Leather & Clay Necklace

Materials

pre-made leather collar*
template or pattern**
Tsukineko Platinum Planet Brilliance pigment ink
Premo metallic and pearl clay: black, pearl green, silver
Art Forward Graphic Designs sheet rubber
Crafter’s Pick Ultimate Tacky Glue
metal crimp closures
magnet or toggle clasp
jump rings
chain nose pliers
Sculpey Super Slicer clay blade
toothpick
acrylic brayer
Leather Sheen (optional)

*or make one using 5-6 oz. veg-tan leather, leather scissors, edge beveller
**trace collar to make a pattern using pencil, tracing paper, scissors

1. Cut pattern of paper. If you aren't using a purchased leather collar: Cut collar out of leather (figure A), positioning to economize leather. Bevel edges with beveller tool to finish front and back edges of collar (figure B).

2. Stamp leather with platinum pigment ink to completely cover the collar with color (figure C). Stamp edges with ink also. Allow to dry.

3. Press on crimp closures and attach findings (figure D).

4. Draw "mosaic" style patterns on the paper to piece on the collar (figure E). Draw freehand or use pattern. Cut out pieces of paper.

5. Condition and mix silver, black and pearl green clay to make a base color. Divide into parts and mix graduated colors by adding more black or pearl to base color. Roll into sheets approx 3/32-inch thick (figure F).

6. Impress with stamps that have deeply defined lines. Slice or shave off the designs in a thin layer horizontally with the Super Slicer Blade (figure G) to reveal the mica shift.

7. Smooth shaved sheets by rolling with acrylic brayer.

8. Cut out shapes using paper template or pattern as guide (figure H). Use toothpick or craft knife to glide through the clay. Remove excess.

9. Coat back of shape with glue and position on leather (figure I).

10. Clasp collar to create curve (figure J) and bake in oven according to manufacturer's directions on package.

Optional: Lightly spray with Leather Sheen to seal leather. This will also add a gloss finish to clay.