Clay, Colour & Camaraderie: A Joyful Morning of Earring-Making Magic
A few weeks ago I had the pleasure of hosting a 3-hour workshop for Crediton Heart Project at their lovely Arts Centre. They run a varied set of workshops as part of their Arts Week every summer and asked me if I’d be part of it this year. A fabulous group of nine ladies, all eager to dive into the colourful world of polymer clay earrings booked up. And let me tell you - they did not disappoint.
Three Techniques, Endless Possibilities
As I was providing all the tools and materials, we explored three of my favourite techniques that offer maximum impact with minimal fuss:
Marbling: Combining swirling colours, gorgeous blends, and that satisfying moment when the clay reveals its painterly magic.
Confetti Pattern: A joyful explosion of clay colours, like a party on your earlobes.
Metallic Foils: Because who doesn’t love a bit of shimmer? These added a luxe touch that made each piece pop.
I demonstrated each technique, sharing tips and tricks along the way, and then the real fun began - everyone got stuck in, choosing their own colour palettes and earring shapes. The results? Utterly unique. No two pairs were alike, and each one reflected the maker’s personality and flair.
Makers in Action
There’s something magical about watching people create. The room was filled with focused faces, lots of laughter, and the occasional “Ooooh!” as a colour combo came together just right. Some leaned into bold brights, others opted for soft pastels or earthy tones. Shapes ranged from elegant teardrops to playful squiggles, and even a few abstract masterpieces that defied categorisation - in the best way.
By the end of the session, each participant had crafted three pairs of earrings - plus a few bonus pieces because, well, once you start, it’s hard to stop! The table was a glorious mess of clay scraps, foil flakes, and happy hands.
Favourite Moments
One maker declared, “I didn’t think I was creative, but look at these!” while holding up a pair of marbled beauties.
Another said she’d never wear store-bought earrings again.
And my personal favourite: someone whispered, “This is better than therapy.”
Why I Love Workshops
There’s something so special about gathering around a table, sharing materials, ideas, and encouragement. It’s not just about the earrings - it’s about the joy of making, the confidence that grows with each creation, and the connections formed over shared creativity.
I left the workshop feeling inspired, grateful, and already thinking up a new one-day workshop which I could teach regularly in the studio. If you’ve ever wanted to try your hand at polymer clay, come and join a class. You might just surprise yourself - and walk away with pieces that make you feel like a creative powerhouse.