making ornaments

Well, it's that time of year again. The time of year when I break out the jeans, even though it's still too hot, just because I want it to be fall. I love everything about autumn; the cooler weather, the colors, the savory food, the mystery and spookiness. Last year, shortly after this time, I was so enamored of fall that I began making ornaments mimicking all the beautiful, jewel bright leaves that were plastered against the ground. Now, I'm at it again, and I thought I'd share the process. I use Sculpey clay, primarily because it's so readily available. I roll it out thin, cut out some leaves with my X-acto knife, bake them in the oven, paint them, and then gloss them. Usually I watch something on Dan's computer while I'm at it, because it's just too quiet otherwise. And my computer blows up like a jet engine every time I try to do anything more complicated than play solitaire. Here are some pictures!

my messy tray of stuff

fresh out of the oven

finished!

Silvan Ornaments

I've recently discovered the joys of polymer clay. This plastic-y clay is quite easy to work with, and may be cured in a kitchen oven. After it's been cured, it is lightweight, and won't break when dropped...which is always an important feature in anything I am interested in. I have been making Christmas ornaments out of this versatile substance, all to do with woodsy things. I call them Silvan Ornaments! It has been quite enjoyable for me to work on these, as it both satisfies my inescapable yet way too early longing for Christmas, as well as my creative instincts. I have several leaves, a mushroom or two, an acorn, and an owl so far. I'm going to make some snowflakes, perhaps some little critters, and the requisite snowman for my mother. They aren't all done yet, but here are some photos for those interested. I also have a couple listed in my etsy shop, and more will be forthcoming.

A Not-so-Dreary Day

I went for a long walk today, about 3.5 miles. I was the only walker I saw, on my way to the organic food store across town. The time went quickly, although the way back was significantly more strenuous, as I was loaded up with several pounds of granola for my husband. It's definitely cold here, only in the mid-40's, and drizzly. But I was well attired for the weather, and avoided feeling the chill. Dan thought the day was dreary, but as I was walking I could not agree. The trees and flowers were a blazon of color all around me, and the tiny droplets of frigid rain against my face nearly took my breath away. Looking closely at the leaves, I realized they are each a little work of art. The colors, the patterns, the symmetry. All destined to be enjoyed for a moment, and then fade and crunch under the feet of passersby. It's amazing to me, the depth of beauty all around us, waiting to be acknowledged.