Monday, January 18, 2010

Clay Transfer Tile Keepsakes




The above keepsakes are two examples of four I was able to finish. Wow, there were alot of trial and error, mistakes and throw-aways on this project. But I am very happy with the end results.

It all started with my love for the art of transfers. I love the look on clay and transparencies. So I tried transferring onto raw clay using the rub off technique, very hard to do without getting smeared toner. Then I followed the directions for using the baking method with this transfer medium. But the best results came from this Sculpey project idea. Heating this medium directly onto the photo then using the rub off technique gave me the best results for this photo. I'm guessing a lighter colored picture wouldn't have such smearing issues with the basic rub off technique that doesn't use a medium at all.


Then I wanted the edges finished so I tried many different ideas. The best results was simply platinum UTEE after a light layer of silver perfect pearls.


This has perfect pearls added with a bit of water and a brush. This looked really nice with the light gold sheer ribbon and jewels as a finished piece. I didn't get pictures before I gave it away.





These smaller tiles were baked with the perfect pearls on the edges.

The techniques for transferring images, getting the images the correct size, no bubbles in especially transparent clay, and use of jewerly pieces, are all new to me. Thank goodness for web-sites that help because I was really amazed at the learning curve and number of pieces I threw away. I have a whole new respect for artists and jewerly makers who sell their goods!!! Mine were for the parents of the owner of these sweet little feet and my daughters who adore their little cousin.
Cindy,a Polymer Clay Tutor has some great tips!!