Archive for March, 2011

PMC and Dichroic Combinations Workshop with Lara Le Reveur

Monday, March 21st, 2011

We’ve just listed another fantastic workshop with the talented Lara Le Reveur.  This is one you definitely don’t want to miss. Limited places available!

An example of what you could create in this unique workshop

Glass makes stunning inclusions in fine silver but requires specialist firing in a programmable kiln to ensure both adequate sintering of the PMC and correct annealing of the glass. In this two session workshop you will learn how to combine PMC with glass using both lump and syringe clay.

On day one you will work on two pieces, using the PMC to create a border around the glass cabochons and a bail.  Dichroic glass and plain glass cabochons are supplied (see below)

On day two you will finish the two workshop pieces to a high shine using the new technique, and patina the piece if desired. 

Throughout the workshop Lara will discuss different aspects of the techniques that have been or are being used, glass types and annealing, kiln use, and different patina processes.   A basic knowledge of how to use PMC is required however keen beginners are encouraged to contact me as we may be able to accomodate you.

Beautiful dichroic glass

Date: Saturday 30th April  AND Sunday 1st May

Time: 10.00am until 1.00pm (Both Days) .  Studio will be open from 9.30am and also after class for those wanting to browse/shop.

Venue: The Whimsical Bead Studio, in Healesville, Vic.  Fully Air-conditioned and Heated. EFTPOS facilities available.

Tutor: Lara Le Reveur – Lara is a Senior Contempory Clay Instructor, a talented metal and polymer clay artist and a regular visiting tutor here at The Whimsical Bead.

 Cost: $130  (Plus Kit – see below) .  Price includes tuition, notes, use of tools, morning tea, tea/coffee.

Please Note:  

You will be required to purchase a kit containing:   9gms of PMC3, a PMC3 Syringe and 2 x  Dichroic/Plain Glass Cabochons.

This kit will be $75.   Alternatively, you are welcome to bring your own PMC3 to the workshop, but you must let us know if you will be doing this when you book in.

All cabochons used in this workshop MUST be purchased from Lara as she needs to test-fire all glass pieces before use. If you are set on using a specific glass cab you are welcome to contact Lara to see if she can test fire it for you before the workshop.

A deposit of $60 is required to secure your position. This deposit is payable by credit card or bank transfer and is non-refundable unless a replacement is found for your position.

Places are strictly limited so book now as they will fill quickly. This workshop will only be held once in 2011.

If you would like to book a position for this workshop, you can do so online, give me a call on 0412 662 179 or send me an email at dani@thewhimsicalbead.com.au . Any questions please just ask!

For those of you who don’t live in the area, this could be the perfect opportunity to come and visit our beautiful town of Healesville. There are lots of things to see and do and plenty of affordable accomodation places.

Healesville.biz  http://www.healesville.biz/ is a great starting point to see what’s available to see and do in town.

Here are some accomodation venues not to far from my studio.

http://www.healesville-motor-inn.com.au/

http://www.sanctuaryhouse.com.au/

http://www.sanctuarypark.com.au/index.html

Whilst you’re in town, make sure you visit Healesville Jewellers. There is no other shop quite like this one. A treasure trove of beautiful things.

For any more information, please don’t hesitate to ask.

Paints, Mica & Polymer Clay

Tuesday, March 15th, 2011

Last weekend I held a workshop on combining paints, inks, foils and mica powders with polymer clay. It was a small class but we all had a great time – I even made a few things – what a surprise!! Here are some pics…….

Everyone looking very busy!

Creating a second batch of beads whilst waiting for the first to come out of the oven.

My finished beads

If you would like to attend this workshop, it looks like we will be running it again in a few months time here at the studio in Healesville, Victoria. Please email me with your availability if you would like to attend.

Forming and Refining COPPRClay

Thursday, March 3rd, 2011

I haven’t had a chance to post until today, but last Sunday The Whimsical Bead held a second COPPRClay workshop taught by talented artist Lara LeReveur.  This workshop was all about not only creating and forming the pieces from COPPRClay but also how to refine them before they were fired. We had a lovely small class which I also joined in with. We had a fabulous day and all created some beautiful copper pieces.  I am thinking I really need to hurry up and get myself a kiln!! Here are some photos from the day.

A great shot of Lara!
Christine, Myself and Karen all working hard…….

Christine, Myself and Karen