Pinterest: Here I come

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Patrik Kusek http://pinterest.com/patriksstudio/

Patrik Kusek http://pinterest.com/patriksstudio/

Well after months of my friends asking me to participate I have finally joined the Pinterest madness! Instead of packing for Bead and Button I’m exploring the joys of Pinterest. This is so VERY addicting. So follow me on Pinterest, check out one of my boards call “my Jewelry” where you’ll find some of my work. I’m just starting out but I know I’ll waste countless hours “researching” ;-) If I find cool things I’ll share them!

You’ll also notice that I have Pinterest buttons on this blog. So now you can share what you find here on Pinterest! I hope this makes it easy to share information with your friends.

On of the things I love about Pinterest is that my students and friends have very similar interests. You all have very keen eyes for great design and also great editing skills. I love seeing what has been pinned and then following that pin to a new blog that would have not discovered on my own.

Tonya Davidson

Tonya Davidson

Speaking of blogs, my friend Tonya Davidson has a great blog entry on Pinterest and a whole site on how to be a successful artist. I read it and I knew I HAD to join the Pinterest revolution! Check out the article at http://www.tonyadavidson.com

 

Eclipse 2012 – Texture Tuesday

2012 EclipseD

2012 EclipseD

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The weekend was packed full of gardening chores and we got the side yard almost completed. We planted few camellias and some gardenias as well as transplanted a whole host of cannalilies. During the end of the day on Sunday something strange happened to the light outside. It turned a little strange. It was the eclipse! I had totally forgotten about it. As kid I was fascinated by it and I guess the kid came out in me and literally ran around screaming to everyone in the house and to our neighbors “It’s it eclipse! It’s it eclipse! ” I noticed that the shadows from the trees and just about everything were a crescent shape. So I got out my trust camera and started snapping pics and videos. Here is what video of the textures I saw that day. Perfect for Texture Tuesday theme of common objects in an unusual arrangement. In this case what should have been a leaf shadow is now a crescent shape.

 

Metal Clay Tools: The Basics – Cards and Slats

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Metal Clay Tools: The Basics - Cards

Metal Clay Tools: The Basics – Cards

The past couple of months have seemed like non-stop traveling with hardly time to change my clothes, let alone clean the studio. ( or answer emails properly ) Don’t get me wrong, I love what I do, I feel like the luckiest guy in the world to be doing what I do, meet the people I meet and actually enjoy my “job”. However, with so much traveling, the studio chores fell by the wayside and a huge mound of stuff got piled high on my work bench and tables. Yesterday I finally got somewhat caught up on my emails, bill paying, invoicing, paper work etc. …well at least to the best of my capabilities. One can only do so much office work without going batty.

So into the studio I trekked. My tables seemed like a Jackson Pollack painting made of jewelry findings, jewelry tools and metal clay supplies. Not one square inch of table top was visible. A couple of hours later I had made progress. During my cleaning frenzy, I came across a box that I hadn’t seen in a long while. Inside I found my first set of metal clay tools and the set of cards that I used. I had forgotten about them, but they immediately brought back memories of making metal clay jewelry in my walk-in closet studio in San Francisco. So I thought it would make good post for people just starting out and even those of use who have experience.

When I teach the Rio Reward Certification Class I tell my students that you don’t need to buy every new tool on the market. Sometimes the simple things work the best. But I also advise them to spend money on good quality tools. If you buy a good quality tool it can last a very long time. But I digress, back to the cards.

Metal Clay Tools: The Basics - Cards

Metal Clay Tools: The Basics – Cards

Cards are used by metal clay artists and polymer clay as a way to roll out clay to a uniform thickness. Stack an equal amount of cards on each side of the clay and then use a roller to roll out the clay. The cards prevents the roller from making uneven thicknesses. They also are used to communicate with other metal clay artists how thick to roll the clay. The cards are such a simple solution and were my favorite for years. As you can see in the close up photo I taped the cards together to prevent them from slipping. At first I tried regular Scotch tape but they came undone after a few days. So I came up with the idea of using packing tape. An elegant solution that added very little thickness and didn’t come undone. Simply wrap the stack of cards once with the tape and Viola! To further enhance ease of use I also use the corresponding card number to face outward on the taped stack. For 5 cards thick, I used the 5 of hearts and so on. This made finding the correct thickness very easy.

Then I found the graduated slats.

Metal Clay Tools: The Basics - Slats

Metal Clay Tools: The Basics – Slats

I was happy using the cards, until I found the slats. Encouraged by a friend I try them out and have never looked back. They are color coded to indicate the various thicknesses. Most of my jewelry is on the large side of drama. The slats provide me with lots of room to roll out longer sections of clay. They also do not slip and side around like cards do.

Metal Clay Tools: The Basics - Slats

Metal Clay Tools: The Basics – Slats

I highly recommend using the slats for both beginners and those with more experience. You won’t regret it. Most metal clay supply companies like Rio Grande and Whole Lotta Whimsy carry them.

All that being said, some great things can be made with the simplest of tools. After all I did win first place in the 2007 Saul Bell competition metal clay division by using yes, the simple inexpensive and humble cards. Make something great today.

botanical bracelet Patrik Kusek Saul Bell Winner 2007

botanical bracelet Patrik Kusek Saul Bell Winner 2007

Stonesetting in metal clay

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If you are looking for an interesting way to set stones in metal clay and if you are a subscriber to Art Jewelry Magazine check my article. It’s a this link

Patrik-Kusek-metal-clay-bezels.ashx

Patrik-Kusek-metal-clay-bezels

http://art.jewelrymakingmagazines.com/Projects/Subscriber%20Projects/2011/09/Frame%20stones%20in%20Metal%20Clay%20Bezels.aspx

Also I still have room in my classes at the Bead and Button Show. Sign up today.

Intro to PMC, Nest Rings, Shrine Pendant, Tendril Ring, Metal Clay and Polymer Clay

Check out this video of my classes.

Bead and Button Show 2012 – Patrik Kusek

Bead and Button Show 2012 – Patrik Kusek

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Preping for Bead and Button 2012 Metal Clay Classes!

Bead&ButtonShow Patrik Kusek- Metal Clay Classes

Bead&ButtonShow Patrik Kusek- Metal Clay Classes

I’m so excited to be teaching at Bead and Button Show again. It’s always such a great time with lots of learning and lots of fun things to see. Plus I’ll be with my tribe, like minded individuals who are mad about jewelry!

Today I’m finishing up my handouts and samples for the show. If you are taking one of my classes you’ve landed in the right spot!

*** I will have one kiln available for sale after my last class on Thursday the 7th. If you are interested in buying it please email me or see me at the show. Regular price is $665 on discounted price of $560.00. This is a new kiln and will have only been used during the show. Box, manual and warranty included. See kiln info here.***

ALSO!! Candace Gates of Dynasty Stamps will be providing my students will with a surprise gift!  She is the best! So exciting!

Please do read the list of required tools for the classes. They are broken up into two section. 1) Generic metal clay tools that required for all metal clay classes except for Intro to PMC. 2) Class specific tools. 3) Please notify me if you think you might like to buy extra clay so I will be sure to have adequate supplies.

1) Generic Tools need for every metal clay class (except for Intro to PMC ) Please be sure to bring this as I will not have extra.

Basic PMC Tool Kit

Work surface, Roller, Playing Cards (or graduated slats ), Lubrication – Olive oil, Badger Balm, etc, Craft knife, Burnisher, Assortment of drinking straws, Pin Tool or Awl, Tissue Blade, Brass Brush, Clay Shaper, Paint Brush and cup or Waterbrush, Tweezers, Sanding Sponges in various grits

Helpful to have but not necessary

Spray bottle with water, Emery boards, Jewelers files, Optivisor, Light, Texture plates, pen and paper for notes, water and snacks to keep our energy up!

2) Specific tools for your class

Patrik Kusek, Metal Clay Bird's Nest Ring Bead and Button Show

Patrik Kusek, Metal Clay Bird’s Nest Ring Bead and Button Show

A) Birds Nest Ring Class – June 3, 9:00 to 5:30-FAC 101A 

Basic PMC Tool Kit, Wooden ring mandrel with stand, either stepped mandrel or tapered. These can be found at most metal clay supply houses. Whole Lotta Whimsy has these ring mandrels. or something similar. Ring size protectors or Hattie’s Patties. Here is a link for a set of ring protectors but they are available in individual sizes. ( Please buy your actual ring size ), Textures Plates shallow ones work the best

Patrik Kusek - Metal Clay Shrine Class - Bead and Button Show 2012

Patrik Kusek – Metal Clay Shrine Class – Bead and Button Show 2012

B) Shrine Pendant with Resin – June 4,  9 to 5:30 FAC101A

Basic PMC Tool Kit, Shallow Texture Plates, Items to embed in resin Small dried item work the best, leaves, moss, sea shells (just remember they must fit into the tiny spaces of the pendant ) anything from hardware store finds to ephemera and photos. Be creative! If you bring photos or ink jet printouts please spray seal them with Acrylic Matte Medium, or Crystal Clear or some other type of spray lacquer before class. This will create a barrier to protect the ink jet printout or photo. However, old paper from 1920 and earlier if not sealed will produce a transparent look.

Tendril Ring Class, Patrik Kusek, Bead and Button Show 2012

Tendril Ring Class, Patrik Kusek, Bead and Button Show 2012

C) Tendril Ring – June 5,  9:00 to 5:30 FAC Show Floor 19

Basic PMC Tool Kit, Wooden ring mandrel with stand, either stepped mandrel or tapered. These can be found at most metal clay supply houses. Whole Lotta Whimsy has these ring mandrels. or something similar. Textures Plates shallow ones work the best, Snake Roller Available at this link TL681 Coil/Snake Roller (no handle) or equivalent.

Ring size protectors or Hattie’s Patties. One of these are included in your kit fee however, you will need to email me your size as soon as possible. Please do so ASAP so that I can be sure to have them on hand. If I do not hear from you I cannot guarantee that I will have your size. Please put B&B Ring Size in the subject line of your email. 

Into to PMC - Patrik Kusek - Bead and Button 2012

Into to PMC – Patrik Kusek – Bead and Button 2012

D) Intro to PMC – June 6, 8:00 to 3 – FAC Show Floor 19

No tools needed. Everything is included, just bring your imagination! The sample above is a sample of what can be made during class. You can follow along or make up your own design! We are going to have fun in this class!

Eclipse Pendant Class - Patrik Kusek - Bead and Button

Eclipse Pendant Class – Patrik Kusek – Bead and Button

E) Eclipse Pendant – June 7, 8:30 to 3:30 – FAC Show Floor 19

Basic PMC Tool Kit, Doming forms (ping pong balls cut in half, or metal clay round doming forms ), Polymer Clay work surface, 1 pack Polymer Clay you choice of color or brand. 1 Pack Translucent Polymer Clay any brand. The original class description called for bringing a pasta machine, but I understand that traveling with a pasta machine can be awkward. The project can be completed by hand rolling the polymer clay but if you have hand mobility issues please do bring a pasta machine or plan using mine in class. However, please know that you might have to wait to use the machine.

Please feel free to email me with questions.

See you at the show!

Patrik

Hey that’s my ring in the mail!

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Metal clay and resin rings by Patrik Kusek

Metal clay and resin rings by Patrik Kusek

Yesterday I walked out to get the mail and was pleasantly surprised. It was a postcard from Rio Grande promoting PMC Sterling featuring my ring was in my mailbox!! Sooo cool!  It’s always so exciting to see my work in print and on the web! Of course I knew that they were going to be using the ring but how, when and where was up to them! The same thing happened when I won the Saul Bell Award in 2007. The image of my bracelet kept popping up everywhere, it was so much fun! 2007 Patrick_Final

If you wanna learn how to make the ring visit www.craftcast.com to buy the step-by-step video recording. Speaking of CraftCast tonight Brenda Schweder is doing a class on using jigs. Sign up right this second if you want to learn live otherwise buy the recording. Ok got to sign on to watch Brendas class, it should be fun!

http://www.craftcast.com/rendition.large/classes/Low-tech%20Jig%203_450.jpg

Dance a Little JIG with Brenda Schweder

Wednesday May 9, 2012

Join us May 9th, LIVE Online, at 8:00pm ET with the queen of wire,
Ms. Brenda Schweder!

Brenda Schweder is back for another inspiring 90 minute LIVE event to demonstrate her technique for creating wire jewelry.

Ms. Schweder is known for her wire wrangling techniques, turning yards of simple steel wire into fashionable and fabulous creations.
Get tips and techniques for how you can get started or increase your skills with this inexpensive material.
Learn to set up a jig and create unique urban influenced pieces, plus how to add additional mixed media elements to create a eye catching unique piece!

Plus, Brenda will answer your questions during the LIVE Q & A. 

Included with the cost of class is a link to download the
FULL CLASS RECORDING, so you can watch again and again.


Learn to create lots of interesting links in no time with a hand-made jig.


Brenda will demonstrate the steps to make this urban chain link cuff.


See how to create your own special “Chatelaine” using unique collectibles.


Learn to bend and connect wire to make a selection of classic chains.
COVERED IN THIS CLASS:

• Getting started wrangling steel wire

 Learn to master the art of forming rings, circles, and right angles with steel wire

• Creating a “chain link” patterned cuff

• How to create today’s urban Chatelaine

• Construction and assembly of the “honeycomb” pattern linked chain

PLUS ways to add your mixed media elements to personalize your piece

Included with the cost of class is a link to download thFULL CLASS RECORDING,  so you can watch again and again. 
Once you pay for class you will be sent a link to download a PDF that contains all the information you need to join us for class.  Follow the simple instructions to register and you will receive automatic email reminders about your upcoming class.  

Brenda Schweder is a jewelry designer, author, teacher, and creativity coach. she has written three do-it-yourself books: Steel Wire Jewelry (Lark Jewelry & Beading), and Junk to Jewelry and Vintage Redux (Kalmbach Publishing Company). Her designs and fashion jewelry forecasts have been published over 100 times in books and magazines, including: Chains, Chains, Chains, each of the 30 Minute Jewelry series, Art Jewelry, BeadStyle, Wirework, Step by Step Wire, Steampunk Style Jewelry, BUST, and various others. Schweder pens Creative Minds for Wirework magazine and is a CREATE YOUR STYLE with Swarovski Elements Ambassador.
Visit her website at www.BrendaSchweder.com and catch her on Etsy, Facebook and Twitter.

 

Make your own custom stamp for metal clay with an eraser.

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Metal Clay stamp making

Metal Clay stamp making

By request of Kathleen at Chain Weavers.

If you have ever wanted to make your own custom texture stamps for metal clay or polymer clay here is an inexpensive, yet perfect solution! If this looks familiar it’s the same eraser that we use in the Rio Rewards PMC Certification Course. Carves smoothly, is compact and who doesn’t love that we are using it from something other than erasing!

Visit www.dickblick.com now through May 16th for their sale. (click on the link to support this site)

Carving for metal clay

Carving for metal clay

For tips on carving see my post here

http://woodlandchic.net/woodland-chic-book-files/braceletback-2

Looking forward to the PMC Conference!

PMC Conference

Spoon Making race – Hey they weren’t pretty but we won the race!

It was a great time here in Albuquerque! We were very productive and I’m looking forward to spending some time at home. While I was at the airport I bumped into Tim and Terry. The subject of the PMC Conference came up and Tim reminded me of one the first ever PMC Spoon making race! I was on the winning team!

Check out this article on Art Jewelry Magazine website

 

Day two of the Rio Grande Senior Retreat

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Everybody do jazz hands!

Day two

What a great way to start the morning with this fun and creative group. Willing to humor me with my jazz hands request! Spent the morning working with these guys. I’m so lucky to have them in my life!

Special appearance by Mark Nelson, you might have seen him on Baubles and Beads. Nice of him to drop by and visit. Then Kevin Whitmore PMC product manager stopped by as well to check in on our progress.

Santa Fe by Patrik Kusek

Santa Fe

After lunch we all went on a field trip to Santa Fe! Had a wonderful time exploring the square and seeing some of the local artists. Stopped off at Patina Gallery

Saw some beautiful jewelry, simply amazing gallery space and such talented artists! Saw some of Ford and Forlano’s work. Soooo cool. This place is a must see if you are visiting Santa Fe. A must for both jewelry artists and jewelry fan!

Patina Gallery, Santa Fe

Patina Gallery, Santa Fe

Ended the day with dinner at The Shed The food at The Shed is a unique cuisine which mixes Pueblo, Spanish and Mexican influences. YUM! If you want to have a little taste of Santa Fe delivered to your door order some chiles, they even come with recipes.

Excellent day at Rio Grande

Barbara, Tim, Thomas, Tonya

Rio Grande Rio Rewards Senior Retreat. Babara Becker Simon, Tim McCreight and Thomas FloresDay One

The first say is always fun. Coming back to Rio is like having a family reunion. I’m so grateful it’s like seeing old friends and catching up on each other’s new projects. Saw Virginia and Gail, some of you might know them as the voice behind the phone at Rio Rewards program. Among other things they organized the events including the Rio Rewards program. If you signed up for the Rio Rewards program before Nate came on board they were the ones you talked to!

Spent the majority of the day talking business and working in the studio. A fun and productive day. It’s an exciting time to be working with metal clay!

That night we were invited to dinner with Alan Bell and his lovely wife. Seasons was the best! I recommend the calamari and the New York steak. Good food, lively conversation, what else can a guy ask for!

Looking forward to seeing the employee Saul Bell award winners. Check out the Rio facebook page to see the winning PMC design.

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