Pairing polymer clay with silver

Here are the photos I promised. These are pieces I recently completed using some of the silver components I was working on. I really enjoy pairing polymer clay and sterling silver. I like the look, and I enjoy the different processes. Combining these materials can be both freeing and challenging. Working with polymer clay and silver can be freeing because you can design the silver portion first and fit the polymer clay to the metal. Or you can do it the traditional way by designing the metal to fit a polymer clay piece you’ve already made.

It can be challenging because polymer clay is relatively soft, and it can be scratched, compressed or cracked while riveting. But, polymer clay is generally quick and easy to repair or replace. (most of the time)

The first necklace reminds me of cross section slices of pods:

Sliced Pods Necklace - Libzoid, May 2008

I made the left and center portions separately, intending them as simple pendants, but when they were sitting side by side on my worktable I decided they’d be more interesting together.

Mod Flower Pendant:

Mod Flower Pendant - Libzoid May 2008

The funky flower shape I have been working on, finally riveted together. I need to find a substantial chain for this.

Framed Rectangle Pin

Rectangle Frame Brooch - Libzoid, May 2008

Painted and patterned polymer clay sandwiched in between layers of sterling silver. There’s a handcrafted double pin on the back of this piece to help keep it stable.

Filed in metalworking, polymer clay |

4 Responses to “Pairing polymer clay with silver”

  1. Kathion 17 May 2008 at 12:54 am 1

    I really like that trio Libby. what a great idea to combine them all.

  2. Bettinaon 17 May 2008 at 12:16 pm 2

    Oh my god - I love that Mod flower Pendant. Working with silver in combination with PC is really one of my faves too. Often the pc designs just pop up after being combined with the metal.

    Keep up the incredible work

    hugs
    Bettina

  3. Karenon 19 May 2008 at 3:45 pm 3

    Hi Libby,

    I love the look of the polymer clay combined with the sterling silver. Crisp and clean juxtaposed with colorful and playful. Fabulous!

    -Karen

  4. Amy Crawleyon 20 May 2008 at 1:53 pm 4

    Hi Libby,

    Very nice pieces there! The first necklace and mod flower pendant are my favorites. The combination of sterling silver and polymer clay is wonderful.

    -Amy

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