Morrisburg Polymer Clay Gathering 2011

Before you leave...

2011-03-29T06:46:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!

We are almost there, less than two week to go: our yearly clay fest is about to begin.

Schedule

Thurs: April 7
Afternoon - Arrival and Set-up
6:00 - Dinner
7:30 - Welcome and project set-up
Margi Laurin: Making and assembling a pen

Fri April 8
7:30 - Breakfast
8:30 - Gera Scott-Chandler: Inspired by Klimt
10:30- Barbara Colautti: Natasha beads
12:00 - Lunch
1:30 - Georgia Ferrell: Making a silver or copper bezel
3:00 - Christine Hubbard: Foil bead necklace
4:30 - Happy hour
6:00 - Dinner
7:30 - Janice Van Beek: Large vessels with snug fitting lids

Sat April 9
7:30 - Breakfast
8:30 - Gera Scott-Chandler: An introduction to UV resin
10:30 - Louise Gagné: Face cane 3-D doll
12:00 Lunch
1:30 - Gaby Orbach - Pandora beads
3:00 - Sandy Willis - Easy extruder spiral cane
4:30 - Happy hour
6:00 - Dinner
7:30 - Cathy Malcolmson - Raku for you

Sun April 10
7:30 - Breakfast
8:30 - Ohhhs and Ahhhs
10:30 - Putting it all together (mosaic)
Return on the gathering, opinions etc.

Last checklist

Basic clayers kit
Materials for each class
Driving instructions and phone numbers
Books and magazines, for the library (optional)
Table de Junque: a great opportunity to recycle (optional)
Shop, Hawk and Gawk: we want to see what you make (optional)
Canes and beads for swaps (optional)
Smile (not optional)

How to get to Morrisburg

From the 401 take exit 750 at Morrisburg. Follow signs to town about 1km
from highway overpass. (You will be turning RIGHT into town if you are
coming from Toronto, and LEFT into town coming from Montreal). Turn left at
the lights and drive another 1 km approx. On the left side of the road, you
will see the MacIntosh Inn. It is well marked and you will already have seen
the signs directing you to it. Drive safely!

The Hotel number is: 613-543-3788
Margi and Leslie will be around and the contact person to speak to at the Inn is
Patsy.

When You Arrive

Someone at the front desk will direct you to the conference room and give you your keys and room number. You may want to drop your “stuff” off so you don’t have to lug it upstairs or downstairs.

THE MOST IMPORTANT THING TO REMEMBER IS THAT WE ALL WANT TO RELAX AND HAVE FUN!!

You will receive a folder upon arrival with schedule, room list, as well as some useful information about the town.

This is YOUR event. You have paid for all of the demos, it is your choice whether to attend them or not. If you feel you have too much on your plate, or that a demo may not be beneficial to you, you may opt out and go for a long lunch or a nap or a Jacuzzi. (You need to book Jacuzzi times with the front desk.)

Or you may want to continue working on something that has piqued your interest. And even though you may choose to work on something else, you will benefit just from listening. The instructors will be willing to answer questions and help you any time you need it, not only during their class time.

This is our tenth MPCG gathering and we feel every one has been very successful. If you have any questions, concerns or comments, come directly to Margi or Leslie. We will do our very best to help you.

PS from Violette: as a procrastinator, I left this for the very end hoping things would change or something magical would happen....not!! I will not be able to attend Morrisburg this year: the dates just don't work for me. Everybody is fine but there is a lot of family stuff going on right now. I don't have a ride to get me to Morrisburg. At this point I have to be happy that I was able to make it nine times. I feel bad that I leave Margi on her own, but wait..... Leslie will take over; she knows most of the ropes and she will be a great right hand lady for Margi. It is just a timing issue. I'm going to miss you all but I will be back next year with bells and whistles. So, please have a great time, enjoy, share, and don't forget to laugh.

Some more important information

2011-03-01T11:51:00.000-08:00

Hi there everyone,

I am sending this right after yesterday's email because I want to get as much information as possible to you before I leave. I am going to Cuba and the sun for a couple of weeks and will be back around March 20. From here to March 20, please refer to Margi if you need any info or have questions. However, send messages to both of us. I am not sure of the internet connections down there.

The Gathering is going to happen in little over a month! The dates are earlier this year. This message is a reminder of other things you can bring along with you to share, show or sell.

LIBRARY: once again we ask for your cooperation for the reading table; we all like to read and if you have any magazines or books of interest, please bring them along. They don’t necessarily need to be clay related: anything to inspire will do the trick. Please mark the books/magazines you bring so that they can be returned to you.

TABLE DE JUNQUE: how about making a special effort for the table. In this time of recycling, take a good look at all your clay related tools/supplies. There are a lot of things that you don’t use and won’t use. Why don’t you give them to someone who will? We can’t think of a better way of sharing. We all have stuff lying around begging to be used…by someone else!! Think about it. There are always little treasures to be found on that table.

SHOP HAWK AND GAWK: if you have anything to show and tell we would be happy to see it (doesn’t have to be for sale). Just bring anything you are proud of or maybe things you want input on. And if you have stuff to sell, we will set up a table like in the years past.
Mark each item with your name and price.
You are responsible for the sale (i.e. receipt, taking cash,
packaging etc).
We will have an area assigned, but if you have special display requirements, please bring them.

CANES: Do you have canes that are never-ending? Why don’t you bring them along to exchange? that way, you will have a greater variety of canes to work with. The more canes, the merrier. This has worked well in the last three years and we want to do it again this year.

BEADS: Do you want to swap beads?, bring some with you to exchange.

If you have any ideas you want to share, please go right ahead. The information we gave you will be uploaded to the Morrisburg blog. http://www.mpcg09.blogspot.com
Once again, we are anticipating a super weekend of learning, laughter and lots of claying. Don’t forget to bring your smile and energy because we plan to have some fun.

You will be receiving driving directions and phone numbers etc. closer to the date.

Margi and Vio

1-PS: I forgot to mention that Gera will have metal leaf sheets available for $1 each.
I also added to Georgia's description and materials needed.

2-PS: PLEASE NOTE: Margi will also be doing a demo and the details can be found in the demo list that was published yesterday.

MPCG 2011 What to bring

2011-02-28T11:07:00.000-08:00

Morrisburg Polymer Clay Gathering 2011

The polymer clay gathering at Morrisburg Ontario will be held from Thursday April 7th to Sunday April 10th. We have an exciting program lined up for you. So put on your traveling shoes, pack a smile and come and join us. Fun and learning guaranteed.

N.B. There are a few open spots left. If you are interested in coming, please communicate with Margi Laurin at this address: margilaurin@sympatico.ca

There will be some great demos to inspire you and jog your creativity.
Here is a list of some demos and what you will need to bring if you want to try them.
Not in any specific order....

Janice Van Beek
Large Vessels with Snug Fitting Lids

The tools required are 2 sheets of regular paper (like from a printer), a sheet of cotton rag paper ( i will bring it since it is hard to find), a 6" length of cardboard mailing tube 3"diameter and a glue stick or double sided tape.
.................................................

Gera Scott-Chandler
Inspired by Klimt

Materials:
basic clay supplies
metal leaf sheets*
optional glitter
*gera will have metal leaf sheets available for $1 each

An Introduction to UV Resin
UV Resin- all brands are fine*
Bezels (metal or polymer clay)
sewing needle
mini torch- optional

*gera will have 1 oz sample bottles of UV resin and assorted bezels available for sale
.......................................................

Gaby Orbach
Pandora Beads

Tools/Materials - Kato Polyclay and Kato Liquid Polyclay (KLP)
- heat gun
- soft paint brushes
- stylus
- metal knitting needle or bamboo skewer
- eyelets
..................................................

Sandy Willis
Easy Extruder Spiral Cane

Tools required are the Makins Green Extruder (I don't know if other ones will work) and 3 colours of clay.
........................................................

Christine Hubbard
Foil Bead Necklace

Materials
Black Premo about 4 oz
Jones tone foils
Scrap clay
small silver beads about 1\8", approx 45,optional
clasp
crimp beads
Bead stringing material

Tools
Kemper cutters, any shape, for cutting consistent sizes
Bone folder or credit card
Popsicle sticks
Needle tool
......................................................................

Louise Gagné
Face Cane 3-D Doll

Materials:
A face cane
Skin coloured clay or any colours that goes with your face cane if you still have some from last year.
Wire or paper clip
Any colour clay for decorations hat, hair, etc.
A few tooth picks.
If you want to finish the doll add scrap clay and canes.
***Wire if you want to make it move. Jewelry tools.***
and as a bonus:
Faux jeans: jeans and any colour clay
Faux perfecto ( leather jacket) :Black clay, wire
..................................................................................

Barbara Colautti
Natasha Beads

Materials: stubby ends of canes, raggy bits of clay left over from projects.

A really, REALLY sharp tissue blade.

Two small, round, Kemper-style cutters, one smaller than the other.

That's it and all about it !
.....................................................................

Cathy Malcolmson
Raku For You
楽焼

History
Raku ware - The term Raku means "enjoyment" or "ease”. In the 16th century, a Japanese tea master had a tile-maker who produced tea bowls for use in tea ceremonies. They were made from red clay and had a seal bearing the Chinese character for Raku. Raku then became the name of the family that produced the wares. This is the only example in the history of a family name becoming synonymous with the ceramics they produced. Fourteen generations of the "Raku" family of potters continue to make the pottery.

Description
Raku is a Japanese pottery technique that coats rough-surfaced clay with metallic washes that is then fired in a wood-fired kiln. Different glazing techniques are used with earth clay. Many glazes have a lot of copper oxide in them resulting in a metallic or copper matte finish. Other glaze ingredients cause purple and blue colours and sometimes silver based glazes are used. Potters often use specially formulated glaze recipes that "crackle" or craze (present a cracked appearance), because the crazing lines take on a dark colour from the carbon.

Project Ideas

Beads
Pendants
Covered boxes or vases
Tiles
Book covers

Supplies - For the paints and powders please just bring supplies you already have as you won't use all of these.

When you gather your supplies think Raku colours – Cobalt blue, green, violet, copper and aqua
Clay – Copper, Black, Dark Brown or scrap, White and Ecru
Pearl Ex or metallic powders – copper, spring green, flamingo pink, violet
Sealant such as Future floor wax
Interference metallic acrylic paints (blue, violet, red, orange, green, gold)
Iridescent acrylic paints (bronze, gold, and copper)
Black acrylic paint
Gel Medium
Golden Acrylic Micaceous Iron Oxide - 4oz jar (not the small bottle labeled fluid)
Stipple paintbrush or other very stiff brush or a tooth brush and regular small paint brush
Course sand paper / sanding sponge
Plain white bond paper
Small stamps with basic designs
Texture sheets
Small piece of styrofoam and toothpicks (if making beads)
.........................................................................

Georgia Ferrell
Basic Silversmithing - Creating a Bezel of Silver

In this demo I will show you how to cut bezel wire, solder the bezel shape, saw a base and solder the base to the bezel. One can use a bezel without a base, and solder silver strips to hold in the clay. On can drill thru the silver for adding jump rings, or solder half rings to the bezel (an advanced skill). Copper can also be used, although I am not yet certain if I can provide copper bezel wire.

Steps for making the bezel ring:
1. design your shape. Cut the bezel wire to length plus about1/16 inch for filing to flat.
2. use a file or sand paper to make the ends of the wire perfectly flat so that when held to each other there is no absolutely no air space --- solder will NOT fill a void.
3. depending on the shape you choose, you can make the shape and then solder, or you can solder and then
bend the bezel to shape.
4. if you are putting a back on the bezel with solder, you must use hard solder to solder the joint of the bezel
ring, and medium or soft solder for soldering the back to the ring.
5. put the ring on the fire brick and hold its shape with either baling wire or pins. In a little depression on the
brick, place a little snippet of solder, heat until it becomes a ball.make several balls in case one or two get
lost…place the little ball inside the bezel right at the bottom of the join, flux it all and then put the torch
flame on the work, moving it about so that the entire bezel is heated.
Materials list to make a bezel:
Strip of silver, or copper about 3/16 to ¼ inch wide, about 4 inches long
Flat piece of either copper or silver if a back to the bezel is wanted, or strips
Flux, solder, pins or baling wire,
Fire brick, torch

Kit I can provide for $7.00 up: copper, strip of silver bezel wire, flux, solder, torch fuel etc. a length of 4 inches will provide a round bezel one inch in diameter. The kit is made for this size bezel. If you want a larger bezel, please let me know. Cost for silver bezel wire goes up about $1.00 per inch.

I provide: torches, firebrick, pickle, pins

If you can bring your own files, fine flat and rounded or flat on one side and rounded on the other or all
Sand paper coarse and fine al tho this is mostly available

Please email me privately if you have any questions. HYPERLINK "mailto:igeorgiad@gmail.com" igeorgiad@gmail.com

NOTE: if you want a kit with 4 inches of silver bezel wire etc. please let me know. I will have some sheet silver, some sheet copper and hopefully copper bezel wire to sell also. Thanks.
.....................................................
Margi Laurin
Pen demo

Use your new found techniques and create a One of a Kind fountain or ball point pen. Margi will give you the ins and outs and do's and don'ts of pen making. You will be able to take advantage of the pen press throughout the weekend and have a functional and beautiful object d'art to take home. If you wish to purchase pen parts from Margi, she will be ordering the "Flat top Chrome Ball Point" and "Flat Top Chrome Fountain" Pen parts from Lee Valley Tools. Please respond to this email and MAKE SURE "PENS" is in the subject line. If your message is mixed in with another message about MPCG it WILL GEt LOST. I restrict my pens to these two models as it allows me to get the bulk price. These pens are 10.80 for one, 8.50 if you buy 10 and 7.75 if you buy 25. I would suspect we would be paying 8.50 presuming there is a split between ball point and fountain. You are welcome to purchase your own pen and bring it with you, but you will pay the single price. There will be HST. Final price to be determined by numbers.
REMEMBER: make sure PENS is in the subject line, and specify fountain or ball point.

.................................................................

While we are at it, here is :

The basic clayer's kit

Clay of your choice,
pasta machine (no motor),
work surface,
tissue blade,
knife or scraper,
roller,
wet/dry sand paper,
note taking and drawing materials,
index cards,
paper towels,
texturing materials,
modeling tools such as knitting needles or what you like to use,
piercing tools,
x-acto knife,
mould release,
glue,
smile.

Morrisburg 2010 - the pictures

2010-05-16T12:15:00.001-07:00

Voilà some pictures taken at the MPCG 2010.

The Inn!

Morrisburg is a fun and relaxing event! Party gals have fun!

Some are concentrated...

Specially the newbies!

Some are not concentrated! Outch my finger tips!

And others are distracted by the camera.

A chaotic workplace; I hid the owner to protect her reputation!

Margi actually made something; I read that when you make faces, you usually represent yourself!

He He

Family picture.

If you take my picture, I'll take yours (at the same time)!

Putting the mosaic together in the honeymoon suite. Phew! It is going to work.

The mosaic completed thanks to the work of all participants who made a clay tile. It is reversible; on one side it is called "Vegetables in a Bowl" on the other side, "The Gardener". Made in 1590 by Giuseppe Arcimboldo

Fanny found herself a man!

Group photo.

This last picture is to imprint in your brain this familiar "scene" and to condition you to come back next year!!!

Face cane information

2010-04-24T12:08:00.000-07:00

Louise did an exhaustive research on face cane sites that can be found. She sent me the following text to be published on the blog.
Merci Louise pour ton travail minutieux.

Face cane links

General info

http://www.glassattic.com/polymer/MainPages/faces_caned.htm

Blogs :

If you want a blog by an artist that does stupendous elaborate face canes
http://www.julieeakes.blogspot.com/
and see her photobucket for more inspirations
http://s541.photobucket.com/albums/gg370/julieeakes/face%20canes/?action=view¤t=face6.jpg

Another blog on face canes
http://polymerclayetc.com/?p=1076
She has a video on making face canes and side face canes. You can buy it at her etsy shop.
For those of you who don’t know what to do with the face cane she gives a lot if ideas.
http://www.etsy.com/shop/AliceStroppel

General: many face cane tutorials

http://www.sculpey.com/projects/archives/witch-face-cane-lesson witch cane
http://www.pcpolyzine.com/0212dec/0212facecane.html
http://www.pcpolyzine.com/0210october/0210cheek.html
http://www.polymerclaycentral.com/cyclopedia/simplefacecane_jan.html
http://www.beadyeyedbrat.com/tutescanes.html
http://bluefrogclay.com/face%20cane/index1.htm
http://ristellebircole.canalblog.com/archives/2008/11/30/11578194.html French
http://www.tokensbeads.com/education.htm

Packing the face cane ( in French but look it up , many links)
http://www.123-tutoriels.com/out.php?id=49
in French another tutorial in pictures.
http://lamagiedesdoigts.canalblog.com/

For inspiration
http://www.tokensbeads.com/facecanegallery.htm
http://www.claysquared.com/StudentPolymerClaywork.htm
http://www.thumbprintsartwear.com/tier_3/faceartwear/table_face_artwear.html
http://claysquared.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=CTGY&Category_Code=Girls-SM
http://www.polymerclaycentral.com/claypen_canes2.html many types of face canes and other canes
http://polymerclaycentral.com/pcc/swapethnicfb.html
http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l163/DianeBB/canes/34efd299.jpg
http://www.polyclay.com/moon.htm
http://houda7.canalblog.com/archives/2007/09/05/6116314.html French
http://jefoju.canalblog.com/archives/2008/02/22/8053873.html French
http://maniguette.canalblog.com/archives/2008/07/29/10070126.html French a manga face
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=39152724&ref=sr_gallery_14&&ga_search_query=polymer&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_page=47&includes[]=tags&includes[]=title

Michael Jackson in black and white
http://www.polymerclaydaily.com/michael_jackson_cane.html

Skull and bones
http://chloefimo.canalblog.com/archives/2009/11/28/15954718.html French
http://medusacreations.canalblog.com/archives/2006/10/31/3879461.html French

Complex face canes and components:
http://www.thumbprintsartwear.com/tier_3/caning/caning_table.html
http://florenceboheme.canalblog.com/archives/tuto_a_la_bobo_/index.html French look at the different components used.
http://cristalline.blogspot.com/2008/02/tuto-sans-parole-la-fin.html

Complex eye cane
http://beadyeyedbrat.com/eyetute.html

http://www.kerstinsfimoseite.de/fimo/Augencane_engl.html

http://www.dancinghanddesigns.com/EyeCane.html

http://www.finger-tips.co.il/projects/fimo/galil-face.asp Israël

http://xtine.ifrance.com/xtine/tutorialoeil.html French

http://xtine.ifrance.com/xtine/ French

http://www.kerstinsfimoseite.de/fimo/ German

lip cane
http://www.pcpolyzine.com/0209september/lipcane.html

face cane complex: Japanese man
http://www.janetfarris.com/images/kabuki_step_1.jpg

http://www.janetfarris.com/images/kabuki_step_2.jpg

Face with hair Complex ( French)
http://cristalline.blogspot.com/2008/02/tuto-sans-paroles.html

Face cane with shading ( French)
http://petitpoucet.canalblog.com/tag/tutoriel

Puca ( little girl) French
http://paroledepate.canalblog.com/archives/canes_tutos/p20-0.html under April 28 , 2008

African face cane ( French)

http://paroledepate.canalblog.com/archives/canes_tutos/p10-0.html

Strange face (French)
http://rerechatigre.canalblog.com/archives/tuto_cane/index.html

Side face cane ( French)
http://medusacreations.canalblog.com/archives/argile_canne_techno_tutoriels/p10-0.html

What to do with a face cane
http://medusacreations.canalblog.com/archives/argile_canne_techno_tutoriels/index.html
( French)
http://www.hgtv.com/crafting/polymer-clay-face-bead-watch/index.html watch bracelet
http://home.online.no/~raje/Polymer/pins/women.html
http://polyclay.com/beads.htm
http://the.honoluluadvertiser.com/dailypix/2001/Jun/04/il01a1_b.jpg
http://www.polymerclaycentral.com/pcc/featurepics/chris13.jpg
http://www.babettecox.com/polymerclay.htm
http://polyclay.com/pins.htm

Videos:
This a fascinating video on a complex face cane
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m1aWSQ0LFEE

Animals face canes
Cats
tutorials
http://www.polymerclaycentral.com/catcane1.html
http://www.pcpolyzine.com/0302february/0302catcane.html
http://www.povn.com/rock/gPDemo.html

Bird
http://www.flickr.com/photos/shimshoni-gallery/3871654514/in/set-72157606371383384/ in pictures

Inspiration
http://www.claycat.faithweb.com/cat.htm

Before you leave...

2010-04-22T07:27:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!

We are almost there, less than one week to go: our yearly clay fest is about to begin.
If you have any questions just ask us:
Margi: margilaurin@sympatico.ca
Vio: fxvio@sympatico.ca

Last checklist

Basic clayers kit
Materials for each class
Driving instructions and phone numbers
Books and magazines (optional)
Table de Junque a great opportunity to recycle (optional)
Shop, Hawk and Gawk, we want to see what you make (optional)
Canes and beads for swaps (optional)
Smile (not optional)

How to get to Morrisburg

From the 401 take exit 750 at Morrisburg. Follow signs to town about 1km
from highway overpass. (You will be turning RIGHT into town if you are
coming from Toronto, and LEFT into town coming from Montreal). Turn left at
the lights and drive another 1 km approx. On the left side of the road, you
will see the MacIntosh Inn. It is well marked and you will already have seen
the signs directing you to it. Drive safely!

The Hotel number is: 613-543-3788
Vio and I will be around and the contact person to speak to at the Inn is
Patsy.

When You Arrive

Someone at the front desk will direct you to the conference room and give you your keys and room number. You may want to drop your “stuff” off so you don’t have to lug it upstairs or downstairs.

THE MOST IMPORTANT THING TO REMEMBER IS THAT WE ALL WANT TO RELAX AND HAVE FUN!!

You will receive a folder upon arrival with class descriptions and schedule as well as some useful information about the town.

This is YOUR event. You have paid for all of the classes, it is your choice whether to attend them or not. If you feel you have too much on your plate, or that a class may not be beneficial to you, you may opt out and go for a long lunch or a nap or a Jacuzzi. (You need to book Jacuzzi times with the front desk.)

Or you may want to continue working on something that has piqued your interest. And even though you may choose to work on something else, you will benefit just from listening. The instructors will be willing to answer questions and help you any time you need it, not only during their class time.

This is our eighth MPCG gathering and we feel every one has been very successful. If you have any questions, concerns or comments, come directly to Margi or Vio. We will do our very best to help you.
Margi and Violette

Sandy's description and list

2010-04-11T16:23:00.000-07:00

This is what Sandy Willis wrote on her blog Friday.
Her list of things to bring is pretty complete; you might want to check it out.
Thanks Sandy!! And by the way, go and visit her blog; it is interesting.

Hi Everyone,
In just a few short weeks Morrisburg will be upon us. It's an annual gathering of 30+ women from Ontario and Quebec. We meet for a long weekend and clay all weekend long. I was dragged kicking and screaming to it five years ago by some women I had barely gotten to know at Guild. I then became one of the biggest converts as the session had met and exceeded my every expectation. It's now something I look forward to every year.

There's lots of claying, eating, laughter, friendship, and happy exhaustion. Everyone is incredibly warm and giving in their time, talent, and companionship. I'm smiling as I type this because it's just so much fun.

The photos above are a collage of the lessons that we'll be learning this year. It's a good mix of items and I'm looking forward to each and every one of them. I'll be giving a tutorial in one of the evenings, on some caning techniques that I've been playing with. You'll get to see the canes after Morrisburg.

I've started putting some things aside for packing. Here's the list of everything I've got to put together and figure out how to pack. There will be a lot of "oh, and I guess I should also add..." as I browse my hobby room. Fortunately I know that if I forget something someone else will have one.

Paints, Inks, Liquids and other tints

•Acrylic paints in favourite colours
•Glazing medium or pre-mixed acrylic glazes
•Dollar store paint brushes
•Paint Pallette
•Pallette knife
•Acrylic gel medium that dries clear (Golden brand or modge podge)
•Pearlized acrylic paint
•Stamping ink
•Water container
•Alcohol inks
•Pearlex powders
•Future floor finish
•Armorall
•Water spray bottle
•Alcohol
•fabric acrylic paints or inks(Dye Na Flow) - 1-3 colours
•sponges and makeup brushes
•Liquid Clay

Containers

•Wooden boxes
•Small tins
•Empty match boxes
•Bottles
•Glued books

Adhesives

•Glue – White craft glue and acid free glue stick – PVA or archival
•Loctite
•TLS
•Adhesive Tape
•Weldbond

Blades and Cutters

•Cane cutting blades
•Heavy duty utility knife with supply of extra blades
•Scissors
•Cutting mat
•Cookie cutters
•Chef scoopy thingy
•Kemper cutters

Other

•Cork-backed metal ruler
•Cutting Mat or cardboard
•Small measuring containers from Lee Valley
•Bone folder
•Wax paper
•Paper towels
•Hole punches
•Gloves for hot clay
•Styrofoam
•Bull dog clips
•Straight pins
•Key rings
•Plastic sheet protectors
•Sponges
•Toothbrush
•Credit card
•-20 g. wire and flat-nose plier
•-cotton balls
•knitting needle
•mica sheets
•Small white vinyl canvas
•Mr. Clean magic eraser

Clay Tools

•Extruder
•Roller
•Tile/s
•Pasta Machine
•Polymer clay extruder with discs

Clay

•Bake n Bend clay
•-polymer clay - white,black, translucent,ecru,pearl and brown
•black clay
•Scrap clay
•light coloured polymer clay
•Play dough
•Flesh
•Other colours
•Samples for tutorial

Textures and stamps

•Images for collages and transfers
•-small rubber stamps (ex. star,leaf)
•Textures
•Word stamps

Finishings

•beads,
•headpins, earrings
•glitter,
•marker pens,
•brads, eyelets & eyelet setter,
•found objects,
•ribbons, yarns, wire, bits of fabric, sewing needles, thread, coins, buttons

Junque Table stuff

Show and Tell

MPCG10-Schedule

2010-04-09T14:33:00.000-07:00

Thurs. April 29
Afternoon: Arrival and Set-up
6:00 to 7:30 Dinner
Evening: Welcome and announcements;
Leslie Lockhart and Sherry Nash: A Book with a Secret (part one)
Fri. April 30
Fri. 7:30 - 8:30 Breakfast
Fri. 8:30 – Gaby Orbach: GoingWild and Fine With Surface Design
Fri. 12:00 - Lunch
Fri. 1:30 – Louise Gagné: Best Face Forward
Fri. 6:00 - Dinner
Fri. 7:30 Sandy Willis: demo with canes
Sat. May 1st
Sat. 7:30 - Breakfast
Sat. 8:30 – Georgia Ferrell: A Tisket A Tasket, a Polymer Clay Basket
Sat. 12:00 - Lunch
Sat. 1:30 – Fanny Achache: Inkjet Transfers on Polymer Clay
Sat. 6:00 - Dinner
Sat. 7:30 –Melani Litwack: demo origami: making a box
Sun. May 2nd
Sun. 7:30 - Breakfast
Sun. (Time TBA) – Leslie and Sherry: A Book with a Secret (part 3 or 4)*

* Leslie's and Sherry's class will be ongoing during the weekend. They will intervene here and there as this project advances. We will be finishing up on Sunday morning. To prepare your book go to the blog: http://mpcg09.blogspot.com and look up their instructions. (I (vio) just did mine! easy)

Once again, we are anticipating a super weekend of learning, laughter and lots of claying. Don’t forget to bring your smile and energy because we plan to have some fun.

Margi and Violette

MPCG10 - a reminder

2010-04-08T16:07:00.000-07:00

Hi there,

The 8th (I know, I can't count) Morrisburg Polymer Clay Gathering is going to happen in a few weeks! This message is a reminder of things you can bring along with you to share, show or sell.

LIBRARY: once again we ask for your cooperation for the reading table; we all like to read and if you have any magazines or books of interest, please bring them along. They don’t necessarily need to be clay related: anything to inspire will do the trick. Please mark the books/magazines you bring so that they can be returned to you.

TABLE DE JUNQUE: how about making a special effort for the table. In this time of recycling, take a good look at all your clay related tools/supplies. There are a lot of things that you don’t use and won’t use. Why don’t you give them to someone who will? We can’t think of a better way of sharing. We all have stuff lying around begging to be used…by someone else!! Think about it. There are always little treasures to be found on that table.

SHOP HAWK AND GAWK: if you have anything to show and tell we would be happy to see it (does not have to be for sale). Just bring anything you are proud of or maybe things you want input on. And if you have stuff to sell, we will set up a table like in the years past.
Mark each item with your name and price.
You are responsible for the sale (i.e. receipt, taking cash,
packaging etc).
We will have an area assigned, but if you have special display requirements, please bring them.

CANES: Do you have canes that are never-ending? Why don’t you bring them along to exchange? that way, you will have a greater variety of canes to work with. The more canes, the merrier. This has worked well in the last three years and we want to do it again this year.

BEADS: Do you want to swap beads?, bring some with you to exchange.

If you have any ideas you want to share, please go right ahead. The information we gave you will be uploaded to the Morrisburg blog. http://www.mpcg09.blogspot.com
Once again, we are anticipating a super weekend of learning, laughter and lots of claying. Don’t forget to bring your smile and energy because we plan to have some fun.

You will be receiving driving directions and phone numbers etc. closer to the date.

Margi and Vio

PS: we have also planned two demos.

The first one by Sandy Willis who will show us more elaborate things to do with caning. For sure, this will be a great complement to Louise's class.

The second demo will be given by Melly who will show us how to make a pretty box to give that special gift in. Get ready to fold paper!!

A note from Georgia

2010-04-06T07:50:00.000-07:00

Georgia sent this out to the Clayamies list recently. You might not all be on that list so here is the information:

if you are going to morrisburg and have no other way to get some superflex
bake and bend clay, please let me know and i will try to bring some for
you. it has many uses besides what i will be doing with it, so perhaps you
might want to either purchase a 6- one ounce package or an 8 - 2 ounce
package at michaels with a 40% coupon... or share one of these packages with
two or three friends.

From Janice Van Beek re:Clay Order

2010-03-22T17:02:00.000-07:00

Hi Group,

I am going to place a bulk order for Premo clay (only) thru KJP crafts.

Not all colours are available in the 1 lb's, here is the list of colours available:

Premo Sculpey Open Stock

Premo Sculpey comes in 33 colors in 2oz bars for retail. Box pack is 8 units of one color. Mixing colors

(min. one box/color) OK for volume pricing. Please see our website for colors.

5001 White 5101 Pearl 5323 Green 5521 Fluorescent Green

5018 Copper 5129 Silver 5382 Cadmium Red 5562 Ultramarine Blue

5033 Orange 5259 Red Pearl 5383 Alizarin Crimson 5572 Cadmium Yellow

5042 Black 5289 Blue Pearl 5392 Raw Sienna 5583 Fluorescent Red

5053 Burnt Umber 5299 Green Pearl 5503 Fluorescent Pink 5600 Fluorescent Yellow

5063 Cobalt Blue 5303 Gold 5504 Fuchsia 5703 Glow-in-the-Dark

5072 Zinc Yellow 5305 Sea Green 5505 Turquoise

5092 Beige 5310 Translucent 5513 Purple

5093 Ecru 5317 Frost 5515 Violet

Sixteen colors of Premo Sculpey are available in 1lb bars labeled for retail.

5001-1 White 5101-1 Pearl 5323-1 Green

5042-1 Black 5129-1 Silver 5382-1 Cadmium Red

5053-1 Burnt Umber 5303-1 Gold 5513-1 Purple

5092-1 Beige 5310-1 Translucent 5562-1 Ultramarine Blue

5093-1 Ecru 5317-1 Frost 5572-1 Cadmium Yellow

Case pack is 12 bars. Mixing OK for volume pricing.

Contact Janice Van Beek for prices please.

MPCG-10 Class description Leslie Lockhart and Sherry Nash

2010-03-10T08:30:00.002-08:00

A BOOK WITH A SECRET… A HIDDEN CLAY NICHE

Welcome to our fun and exciting workshop where we will explore the art of “altered books” and how they marry with Polymer Clay to create a “new book look”.

We will teach you how to line a niche in clay and then introduce you to exciting new applications to fill that niche, techniques to embellish your book and for the more ambitious, possibly construct a drawer or two. The ideas are only as limited as your polymer clay supply and imagination … fill your niche with a mosaic pictorial, a vignette, a polymer clay painting! Your altered book can become a travelling suitcase or art gallery to showcase your finished ATCs, jewelry pieces, mini art works. Or add polymer clay fronts to drawers designed to store beads and miniature pieces. Think “Infinite”!

Optional – Advance Prep work
1. Find a good book (but not to read! To ALTER!) and construct a niche* …or NOT (if you just don’t have the time or inkling to hunt for a used book and do the pre-work, we will gladly provide you with a book complete with prepared niche (measuring 3.5”h x 2.5”w x ½”deep) and ready to alter for a nominal fee ($5.00).
NOTE: If you want to purchase a prepared book, please notify Leslie by email no later than Friday, 26 March 2010: leslock@total.net

2. Bring a finished polymer clay focal piece to showcase within the dimensions of your completed niche …or NOT (you could use something you create while in Morrisburg).
NOTE: If you’re purchasing a prepared book, pay attention to the size of your focal piece as it must not exceed the dimensions of the niche.

3. Decide whether you want a theme for your altered book …or NOT: Some artists enjoy working with a theme and can be inspired by the title or content of their book while others prefer to see what develops (or… let your focal piece inspire you).

*For those opting to prepare their book in advance
What kind of used book? The only pre-requisite is that the book must be hardcover as they work best. The ideal size is around 5”wide x 8”long x 1 ½” deep, but for just this once, size won’t matter….. it just has to be deep enough to carve a niche to hold your focal piece. Click on this instructional link for more details: Considerations for Choosing a book.

How do I construct a niche? To create a niche you will have to glue and cut pages ahead of time. Click on this instructional link for more details: Gluing and Cutting Niches

Materials List – MUST HAVE’S

· Basic polymer clay kit items
· Cutting Mat
· Cork-backed metal ruler
· Heavy duty utility knife with supply of extra blades ($store brand ok)
· Used hardcover book with prepared niche OR $5
· Polymer clay focal piece to fit the dimensions of your niche OR create one in Morrisburg
· Polymer clay of your choice – approximately 2oz – to line a niche and for embellishments
· Acrylic paints in your favourite colours
· Glazing medium or pre-mixed acrylic glazes
· Glue – White craft glue and acid free glue stick – PVA or archival
· Paint brushes for painting altered book pages (flat ones, sizes 8 – 14 work well) plus one for applying glue
· Palette or container for mixing paints and holding glue
· Container for water
· Waxed paper
· Paper towels
· Scissors

Materials List – “NICE TO HAVE’S” but optional for embellishments

· Extra used book to “practice” experimenting with layout or colours or treatment of altered pages
· Acrylic gel medium that dries clear (Golden brand best or modge podge)
· Pearlized acrylic paint
· Polymer clay extruder with discs
· Mold forms
· Rubber stamps for impressing polymer clay and for stamping pages
· Stamping inks
· Collage papers
· Images for collaging or transfers
· TLS for image transfers in polymer
· Bone folder or equivalent (old credit card, back of spoon)
· Ephemera for embellishing book pages such as assorted polymer clay beads, glitter, marker pens, brads, eyelets & eyelet setter, found objects, ribbons, yarns, wire, bits of fabric, sewing needles, thread, coins, buttons
· Heat gun – to speed paint drying
· Adhesive tape – regular, double-sided, removable are all useful
· Hole punches
· Small (empty) match boxes if doing drawers

MPCG-10 Class description Georgia Ferrell

2010-03-08T19:15:00.000-08:00

A TISKET A TASKET A POLYMER CLAY BASKET

In this class we will learn some clay recipes and techniques that will lead to a variety of projects. However, for this class I will demo the creation of a basket of polymer clay. For this basket we will mix a variety of clays so that you can have samples of the different blends used for weaving, macramé, braiding, knitting, crocheting, and some jewelry cording. Lots of fun here because there is lots you can do with the ‘yarn’, the ‘reeds’ and the ‘weavers’ you will make with polymer clay. You will be able to make a project or simply use the techniques to make some samples for future use. Baking tips will also be discussed, as this is an important part of using bake and bend clay.

Material List:

Basic Clay Kit
Super Glue or very quick setting glue
Bake ‘n’ Bend clay -- 2 oz. block or more if you wish to do more projects or large ones
Extruder with flat and single round discs, several sizes
Several pieces of heavy cardboard to bake on… corrugated is best about 9 x 9 inches
Several types of clay – studio, premo, fimo, kato etc perhaps 2 ounces of each plus your
regular clay stash.
A pair of gloves as you must touch the clay when it is hot. I use those one size fits all sort
Any yarn or ribbon you might want to use as finishing touches
A piece of Styrofoam and some bull dog clips, key rings, and some straight pins.

Please note: Bake and Bend clay only comes in packages of 8 -2 ounce blocks or 6 one ounce blocks. The colors are red, black, white, orange, beige, green, blue, yellow in the 2 ounce size. Please let me know if you want me to purchase this for you. I must know by April 15. I will bring the blocks to mpcg and it will be first come first served colorwise. You might want to get together in groups to purchase this for yourself.
All the colors mix pretty well to get nice new colors, and especially with mica shifting clay.

Looking forward to seeing you all at MPCG 2010.

Georgia

MPCG-10 Class description Gaby Orbach

2010-03-08T19:06:00.000-08:00

GOING WILD AND FINE WITH SURFACE DESIGN

Let's play with all those pearlescent paints,alcohol-based inks,sponges and texture sheets to explore different surface designs. After experimenting with several decorated sheets,we will decorate a box with reassembled strips or pieces of the previously decorated sheets. Jewellery application of these techniques will also be an option.

MATERIAL LIST

-small box (if wooden - conditioned in 250 deg. oven for 15 min.,covered with modge podge where applying polymer)
-polymer clay - white,black, translucent,ecru,pearl and brown
-assortment of metallic and nonmetallic acrylic paints (include beige)
-alcohol inks ("pinata") - 3 or 4 colours
-"pearl ex" powders (and/or metallic embossing powder)
-fabric acrylic paints or inks(Dye Na Flow) - 1-3 colours
-acrylic floor finish
-small spoon,container to mix
-acrylic brayer
-felt applicator
-background or overall-pattern rubber stamp or texture sheets
-small rubber stamps (ex. star,leaf)
-1 plastic sheet protector (found in office supply stores)
-"Armorall"
-water spray bottle
-cosmetic and sea sponges
-sponge dauber
-thin and regular paint brushes
-alcohol
-cotton balls
-palette knife
-toothbrush
-credit card
-small cookie cutters ("aspic")
-20 g. wire and flat-nose plier
-cardboard

Gaby

MPCG-10 Class description-Fanny Achache

2010-03-07T19:04:00.000-08:00

Inkjet transfers on Polymer clay

As a graphic designer I am passionate by image. I've been making
photos for years, and I love to make collage. So obviously I had to
find a way to add images to my polymer clay creations.
After looking into all possible ways to make transfers, I've finally
found my favourite. And after trying a lot of different papers to
find which one works best, and moreover works with my home inkjet
printer, I was finally able to find the one that works best. It's an
Epson inkjet photo paper with a matt finish. You won't have to bring
paper or images, I will provide them for you. I have lots of very
nice images to please everybody. But if you want to make sure you use
your favourite image the reference paper is 041070.
We will be creating tiles with image colour transfers that you will be
able to use for pendants or bracelets.
In the first part, I'll show you how to make the transfer on the back
of a translucent polymer clay sheet to protect your transfer.
On the second part, we will be making tiles.

Materials list

In addition to the usual clay kit you will need
liquid polymer clay
light coloured polymer clay
Black clay
Scrap clay
a bone folder or a spoon for burnishing
Bamboo skewer or fine knitting needle
Acrylic rod
Graduated ruler or grid paper if you have it but it's not
absolutely necessary
If you want to finish your jewellery:
Elastic cord for a bracelet
Buna cord or leather cord for a pendant
It could also be a brooch.

I am looking forward to sharing this with you all
See you soon
Thanks
Fanny

MPCG-10 Class description - Louise Gagné

2010-03-07T15:50:00.000-08:00

Best Face Forward
Basic face cane or face cane 101
I will be showing how to do a simple face cane.
This cane will be used to do an ensemble work .
Think of a group photo after everyone has done their cane. If you would like to make your own group portrait look at the end to know what you will need.

Since simple is different for each of us I would suggest that you do a simple drawing of what you think your face looks like, that means a nose, two eyes and a mouth.
If you don’t know how to draw, Ed Emberly’s drawing books are for you. Simple line drawing that you will find in the children section of your library

You can see yourself as a monster, a man or any character you like.

You will learn how to make eyes , nose, mouth, cheeks ( mini canes) to assemble together to make your face cane.
I will show you also how to reduce using different techniques like toothpicks, Play Doh or any air dry clay or even using mac tack.

.

Materials list:

You will need: a simple drawing of a face ( the real you or how you see yourself) black and white is o.k.
The size of your drawing should be about 1 to 1½ inch. Bigger will give you a bigger cane and more cane to keep.

Clay:
I suggest using a firm clay : kato, premo, fimo classic. You could use other clays but you will have more problems when reducing. Use the same clay throughout the project.

I will be using premo so the measures are for premo clay. The finished reduced face should be 2 inches long by 1 inch or so wide. I don’t like having too much cane left.

3 blocks (more, if you like working big) of your base colour.

Kato skin colour is pale and has trans already in it, I think, if you are using that clay.

Do not bring Super Sculpey, I will show you why.

The skin:
If you want to make real skin prepare your clay ahead, mixing your colour the way you want to make it. You need at least 3 blocks worth or more. Make more than less.

To help you, here are a few recipes:

Skin recipes taken from Polymer Clay Cyclopedia and Glass attic:

1.Mix white, brown and yellow clay until you get a colour that you like, making sure that you have enough of it.
2. To achieve a very natural porcelain-looking skintone, I add equal amounts of premo fleshtone, and sculpey translucent. I also put a dab of pink chalk, or blush to create blushed cheeks before baking.
3. For a light fleshtone I love using fimosoft flesh pink with an equal amount of fimosoft nightglow (the glow in the dark). It sounds strange, but it perks up the colour nicely, especially good for fair-skinned babies or faeries. I also use a 1:1 mix of fimosoft flesh pink and premo beige. The premo adds more translucence to the skin tone making it look more realistic.
4.From Glass attic, more recipes:
-equal parts of sculpey beige and premo beige,
-equal parts of sculpey tan and premo beige;
-1/4 block sculpey tan plus 1/4 block premo beige plus 1/16-1/8 raw sienna (nice cocoa colour);
-1/4 block sculpey tan plus 1/4 block premo beige plus a pinch of gold or copper.

I use ecru, beige or a mix of white and ecru for very pale skin. Ochre with white or pearl is good too. If you want a more translucent skin colour mix the base colour with trans ½ and ½ with your base colour.

You will also need:
¼ block white mixed with trans
½ block black
¼ block blue or green or brown depending the colour you will use for eyes.
½ block red
1 block contrasting colour to put round the face. I use a brownish beige mix.( burnt sienna, ecru and white)

Those colours are for a real face.
If you want to make a monster any colour goes. The total amount of clay you will need is about 6-8 blocks.

Tools

All your regular tools : be sure to have a good cutting blade, pasta machine, clay gun (optional)
If you want to try the reducing part you can bring Play-Doh or any other air dry clay or mac tack like product.
I will bring the toothpicks.

Group portrait:
A blank canvas found at the dollar store. 5 X 7inches
Crazy glue.
Be ready to give to each participant a piece of you (your face cane) to make the different group portraits.
Each participant should be able to go away with their group portrait on the last day.

Other projects
If you want to do a pin, bring a pinback.
Want to make a bottle of hope, remember to bring a bottle.

Reducing a cane with Play-Doh, go here. See Oct 2ND 2009.

Louise

MPCG-10 The basic clayers kit

2010-03-05T15:54:00.000-08:00

Soon we will be putting up everyone's class description with their materials list. For starters here is the basic kit:

Clay of your choice,
pasta machine (no motor),
work surface,
tissue blade,
knife or scraper,
roller,
wet/dry sand paper,
note taking and drawing materials,
index cards,
paper towels,
texturing materials,
modeling tools such as knitting needles or what you like to use,
piercing tools,
x-acto knife,
mould release,
glue,
smile.

MPCG 10

2009-12-16T11:32:00.000-08:00

Here we go....
The Morrisburg Polymer Clay Gathering is getting on track once again!
And we always start with this announcement. If you are interested in giving a class please read on....

Hello there,
This is the official call for class proposals for Morrisburg 2010. If you have something interesting you want to teach/share with everyone, now is the time to do it. This is also a great venue to try your hand at teaching : maybe you are a natural and don't know it ... yet! If you already taught at one of the guilds, make sure you will not be teaching the same class for obvious reasons.
Morrisburg dates are Thursday April 29th to Sunday May 2nd.
As an added incentive, those who give a class get free room and board.
So get your wheels going and put something together for us.
At this point it doesn’t have to be precise: we just want to have a good idea on what you are planning to give (ex: we don’t need the supply list right now).
We would like to have your class proposals in by January 15, no later.
Think outside the box: we are open to new ideas.....
Start planning now; we are waiting!
Please send your plans to both of us. One of us could lose things!!! Yes it has happened before!
Margi and Violette

If you want to be on the mailing list please let us both know.

The first Morrisburg gathering in 2003. We were soooo young!!! sigh....
click on the picture to make it bigger.

Links to book making

2009-05-11T11:12:00.000-07:00

Just remembered that I told you I would send you to the video that shows how to assemble a book via Coptic stitching. It is a good reminder in case you forget.There might be a few minor differences with the way I showed you, but all in all, it comes out the same. So, you can go here; it is the best one I found.
There is also some cool stuff:here if you want to kick it up a notch!
And also here if you want a bit of history.
PS: Click on the underlined "here"s and it will get you to the links.
Have fun....Vio

Les photos de Violette

2009-05-11T08:27:00.000-07:00

People impressions. Click on pictures and you can see a larger version.
The group in the wind.
Cane swap.
Georgia teaching
Laurie and Elaine
Janice drinking....water
Pam thinking about her next trip to Australia
Louise concentrating
Sandy and Christine
Diane and Pat our enthusiastic newbies
Patti another smiling newbie
Moyra happy because she has a new puppie
Cathy working hard
Dorothy
Cynthia
Melly on her computer
Janice and Vio showing off their newly acquired bling from the Table de Junque
Thank you for coming you cool gals you, once again, you made this a memorable weekend.

Barbara Bowman's pictures

2009-05-07T12:37:00.000-07:00

Barbara's book

Barbara, Jacey and Janice's books

Dorothy, Jacey, Violette and Margi

Gaby Orbach

Gaby's brooch

Gaby's frame

Gaby's necklace

Gaby's necklace

Gaby's necklace

Gaby's necklace

Group photo

Jacey

Jacey's books and Barbara's book

Jacey's book back

Jacey's book front

Jacey's miniature fast food

Some of our books

2009-05-07T06:09:00.000-07:00

2009-05-07T06:07:00.000-07:00

2009-05-07T06:06:00.000-07:00

2009-05-07T06:04:00.000-07:00

2009-05-07T06:02:00.000-07:00

We have just experienced our seventh annual Polymer Clay Gathering in Morrisburg Ontario. We had 34 clayers learning, teaching, sharing, and experimenting with Polymer Clay. Here are some pictures and I will add more as they come in so keep checking back! Thanks for another great year everyone!

About the Town

2009-04-27T06:49:00.000-07:00

About The Town

*Population...2,500 - Been that way for 50 years

*History...Morrisburg was one of the villages that was moved when the ST. Lawrence River was widened to allow shipping channels. The village was moved in 1954. Most of the older homes were moved on large trailers and relocated on new basements. But, the old village itself was destroyed(although some buildings/remnants can be seen while scuba diving). This is why the towns along the river appear to be old, but have no downtowns. They are often referred to as "The Lost Villages"

*Upper Canada Village is located here and attracts many tourists during the summer months.

*Upper Canada Playhouse is one of the best local theatres around.

*Morrisburg gave birth to the McIntosh Apple(for more history, see the displays in the hallway)

*Banks...There is a Scotia Bank and a BMO in the mall. Hours: 10-4, not open Saturday. There are bank machines there as well as here at the Inn.

*Please note that the $ Store has moved to the front of the mall(near the Grocery Store).

*Shopping... The Giant Tiger and Canadian Tire are located on the same road we are on, about a kilometer west. Home Hardware is just west of us on the same side of the road.

The rest is located in the mall between the Grocery Store at one end and the Beer store at the other. Hours are very small town: ie. only the CT, GT and supermarket will be open Thursday night. Friday night, MOST stay open till 8:00 or 9:00. On Sunday, only the supermarket is open BEFORE 11.

*Eating Out: There is a Subway, MacDonalds and a Tim Hortons in town. Nicks Sports Bar in the mall is ok for wings and pizza and the New Centennial across the mall from that has a good, but 'diner-style' menu. For Pizza, we order from Pizza Castle which is located near the clock tower. The golf course will be open this year. There you can have lunch and meet the rest of my family.

*My husband and his brothers run the local paper, it's called "The Morrisburg Leader". So no trashing the local news! Besides, you might find yourself on the front page next week, so

SMILE!!!

*Weather Forecast; Thurs. High 17 mostly sunny. Friday, high 21 windy with possible shower. Sat. high 14, some sun possible shower. Sun. high 13, clouds and sun.

* Advice from a Veteran to a Newbie. (thanks C)

The temperature in the meeting/work room can vary greatly. Wearing a very light shirt and then another shirt or sweater that can be taken on and off works well. (This varies because of ovens running and where you are situated to an outside door and of course weather/if the doors are open etc.) We try to keep everyone comfortable of course and you MUST tell us if you are not.

There are refrigerators in the rooms now, so we can bring drinks and snacks. Wine is always good. :-) Breakfast and dinner are included, but bringing something to have for lunch can save going out. Although, getting some fresh air is good too.

There is wireless internet access in the rooms so we can blog.

EARPLUGS are very important in case your roommate snores.

Hand cream is useful as I found my hands got very dry.

An Ottlite (and extension cord) can be useful.

Toss in a bathing suit in case you wish you partake of the whirlpool and sauna. There is a small fitness room.

(I can't remember if motors are allowed, but I figured they are probably allowed at night, for the crazies who stay up all night.) We restrict the motors during the day as the noise is disturbing to some people and worse in a large group. I had a motor once that would make your skin crawl inside out.

This from Sandy

2009-04-19T13:40:00.000-07:00

Hi All,

I was at Michael's yesterday and they had their Grummer flakes on clearance for $2.99. I bought a couple of packages and if anyone would like me to pick one up for them I will, just drop me an e-mail. One back will give you 10 years supply of flakes so they're great to share.

Also, Shades of Clay is now carrying several sizes of Memory Glass and her prices are very competitive at $6.99 for 24 pieces (take another 10% off for class) and $3.00 cheaper than what Michaels has. I am providing two glass pieces for everyone in their kits but the one inch square slides might be very useful for other projects as you won't have to cut your other pieces to size. There will be some spare slides as well.

You can see Memory Glass slides at http://www.shadesofclay.com/products/Embellishments/Other%20Embellishments/Memory%20Frames.htm

Again, they're not necessary for class, but I suspect that for those that like mosaicky types of things you might find ideas to use the glass with and with not having to pay for shipping for Morrisburg it might be worth the money.

As far as clay - the clay becomes a backdrop to whatever you're doing. You'll definitely want translucent for one of the techniques but other than that it's whatever colours you like to work with and the techniques don't require a whole lot. I think many of us are bringing "everything but the kitchen sink" for clay so it's likely that someone will have a colour that you want and might be willing to share.

Less than two weeks to go!

Sandy

See You Soon

2009-04-16T10:59:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!

We are almost there, two weeks to go: our yearly clay fest is about to begin.

We got a suggestion to hold a bead swap; these have been successful in the last years and I (vio) forgot to add it to the activities (thank you Barbara Two Shoes).

If you are missing any information please refer to the Morrisburg blog : http://mpcg09.blogspot.com
Or if you have any questions just ask us:
Margi: margilaurin@sympatico.ca
Vio: fxvio@sympatico.ca

Last checklist

Basic clayers kit
Materials for each class
Driving instructions and phone numbers
Books and magazines (optional)
Table de Junque a great opportunity to recycle (optional)
Shop, Hawk and Gawk, we want to see what you make (optional)
Canes and beads for swaps (optional)
Smile (not optional)

How to get to Morrisburg

From the 401 take exit 750 at Morrisburg. Follow signs to town about 1km
from highway overpass. (You will be turning RIGHT into town if you are
coming from Toronto, and LEFT into town coming from Montreal). Turn left at
the lights and drive another 1 km approx. On the left side of the road, you
will see the MacIntosh Inn. It is well marked and you will already have seen
the signs directing you to it. Drive safely!

The Hotel number is: 613-543-3788
Vio and I will be around and the contact person to speak to at the Inn is
Patsy.

When You Arrive

Someone at the front desk will direct you to the conference room and give you your keys and room number. You may want to drop your “stuff” off so you don’t have to lug it upstairs or downstairs.

THE MOST IMPORTANT THING TO REMEMBER IS THAT WE ALL WANT TO RELAX AND HAVE FUN!!

You will receive a folder upon arrival with class descriptions and schedule as well as some useful information about the town.

This is YOUR event. You have paid for all of the classes, it is your choice whether to attend them or not. If you feel you have too much on your plate, or that a class may not be beneficial to you, you may opt out and go for a long lunch or a nap or a Jacuzzi. (You need to book Jacuzzi times with the front desk.)

Or you may want to continue working on something that has piqued your interest. And even though you may choose to work on something else, you will benefit just from listening. The instructors will be willing to answer questions and help you any time you need it, not only during their class time.

This is our seventh MPCG gathering and we feel every one has been very successful. If you have any questions, concerns or comments, come directly to Margi or Vio. We will do our very best to help you.

2009-04-09T11:31:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,

The Morrisburg Polymer Clay Gathering (I think is the 7th one) is going to happen in exactly three weeks! Hopefully when spring has sprung. This message is a reminder of other things to bring along with you to make everybody’s life more pleasant.

LIBRARY: once again we ask for your cooperation for the reading table; we all like to read stuff and if you have any magazines or books of interest, please bring them along. They don’t necessarily need to be clay stuff: anything to inspire will do the trick. Please mark the books/magazines you bring so that they can be returned to you.

TABLE DE JUNQUE: how about making a special effort for the table. In this time of recycling, take a good look at all your clay related tools/supplies. There is a lot of stuff that you don’t use and won’t use. Why don’t you give them to someone who will? We can’t think of a better way of sharing. We all have stuff lying there begging to be used…by someone else!! Think about it. There are always little treasures to be found on that table.

SHOP HAWK AND GAWK: if you have anything to show and tell we would be happy to see it (does not have to be for sale). Just bring anything you are proud of or maybe things you want input on. And if you have stuff to sell, we will set up a table like in the years past.
Mark each item with your name and price.
You are responsible for the sale (i.e. receipt, taking cash,
packaging etc).
We will have an area assigned, but if you have special display requirements, please bring them.

CANES: Do you have canes that are never-ending? Why don’t you bring them along to exchange? that way, you will have a greater variety of canes to work with. The more canes, the merrier. I might even make one this year for this purpose. This has worked well in the last two years and we want to do it again this year.

BEADS: We had this great suggestion of a bead swap. If you want to add to your bead collection bring your beads to exchange. It should be fun: we did this before and it was a success.

This year, we want you to plan for a Sunday morning class because the schedule goes till 12:00. You will only need a small amount of clay plus a few tools; this will be a fun class.
If you have any ideas you want to share, please go right ahead. The information we gave you is all on the Morrisburg blog. (see below)
Once again, we are anticipating a super weekend of learning, laughter and lots of claying. Don’t forget to bring your smile and energy because we plan to have some fun.

You will be receiving driving directions and phone numbers etc. closer to the date.

Margi and Vio
http://mpcg09.blogspot.com

PS:
I (vio) a little bit of info to add to my bookmaking class. In my class description I said I use a 1/16-drill bit. I made a book recently with my daughter and the 1/8 drill bit is also fine.
Book measurement: it does not really matter. If you made your covers as specified in my instructions ( 3 ¼ x 4 ¼ , fine, don’t make the correction. If you did not make your covers yet, you can also use the following dimensions: 3 ½ x 5 ½ . I will have examples of both dimensions: the latter measurements are the Moleskines ones. I will add this information to my post on the Morrisburg blog

Supplies for Margi's demo

2009-03-22T05:46:00.000-07:00

Nothing specific, and no need to purchase anything, but bring any art supplies you have handy, ie:

water colours /brushes

coloured pencils

crayons

pastels

lead pencils

markers

sketch or watercolour paper

etc. etc.

Again, no need to purchase anything special.

Schedule

2009-03-22T05:23:00.000-07:00

Schedule for MPCG 09

Thurs. April 30

Aftrnoon...Arrival and Set-up (Vio and I are there all day so it does not matter when you arrive)

6:00 to 7:30 Dinner and Welcome

Thurs. Evening....TBA (don't worry, it will be fun)

Fri. May 1

Fri. 7:30 - 8:30 Breakfast

Fri. 8:30 - Gaby Orbach...."Brocade" Frame

Fri. 12:00- Lunch

Fri. 1:30- Sandy Willis.."Fun With Flakes"

Fri. 4:30 - "Happy Hour"

Fri. 6:00 - Dinner

Fri. 7:30 - Vio Laporte TBA

Sat. May 2

Sat. 7:30 - Breakfast

Sat. 8:30 - Georgia Ferrell..."Fanciful Fabric and Other Stuff"

Sat. 12:00 - Lunch

Sat. 1:30 - Wendy Orlowski..."Resolution Steampunk"

Sat. 6:00 - Dinner

Sat. 4:30 - "Happy Hour"

Sat. 7:30 - Margi TBA

Sun. May 3

Sun. 7:30 - Breakfast

Sun. 8:30 - Jacey Culham "Funky Fast Food in Miniature"

Sun. 12:00 - "The End"

Orders for MPCG

2009-03-07T06:18:00.000-08:00

First for the instructors....our number of attendees this year is 34.

Now, for supplies, I will, as I did last year, place an order with KJP Crafts. You can send your order, with product numbers and quantities , to me and I will have them at the Mac for you. I will be placing the order on Mon. April 20th. HOWEVER, I do not want the job of splitting cases of clay this year, so if you are interested in something that only comes in pre-packs, please arrange this among yourselves.

Also, Marg Scott, of Shades of Clay, has generously offered 10% off to all MPCG attendees and your order will be brought to Morrisburg by one of the SOPCG guild members saving you shipping so this is a great deal!! Thanks Marg!!

For a Shades of Clay order:

http://www.shadesofclay.com/

For a KJP Craft order:

http://www.kjpcrafts.com/

but send the order to Margi Laurin at margilaurin@sympatico.ca

Please put "Order for MPCG" in your subject line.

See Y'all soon!!

The basic clayer's kit

2009-02-22T11:59:00.000-08:00

Clay of your choice,
pasta machine (no motor),
work surface,
tissue blade,
knife or scraper,
roller,
wet/dry sand paper,
note taking and drawing materials,
index cards,
paper towels,
texturing materials,
modeling tools such as knitting needles or what you like to use,
piercing tools,
x-acto knife,
mould release,
glue,
smile.

MPCG-09 Class description: Violette Laporte

2009-02-22T11:43:00.000-08:00

Bookmaking 101
Recently, I learned how to make books with Coptic stitching. And because it is a lot of fun and making a book is rewarding, I thought I would share this with you. This is not a clay project; it involves paper and sewing. It is therefore a very optional class (I mean, more optional than others because they are all optional he he). The clay involved will be making your clay covers in advance. I was quite happy/proud to hold that first book and I hope I can help you to acquire that same feeling.

Materials list
Clay covers (2), finished, no holes drilled, 1 to 4 thickness, and measuring 3 ¼ by 4 ¼. I will also have instructions for a cover measuring 3 1/2 x 5 1/2 as well: it is the size of Moleskines which are quite practical. It does not really matter if your measurements are not exact. We are not looking for perfection here.

Thread. I use the waxed linen found at Wall Mart; it comes in black or beige. Can be found where the beading stuff is (you might even have some leftover from some past projects – go and look). You can also wax your own thread. The important thing is to use a thread that does not stretch at all; it also has to be strong.
Paper. For your first book I would not go all out. So get a sketchpad that you can draw or write on and is not expensive. I would suggest you share the sketchpad because you won’t need all that much paper. I have a pad with sheets that measure 9x12 and I use 6 or seven sheets to make a book. You can also use any paper that you have available.
A cutting surface, x acto knife and ruler (I like the metal ones if you decide to tear your paper for a more handmade look), pencil.
An awl for poking holes in your signatures (those are your paper sheets folded and assembled).
Needle for sewing: make sure the thread can go through the needle hole.
Bone folder if you have one; if not you can use anything, even your nails.
A drill to make the holes in your covers. The holes must be fairly small because if they are too large, your book will be wobbly. I use a 1/16 size drill bit; the 1/8 size drill bit also works. It is a good idea to make a handle for your bit. Below: a visual idea of the materials list.

MY first book:

To see others, go and take a look at my blog .

MPCG-09 Class description: Georgia Ferrell

2009-02-16T18:31:00.000-08:00

Fanciful Fabric and other stuff

This class will be to explore how to make and what can be done with various thickness of clay ‘fabric’.

Some uses are:
Dressing dolls
Surface treatment for and wrapping beads
Covering vessels
Decorating flat surfaces
Book pages

This fabric can be cut, can be painted, can be written on, stamped, screen printed--- among other things, which we can explore.
It can be made to a specific shape or pattern.

Check out the photos for some examples.
I will offer some specific projects for you to try, or come with some ideas of your own!

Materials list

Bring some or all of the stuff along with items 1 and 2.
1. Basic kit of clay and tools
2. Liquid clay of your choice… try to have several, including some coloured, although you can
colour your own.
I like fimo gel, but it is hard to get. I also use kato medium and tls.

3. Sparkles, glitter, flakes, pearl ex and other powders
4. Inks, acrylic paints
5. Metal leaf, jones tones foils, etc.
6. Yarns, thin fabrics like silk, tissue paper
7. Old baked clay, thin wire, ribbons, small mementos like ticket stubs—not too thick tho.

Other stuff
A heat gun – will have to check this one out for power supply, but I am sure we can figure
out how to have at least one available.
A grater of some sort
Scissors
Well, whatever else you want…………………….
Here are some pictures to whet your appetite.

and finally an apron for Morrisburg!

MPCG-09 Class description: Sandy Willis

2009-02-16T18:22:00.000-08:00

Fun With Flakes

Come experiment with the iridescent flakes that no one really knows what to do with. We will learn how to make earrings and/or pendants as well as other items as time permits.

Materials list

typical stuff (pasta machine, clay, blades, roller, liquid clay, etc)
Grummer or other flakes (Michaels has them in their paper making section, use the 40% off coupon), one bag is plenty and people can easily share a bag
Optional stuff:
-gold or silver leaf, Jones Tones foils, and other embellishments
-Pinata or other inks (I have about 10 colours that I'm willing to share)
-stamps
-stamp ink pads
-small containers or storage sacks to store flakes in
-small tiles
-memory glass
-pearlex or other powders
-if you want to make earrings you'll need some round nose pliers. I will have my own with me for sharing.

I will have a small supply kit for everyone for other items such as earring findings and brooch backs. Cost will likely be $2 with proceeds to charity.
Here are a few pictures of what you can accomplish.

MPCG-09 Class description: Gaby Orbach

2009-02-16T18:16:00.000-08:00

"Brocade" Frame

My class will be technique oriented finishing with an easy project - to explore different surface techniques by texturing the clay, applying paint, metallic powders or foils to the raised areas and then rolling flat to achieve a silkscreen effect. Variations on the theme will also be introduced. After experimenting with different decorated clay sheets, a decorative frame will be created by covering it with reassembled pieces of the prepared decorated sheets. The time line (3 hrs.) for the class will be as follows: spend half the time to explore the different surface techniques and then spend the rest of the session to decorate the frame. If time allows, I will have jewellery samples with the same technique that some participants might also like to experiment with.

Materials list

-black polymer clay (enough clay at widest setting of pasta machine to cover your size frame;I used a 71/2" by 6" frame approximately.)
-wooden frame - should be conditioned in a 250 degree oven for 15-20 minutes and covered with a layer of modge podge when dry.
-patterned stamps,texture sheets or any other materials that create texture
N.B. the above should produce a shallow stamp
-pigment powders,stamping inks or acrylic paints (your choice of colours including metallics).I will be using mostly acrylic paints such as gold,copper,silver and metallic emerald green.
-dry release agent - cornstarch,baby powder
-gold foil sheets
-cosmetic sponges or sponge dabbers (optional)
-cardboard (for frame template)
-scissors
-varnish (liquid floor wax)
Here are a few pictures to give you an idea.

MPCG-09 Class description: Jacey Culham

2009-02-16T18:12:00.000-08:00

Funky Fast Food in Miniature

In this class Jacey will teach you how to make a selection of fast food - in miniature! These
adorable little food items can be used as funky jewellery pieces, as scrapbook embellishments, for dollhouses - or - for the doll makers in our group - as fast food for dolls, bears or fairies. The food created will include Hamburgers, Hot dogs, French Fries and Poutine plus all the necessary toppings (pickles, relish, mustard, ketchup etc). For dessert we will make that all Canadian favourite - Doughnuts! No special skills or tools are required for this class - clayers of any skill level will have fun and produce great results. A little kit of basic tools will be provided for each student at no extra charge.

Materials list

Besides your usual clay kit you will need -
*Clay - to successfully create miniatures a firm clay is best - I usually use Fimo Classic but Kato or pre-leached Premo will work too. You will need small amounts (half a small block) each of white, yellow, ecru/beige, dark brown, red, green, black, and if you have them- Fimo terra cotta, rosewood and caramel. If you don't have these - don't worry we can mix them from Kato or Premo.

*Fine pointed tweezers to pick your tiny food items
*TLS or liquid Kato or Fimo gel
*Small good paintbrush size 0 or 00
*Small old paintbrush for dry brushing
*yogurt or cottage cheese lid to use as disposable palette
* small yogurt cup or small jar to use for water for painting
*Loctite Gel Cyanoacrylate glue

* PATIENCE and a sense of humour!

MPCG-09 Class description: Wendy Orlowski

2009-02-16T17:56:00.000-08:00

Resolution Steampunk !

At the beginning of this year I decided that I would try not to be such a consumer. Instead I vowed to start using up some of my stash and that's how I got on the Steampunk bandwagon.

For those of you that aren't familiar with Steampunk think old school. I mean really old school, like back when everything was still steam powered. It's all about fictional technology and things encrusted with metal bits and gears. Throw in a bit of fantasy, some timelessness and some whimsy and you've got Steampunk.

In this workshop we will be creating a pendant or brooch in the Steampunk style that incorporates the CaBezel Jewellery Molds (if you don't know what these are you can go to www.shadesofclay.com to get an idea, but don't worry, I'll be bringing enough for everyone to use.)

In the first part of the class I will demonstrate how easy it is to use the molds. We will make various bezels and learn how to turn a few into "earth crystals" using liquid clay. We'll also use a "Skinner blend" to create a cabochon that resembles an old polished stone that was perhaps mined years earlier.
Next we combine these finished pieces with some scrap clay, some metallic powders and a whole bunch of tiny metal bits to create a timeless looking piece of jewellery that can be worn as a pendant or brooch and if time permits we can make a small pair of earrings to match.

Now run off and start taking apart your old jewellery and that broken watch to get all of those tiny, shiny, fancy bits of metal!!

Aptly named because I came up with this class proposal after making my New Year's resolution : To use up some of my stash before buying anything new!!!!!!!)

Materials list

-patty papers
-spray bottle of water for a release agent
-acrylic rod/roller
-a firm clay (like Kato for the bezels)
-I prefer to use black clay as a base when I'm attempting to imitate metal but scrap clay can work just as well
-any Pearlex powders or pulvers so you can mimic your favourite metal
-fine glitter
-liquid clay
-small texture tools ( buttons work well)
-a few colours of clay to make a skinner blend(This will be used to make a cabochon that will resemble some kind of rock or stone from nature)

-Tiny little metal bits in silver or gold or both. Tiny washers, springs, chain, buttons, metal beads, glass beads, screws, scrapbooking supplies, grommets etc. As long as it is small it will work.
Dig into your husband's/mother's or sister's stashes.
TRY NOT TO BUY ANYTHING NEW FOR THIS PART !!!!!!
I will bring stuff to share.

If any of you ladies already have the CaBezels Molds please bring them along. If you don't already have them....no worries, I will bring some molds for you to play with.
Here are a few pictures to give you an idea.

This was sent to the group in March and I am adding it here.

One of our SOPCG guild members recently mentioned that she was having a difficult time knowing what type of metal parts i was requesting for my steampunk workshop so i decided to take a few pics and put them on my blog .

Remember, there are no hard and fast rules as to what you must use. Just about anything will work.

Think old school, steam powered, fictional technology , metal bits and gears,fantasy and whimsy.

Here is the link http://www.theartofmyclay.blogspot.com/

I'm really lookinmg forward to MPCG !!! See you there.
Wendy

Reminder

2009-02-01T06:12:00.000-08:00

Just a reminder that you have 2 weeks (Feb. 15th) to get your checks
to us. Until then, your spot is reserved, after that, we are opening
it up, and we already have a waiting list started so, don't delay!!
We need one $50.00 check for your deposit and one post dated check
(April 2) for the remainder. (325 for a double and 450 for a single
room.
It would also be very helpful to us, if you let us know by email if
you are NOT going to be attending MPCG this year.
Thanks a bunch and don'f forget to visit the MPCG Blog.
  http://mpcg2009.blogspot.com/
Margi and Vio.

FIrst Order of Business/Registration

2009-01-28T13:19:00.000-08:00

OPEN TO PAST MPCG PARTICIPANTS ONLY UNTIL FEB. 15.

If you did not attend MPCG last year, and are interested in attending in 2009, please check back on Febuary 15 to see if there are spaces available. If you would like to be put on our waiting list, email us and we will let you know!

Hello past MPCG Paricipants:

This is the time of year where we have to talk business; in other words, not the fun part for us.

But to start with a bit of fun and to entice you, this year, we have lined up some great classes and projects.

First, we have a secret project underway that you will learn about later. On top of that we are going to explore some interesting surface techniques such as "brocade" and "silkscreen, using paints, foils and textures as well as making "fabric" with liquid clay to be used in a variety of ways. Then we are going to have some "Fun with Flakes", and to go along with a current popular theme, a class titled "Got Junk" . And for icing on the cake, we will play around with some miniature junk food, much less fattening than the real stuff!!

Morrisburg will be held this year from Thursday April 30 to Sunday May 3 2009. Mark those dates in your calendars because we want to see you all there.

Now, the serious part:

To all PAST MPCG ATTENDEES.

The cost for this year is $375.00 for a double room and $500.00 for a single. This includes three nights stay, 3 breakfasts and three dinners plus all of your workshops , demos and activities. AND THE GOOD NEWS is that it also includes a "Coffee Break" which is a large carafe of coffee, tea, juice and cookies. We have this Friday and Saturday afternoons..

What we need from you now:
To confirm your spot, we need your non-refundable deposit cheque of $50.00 dated now. To save yourself another stamp, also include the balance cheque which can be post dated for April 2. Please include your name, address phone number AND email.

WE NEED TO HAVE YOUR DEPOSITS BY FEBRUARY 1. ON FEBRUARY 15 WE ARE OPENING UP THE OFFER TO ALL GUILDS.

This doesn't mean you will lose your spot, but after Feb. 15 it will no longer be guaranteed.
By all guilds we mean, Clayamies, The Montreal Guild and SOPCG. MPCG is open to everyone, you don't have to be a member of any of these guilds to attend, but it is through these guilds that we promote it.

IT IS VERY IMPORTANT TO PAY ATTENTION TO THIS..........WE MEAN BUSINESS!!!
* A full refund of the balance will be given for medical emergencies of yourself or immediate family member. No other refund given unless your space can be sold to another person.

For checking information, please refer to your original e-mail on this topic or email us directly.

Thank you for your attention and if you need to communicate with us, our addresses are

Margi: margilaurin@sympatico.ca

Violette: fxvio@sympatico.ca

Please send your messages to both of us as we are both...... well,

sometimes one of us won't get the messages or...or... whatever.

We think that just about covers it for now.

Registration for MPCG

April 30 to May 3

Please include the following information with your check.

Full Name:

Name as it appears on you cheque:

Name as we know you on line:

Full Mailing address:

Phone number:

E-mail address:

Contact in case of emergency:

Room mate if you know:

Welcome to Our Blog!!

2009-01-28T13:06:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone... Here is our new blog for MPCG 2009. Lyz helped me set it up, so we can thank her!! This is where you will come to get all the information you need to attend this years Clay Gathering including payment, hotel stuff, class descriptions, schedules, material lists etc. etc. At some point we will be posting pictures of some of the projects (although we don't want to give too much away) You can also use this blog to post any questions or queries you have.