DIY Mint Polymer Clay Statement Necklace

New trends are always an interesting thing.  Take those new moon walker high top tennis shoes with Velcro that are popping up everywhere.  Hmmm.  I tried on a pair at Target just for kicks and I have come to the conclusion that I am just not cool enough for high top moon shoes.  If you have a pair of moon shoes, go you.  BUT I am loving all the mint that has been popping up for spring, that is a trend I am on board with for sure.  I wanted to make a new fun statement necklace that had a pop of color for spring so this is what I came up with.

What you will need:

• Mint polymer clay.  I actually made this color by combing equal parts light blue and emerald green. 
• Toothpick or bead maker tool if you want longer tube beads. 
• Razor
• Waxed leather or cotton cord

Here is what you do...

Condition your clay before starting.  Roll various sized peices into balls and then place them on a flat surface and roll them into tubes.  Pierce each tube with the toothpick.  If you want to make longer sized tube beads, use a long bead making tool or a wire hanger.

Roll out as many tubes as you want to put on your necklace, making each a little different in size. Place your tube beads on a designated polymer clay baking sheet and bake for ONLY 10 minutes.

Carefully remove each tube bead off of the baking sheet and slice off each end with the razor blade and discard.  Then use the razor and begin slicing up each tube to make different sized beads, or keep the same size and just remove the ends to make them flat.  Make sure you work quickly.  Place the beads back into the oven and bake for the remainder of the time according to your clay directions.

Place your beads onto the waxed cotton cord.  For the middle bead I used this technique.  Attach whatever closure you like and you are done!