Jewelry Journey: The First Bracelet

Polymer clay came into my world about 2016 when I didn’t know what to do to keep myself busy and positive. My mood was constantly low, and I felt that there’s nothing for me to do to feel worthy again after losing my job.

This bracelet was the first one I made for someone special. I only used polymer clay and a thin layer of gloss. People asked if I painted it; no, I didn’t. It is only the clay in different colours that I made canes of. After baking the bracelet, I sanded and buffed it; and then gave it a thin layer of gloss. It took me a long time to make this bracelet. Each time I’m not satisfied with something I rolled it into a ball. That happened more than once I’ll tell you! I remember the one time when I threw the whole shebang in the trash only to get it out later. Then there were the darn clay bubbles. Just as I got rid of the pests with a sharp blade, there they were again! The bubbles form because of air trapped in the clay and you don’t want it. I showed the little pests who’s their boss.

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The whole process from beginning to end was a learning process for me. The darn bracelet gave me tears of frustration, but also fun. And I won’t forget the talks I gave myself. I didn’t think there would be a bracelet to put in a gift box! Oh, and I had to “test” it out first. The bracelet felt light on my wrist and good. Okay, yes, and I felt proud too. It was the first bracelet I made. It was a trial-and-error journey, but I enjoyed it.

The receiver of the bracelet loved it. She was also surprised that nothing else but the clay has been used.

And… another good good thing happened because of this gift! A shop owner saw the bracelet and contacted me. She wanted to know if I’ll be willing to sell my jewelry on consignment. Imagine!

Can you remember the first time you created something? Was it easy and how did you feel with the end product?