Mandala Wall Art

About 3 weeks ago I was contacted through my Etsy shop about making one of my polymer clay mandalas. Now, most of my work is small scale. I like to start and finish a project within a short amount of time. That way I can move on to my next project. But I was asked if I could do something bigger. Of course I can (have I ever said no?!)

And so it began. The customer not only wanted it bigger, she also wanted it to be domed. Hum, that got me thinking....what could I use as a base that was round, about 10" across, oven proof, and domed. Think, think, think......I think I'll go to the thrift store and have a look around.

 An old pot lid should do the trick! A few turns of a screw and the handle is off.

I was given the color scheme and made a few canes.

Next step, covering the entire lid with a pale, off-white and then starting in the center with a design.

Nope, not enough negative space. Time for a do over.

Nope, wrong shade of green. Try again.

Making progress.

A few more changes.

Finished!

After about 3 weeks, many e-mails back and forth and lots of changes I was able to create something that both the customer and I were happy with. I hope it adds an interesting and colorful element to her bathroom wall. Something that will be enjoyed for many years! 

light bulb moments

What do you do with your burnt out light bulbs? If you're like most people you throw them out with the trash, right? Now, what do I do with them? Let me give you a hint....I don't throw them away.  Just take a look at this.....

Yep, this is my hoard of used light bulbs! I guess I should feel kind of embarrassed by this but let me tell you why I keep every shape and size bulb. Or better yet, I'll show you.

I'm a little teapot....

seahorse

 bird is the word

clown (not Angry) red bird

rainbow fish ornament

               

snowman ornament

fat cat in the Santa hat ornament

Ice skating ornament, side 1

Ice skating ornament, side 2

All of these that you see here are just light bulbs and polymer clay, that's it. Most I made a few years ago and almost all of them have found new homes.

So you see, there are lots of things you can make with an old burnt out light bulb. I have so many more ideas. Now, if I can just find the time.........