|
Because I am
asked so many questions about my handmade paper and clay beads,
I will answer some of the most common ones here, to help you
have a better understanding of what the beads are all about.
1. How do you make beads from paper?
I select
appropriate pages from old magazines, then cut them into
various size strips, depending on the desired effect. Then I take each strip and begin
rolling it with glue into a secure, tight fit. After, I clear
coat them for added durability.
2. Do
you use a machine?
Scissors, glue and
my fingers. That's it!
3.
Does it take a long time?
It is a little tedious and time
consuming, yes.
4. Are
they flimsy?
No, they are
amazingly strong considering they are paper. The first thing
most people do is try to squeeze them and study them closely -
and then they say "WOW!"
5. Do
they ever unravel?
On a RARE
occasion. Not enough to discredit the concept.
6. Do you use a clear lacquer or other finish?
For the paper
beads, yes. This makes them amazingly strong and durable. I vary
from matte to a high gloss depending on the desired effect.
7. What if the paper beads get wet?
Minimal exposure
to moisture will usually not be a problem. I recommend
that you avoid submerging them in water and always remove any
paper beaded jewelry before bathing, swimming, or other
long-term exposure to water. With proper care, a paper
bead necklace can last for decades.
8. How do you make the Fimo Clay beads?
Again, with only
my hands. I prefer the inconsistent look of a bead made by
hand, with fingerprints engraved into the tedious detail.
Therefore, I do not use any molds. Even the large centerpieces
shaped into hearts and other designs are shaped by hand with
only an old fashioned sculpting tool (i.e. any object within my
reach that will do the job: safety pins, butter knifes,
screw drivers...I've used a variety of objects for this
task over the years). I use a large needle when poking the
holes and they are baked in a conventional oven at the suggested
temperature for the time specified on the package.
9. Are Fimo beads crumbly - do they break easily?
No. I have not had
any problem with this at all.
10. Do you do custom orders?
contact
Sheena
for more information. |
