Faux Surfaces in Polymer Clay: 30 Techniques & Projects That Imitate Precious Stones, Metals, Wood & More

In her introduction to this well-designed craft book, Dean promises to give readers recipes for an impressive array of imitation effects that use polymer clay, and her book does not disappoint. Each surface is extremely convincing, whether it appears to be bone, malachite, lapis lazuli, tiger-eye, leather, marble or one of the other 30 surfaces shown. The book first presents instructions and photos that show the process of creating a particular surface, then provides a separate project for each effect. The instructions are thorough, and many of these processes are painstaking, involving up to a dozen steps or more. But the end results dazzle, such as the pewter wine stoppers, which look both colonial and new due to clever design, or the cork switch plate, an amusing and relatively easy home accent. Other projects are candlesticks, jewelry, picture frames and similar small items. The book ends with an inspiring gallery of work in polymer crafted by the artists who have shared their techniques and designs with Dean. However, this is not a book for beginners. All of the techniques require an excellent knowledge of working with polymer clay, as well as a budget that can afford purchasing specific tools and materials, such as a pasta machine. (Though Dean says you don't have to have one, she uses one in every recipe.) Readers who qualify will rush to add this volume to their collection. Photos.