Having the Blues

When I first started working with polymer clay, I tried really hard to get the colors I wanted using the colors in the clay, mixing them. And using the liquid polymer clay with colors and powders mixed in. And sometimes I had a breakthrough with the clay and figured out some ways of working with its colors.

But I had trouble getting the shades and values I wanted, and the subtle color changes. The layering and the fading, the worn look.

I hesitated to use acrylics to paint onto the polymer clay "blanks" that I made.

Somehow that felt like cheating, taking a shortcut. Not proper.

No matter how hard I tried I really couldn't seem to get the look I saw in my mind's eye.

I really admire folks who work with polymer clay that way, blending and mixing the clay's own colors to get the look they seek. That must be very satisfying and exciting.


Finally I got off my soapbox with myself, and started using acrylic paint, just as if I was painting on paper or canvas. Like on this little tag, for a handbag or carryon luggage, or for a charm to hang on something. The blues and greens appearing and fading, the hint of wear and time on the reverse side.


I decided it was NOT cheating, it was just another way of getting a look. The look I wanted. Therefore, it was proper and acceptable, another way of working.

Do you ever get hung up on "the right way" to do things and hold yourself back from trying something?

I hope I'm not the only one that struggles with these questions... it's often so liberating to cut the bindings and just plow ahead!