there in doll costumes, quilts, and wearable art clothing. Some
I even use as backgrounds when shooting photos or scans.
Fabrics wait patiently until you find just the right projects for them--
and polymer clay can really help tie a look all together.
Having a variety of textiles on hand means being able to study prints
for inspiration when designing millefiore canes, as well as using some
of them for impressions! (Lace is very good for this).
Many great fabric vendors can be found through the Internet and on eBay--some
specialize in vintage and antique textiles, some in new goods.
The swatches shown here have lush colors and gold metallic accents that
characterize the new oriental motif fabrics manufactured by Kona Bay Fabrics.
Small fabric pieces can easily be used in quilts, pillows, and hangings.
Larger amounts of yardage used in window treatments, furniture coverings,
and even rugs set the tone and feel of a room.
Polymer clay can be used to match or co-ordinate with
any fabric--and not just for clothing and wearable art! Dress up those
walls with beautiful polymer clay switchplate and electrical plug covers,
with drawer pulls and even covered doorknobs! Lamp bases, boxes, objet's
d'art and more; polymer clay can cover them all and add details that make
the difference in decorating.
Finials for curtain rods or lamps, candlesticks, pictureframe components
and more are all possible with PC. You can make a huge visual impact without
much cost--and that's ALWAYS a plus when decorating!
Shown at left is a palette of vintage fabric colors instead of the vibrant
oriental tones shown above. The styles shown at right are more along the
lines of Rachel Ashwell's "Shabby Chic" style, featuring prints,
chintzes, calicos, and lace. They have a country flavor without being cute,
and would work well with antique furniture or new pieces, making a decorative
tie-in with other collected treasures.
It's the details that "make" a room
or a garment!
It's easy to match fabric and polymer colors with a little practice.
Adding a little black to your clay colors helps to "sadden" the
final shade, or use stain made with acrylic paint to whitewash or antique
the final look.
Translucent and white make a very lacy kind of millefiore cane that
can be used to make a tone-on-tone effect, or as an edging to other sorts
of polymer applications. Try using polymer cly to enhance your decor---its
not just for dolls and beads these days!
send email to: Sarajane@polyclay.com
