In Venetian glassmaking, slender rods of molten glass are shaped, then cut to reveal detailed patterns: flowers, geometric shapes, dancing colours. This work shows how to re-create these designs in polymer clay. It reveals the process: how to work with polymer clay, the basics of planning and creating a cane and using colour effectively.



In Venetian glassmaking, slender rods of molten glass (canes) are shaped, then cut to reveal amazingly detailed patterns: flowers, geometric shapes, dancing colours. These slices are called millefiori, 'thousand flowers', because they form a carpet of flowers when placed side by side. Now celebrity author Donna Kato shows how to re-create these intricate, fascinating designs in polymer clay. She reveals the entire process: how to work with polymer clay, the basics of planning and creating a cane and using colour effectively. Dozens of examples are included and everything is clearly explained and illustrated with full-colour photographs. This work also includes examples of stunning work by such noted millefiori artists as Kathy Amt, Pier Voulkos and Kathleen Dustin. Donna Kato is a teacher, product designer & artist. She served as a representative for Sculpey and Fimo and has partnered with the art-materials manufacturer Van Aken to design her own line, Kato Poly Clay.