Small Project Challenge- Crystal Clay!

When Mr Writer and I visited Nottingham back in March I bought a pack of Crystal Clay. I'd never come across it before, but being a little obsessed with Swarovski Crystals I thought it would make a good Small Project Challenge! If you're a new reader, you can find out more about my Small Project Challenge here. You could join in too!

I'll be honest, I'm not entirely happy with what I've made here, but I've decided to share my project anyway. Things don't always go to plan, but the main thing is that I'm pleased I've tried the Crystal Clay- I can see that it has lots of potential uses, I just need to experiment with it more! Here's what happened...

I decided I'd make a ring, using a ring finding with a bezel setting. The clay adheres to most surfaces and cures without heat, so it's really simple to use. 

 I already had a pack of mixed crystals and I used some bugle beads too for variation.

The clay comes in two parts and (wearing gloves) you mix equal amounts together until the two colours are completely blended. The beeswax ended stick is the tool you use to pick the crystals and add them to the clay

This is where I went a bit wrong...  I misjudged the amount of clay I would need. It turns out that a little bit goes a long way and rather than break off a smaller piece to use I decided to make a giant ring! You add the clay to the bezel setting or other surface you are using and mold it to fit.

The other issue was that I didn't  have many flat backed crystals and I think this would have improved the overall look of the ring- the bicones I have used stick out a bit too much. I love big rings but it is VERY big and very very bling!

So overall I really enjoyed using the process of using the Crystal Clay but I definitely need to refine my skills to create an end piece I'm happy with. Have you used Crystal Clay and do you have any tips?