I’ve had time off in the last couple weeks to make some new pieces. Also had a couple play days with friends and we not only brainstormed and problem solved on projects but set “challenges” for each other to work on.

My challenges are to make 3 new earring designs (haven’t done that yet) and to design something wearable using a  certain focal bead we both decided on (haven’t done that yet) and to start to work on a new idea for a piece that will take alot of time and thought  (haven’t started on that yet).

I guess you  get the picture of where I am on these “challenges” but hey! I have a bit more time to do them ( 5 days- for the first two) and I have been working on other things . Hopefully will check in again soon with the “challenge pieces”.

So here’s a peak of what I have been making.

I’m looking forward to 2012 unfolding and I wish each of you/all of us a creatively exciting year filled with new ideas brought into bloom. Inspiration abounds everywhere these days- in books, exhibits, online, workshops online and in person and wonderful immersion creative retreats in the US and in other countries and cultures.

My teaching year begins soon and I excited to share all I know. Come join me in Tallahassee for three days of workshops- new ideas, techniques and creative projects to add to your repertoire.  Please contact Barbara at president@polymerclayart.org for all the details.

I just finished a batch of new Les Fleurs brooches. These feature layered polymer clay blends with a vintage French Button gathered at the French flea markets during my summer workshops there. Come join the hunt!