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Friendship quilts are made with blocks contributed by many different hands, and that is how this book went together as well. Ninety artists contributed their art. Some sent in pictures of quilt-themed work for the gallery. Most contributed to the faux-fabric collection that lines the shelves at "Pieces". We asked members of our local guilds and online groups such as Polymer Clay Central to help. By ones, twos, or half a dozen at a time, artists sent in their designs. Beginning with 3 inch by 2 1/2 inch matt-board inserts, each was covered with polymer clay in an astounding array of designs.

Lindly Haunani agreed to present the project to willing participants at Shrinemont, the national guild retreat. To all our surprise and delight, the box of finished bolts weighed a collective 6 pounds and covered an amazing spectrum of polymer clay techniques. For any eye that enjoys textile designs, this collection is a true delight. There are hundreds of bolts of faux fabric, all made of polymer clay. Each just the right size to be held in the hand and inspected. Millefiore cane work, silkscreen, impressions and stampings, extrusions and mokume gane technique are shown in exquisite little samples on each piece. No two are exactly alike. Black and white or multicolored, matte, shining or metallic, tiny prints and big wild designs; all look just like their cloth counterparts. All are wonderful in their own way, and together they create a collection that no one person could form as vividly and with such flair.

Judith and I feel that is true of the book itself, and we are very grateful for all the assistance and cooperation that went into its development. We hope our readers enjoy it and find inspiration throughout the pages for their own projects.

Sarajane Helm
©2007

Adapting Quilt Patterns To Polymer Clay is the new book from polymer clay artisans Judith Skinner and Sarajane Helm.

Judith is best known for her development of the Skinner Blend, a polymer clay color gradient technique used by many artists around the world. Her jewelry is immediately recognized for its casual elegance, and her precise millefiore cane work is a source of amazement to many. Her website is found at: www.judithskinner.com

Sarajane writes magazine articles and web pages, and has published two previous books, Create A Polymer Clay Impression and Celebrations With Polymer Clay. She teaches classes throughout the United States. Her website is found at: www.polyclay.com