How I Make My Pendant Necklaces in Ten Steps

jacquie blondin ceramics pendants pendant necklaces how to make in ten steps

Reuse, Reduce, Reclaim!

I always have leftover clay after I cut the templates for my soft slab functional ware.  I reclaim the clay to use again, but before I do, I use as much as I can for other creations.  That's where the PENDANTS came in.

Here are my 10 steps to creating a Pendant Necklace:

inspired by nature jacquie blondin ceramics inspired by nature and industrial remnants jacquie blondin ceramics
STEP ONE
The clay is first gradually flattened using a slab roller and then further thinned out and compressed to align the clay particles, remove the canvas texture and to make the pendant as light as possible.
STEP TWO
I add textures to the top using either a hand carved linoblock or handmade ceramic stamp of my own design.  I plan to make double sided pendants this Spring.
texture process studio jacquie blondin ceramics
STEP THREE
I either cut the shape of the pendant by hand or use a cutter with thin plastic to curve the edges.
STEP FOUR
After they firm up, I cut the hole for the clasps or strapping and clean the edges to ensure a smooth result.
STEP FIVE
The pendants are laid between two drywall boards to keep them flat while drying.  Once dry, they are then bisqued in the kiln where they turn from clay to ceramics.
STEP SIX
They are sanded again to make them super smooth against your skin.  I do this outdoors and with a mask to protect the lungs of everyone in my family.
STEP SEVEN
The next stage is the glazing which allows me to explore my collections of interesting glazes.  Glaze is painted in two to three layers on one side only, otherwise, the glaze would stick to the kiln shelves.  While the glaze is drying I use a pipe cleaner to ensure that the hole is clear of glaze.
STEP EIGHT
When the pendants are ready I put them in the kiln again to complete their firing process.  Opening the kiln after this, is like opening a surprise gift because I have yet to have  completely expected results.
 pendants jacquie blondin ceramics kiln opening sanding
STEP NINE
One more round of sanding and cleaning just to make sure they are perfect and dust free.
STEP TEN
The jewelry findings such as clasps, beads and strappings are then connected.  When I remember to do so, they are photographed and then packaged for my clients and customers. That's really many more steps than one and surprisingly time consuming but very meditative. 
preparing ceramic pendants jacquie blondin ceramics
         promo material for packaging jacquie blondin ceramics          
   back of packaged pendant necklace jacquie blondin ceramics   front of packaged pendant necklace jacquie blondin ceramics
Photographing pendant necklace and earrings jacquie blondin ceramics

 


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  • Patty on

    How do you get the backs smooth so they don’t snag clothing?

  • Cathy Holowitz on

    Just looking at your work. Absolutely fantastic!
    Sharon Goodland is visiting and mentioned your show this weekend in Hamilton. Break a leg.

  • Jo-Ann on

    Wow. That’s a lot of steps. They are gorgeous.

    I get a lot of compliments on the one you gave me for Christmas. Seeing a few in your shop that would also look stunning.

    Thanks for sharing your process and steps for making these works of art.

    Jo


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