A Polymer Clay Tutorial Starring A Bug, A Gnu and A Jaguar

A BUG, A GNU AND A JAGUAR...
If you’re like me, you have many canes sitting in your studio. I think many of us have the same question: What do I do now? Well, I ask that question of myself quite a bit.
So, here’s a tutorial about using those canes to create simple “masks”. We’ll begin with a bug (my favorite), then move on to a gnu and then a jaguar. Stay tuned, at the end, I will show you what happens when you go over the top and make possibly the ugliest thing ever made, everrr. Seriously, ever. I made it. U. G. L. Y.
For this tute, you’ll need canes and some scrap clay to get going. If you’d like to make the cane I feature in the Bug, then tune in to this tutorial: The 4 Day Cane (it took me 4 days to replicate a very old cane - oy). Rest assured, you won’t see Days 1 - 3, only day 4.
A Polymer Clay Tutorial: The 4 Day Cane
Cheers, D
CHAPTERS:
INTRO
1:21 THE CANED BUG
45:21 I GNU IT
1:34:27 HERE KITTY, KITTY
2:07:31 THE UGLY LURKS
KATO POLYCLAY URLS
Links to Kato Products:
prairiecraft.com
katopolyclay.com
KATO CLASP TEMPLATES: prairiecraft.com/kato/DKF-CT....
REPEL GEL prairiecraft.com/polyclay/RP....
POLYPASTE: prairiecraft.com/kato/VA-1410...
Kato Clear Medium prairiecraft.com/polyclay/KCL...
KPC BIG BLOCKS prairiecraft.com/polyclay/KP1...
KATO MULTI PACKS prairiecraft.com/polyclay/KPC...
KATO 2 OUNCE prairiecraft.com/polyclay/KPC...
CONDITIONING BAR prairiecraft.com/polyclay/KCB...
BLACKOUT prairiecraft.com/polyclay/KPB...
ACRYLIC TEMPLATES prairiecraft.com/polyclay/TEM...
FAVE RULER prairiecraft.com/kato/DKF-WB7...
SCREW EYE PINS: prairiecraft.com/kato/DKF-SEP...

[@rallen9433]

Donna, a lady where I work, loves all bugs living and refuses to kill them. 5 wasps came in, and I can't belive it but I helped capture them with a piece of paper and a cup against our picture windows. She was upset with my method until she realized it was the best way to move them back outside. Now I have to make her some of your bugs... she will love them. The best part of meeting her is she looks like my Grandmother who died when I was six... I love having her in my life. She will love your bugs.

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Aw, she sounds lovely. She’s lucky to have you to catch and carry bugs aaand make them, too! 😊❤️

[@cynthiakammann7368]

I've always used a glass and piece of paper.. that's what my mother did. ♥️

[@beanerton8]

Whaaatt!?! The ones you are calling “ugly” and “going in the garbage” are awesome!! I bet someone out there would want them!! I love all of your projects!!!

[@dogvetusa]

It would also be a lesson in how a hideously ugly piece may not be your jam specifically but can be some people's favorite piece. That one you called hideously ugly looks most like the ones I would see in stores here in Florida. A little over the top but could be someone's absolute fave.

[@Vee_of_the_Weald]

Awww Donna, you’re wonderful. I love your light hearted beat and self deprecating humour - “I’ve been talking to a bug for the past 20 minutes” 😂🤗❤️

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Lol. I do! Am I spending too much time alone? 🤣❤️🎉

[@MichelleJ1822]

Have you seen the movie Bee Movie? If you haven’t, the Bee, which is Jerry Seinfeld, meets a florist, and they become best friends. She’s got a husband and if I recall correctly, he catches them talking to each other. And if my memory serves me correct, I believe he falls in love with her lol and even tells his parents about her. I originally purchased the movie when my kids were little and now I have grandkids. But I even watch it sometimes when nobody else is around lol it’s a super cute movie.

[@MichelleJ1822]

@@DonnaKatoArt I am an empty nester, and have been single since 2009. I’ve dated a little bit but for the most part single. My parents passed away in 2021 and I’ve basically been living off of inheritance. I was their caretaker and grew very very close to them, closer than I already was. Anyways, I haven’t really gone back to work. So I get pretty lonely myself. My mom and dad had a dog, and when they passed, I took her in because she is an older dog, and didn’t think she would acclimate well to a totally new environment. So I find myself talking to her, and myself quite often lol and then I laugh hoping no one hears/sees 😂

[@abcdxyz8852]

They should give Oscar for an artist like you...really❤

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Thank you! 😊❤️

[@cynthiakammann7368]

I agree ❣️

[@mistycherie]

Donna - fabulous tutorial in using these amazing canes of yours. Always impressed with your work and tutorials, thank you for sharing them with us. Your "ugly" might be super decorated but I wouldn't call them ugly, they make me think of animals hiding behind the bushes/scenery and just their eyes sort of peeking out. I do think it's beauty in the eye of the beholder and as the artist, you get to decide! Knowing when to stop is definitely a fine balance of "it needs more" to "it needed less", and just learning what that means to each of us personally is a journey. 💚

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Love your observations, Misty! Thank you for sharing. I do enjoy the process so much. Time to make more animals, I think! 😊❤️

[@cynthiakammann7368]

Thank you for sharing your thought process, and how you adjust and make changes as you go along; it's really helpful. Nice to have a ready made collection to choose from.

[@DonnaKatoArt]

My pleasure! hugs, d

[@jennifermarlowe5336]

Love, LOVE the bullet boxes for small canes! What a fabulous idea-thanks Donna!

[@DonnaKatoArt]

You know, Jennifer, I think Eileen Loring showed me those. It’s been so ling, I do think it was she. Better fir clay than bullets, I think!😊❤️

[@Anneliedsc]

Donna, I have not clayed for a while, but watching this just gave me a zest again. Thank you

[@PxsDD]

Those horns came out so cool. Good intuition twisting them!

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Thank you! Cheers, D

[@debbeechy]

No not the garbage. I loved them myself lol. The bugs are my favorite and now I want to make some.

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Yay! Make lots of bugs! 😊❤️

[@cindyjames3686]

I'm glad I am not the only one who talks to her canes (lol)! Thanks for such another FUN, BEAUTIFUL project session! I really enjoyed it - and made a bug, gnu, and jaguar right along with you!

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Yay, Cindy! I love that. 😊❤️

[@cristinaontivero1278]

Your canes are “Out of this World”, I love, I love your work I can’t wait to give it a go and those you call failures, are just different. You’re extraordinarily talented. 👌😉

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Thank you, Cristina!😊❤️

[@karengorman9181]

Absolutely beautiful

[@deborahblackwell7017]

I love the four warred gnus! They remind me of ceremonial masks!❤

[@DonnaKatoArt]

They are little masks! I think a pretty fine way to make good use of canes you might have. Hugs, D

[@dianelightsey8650]

I love the ones you called ugly don’t throw them away.

[@DonnaKatoArt]

They’re hanging around my computer these days! ❤️

[@sherylwright5705]

These are fabulous! I love them all. Even the ugly ones. I think my favourites are the bugs. Your cane work is amazing and I learn so much from watching your attention to detail. I am so glad that you do these in real time so that we can see your process and the care that you take with slicing and pieces things together. We live in a super speeded up world where everything has to be quick to catch our attention. I don't need quick. I could (and do) sit here for hours watching you and other artists create. Thank you so much for sharing your talent.

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Thank you so much Sheryl, I’m so glad you enjoy them. I used to work very fast and it finally hit me … “ why am I rushing?!” I slowed down and my work improved. I also enjoyed processes more! Thanks so much for watching! 😊❤️

[@kristibbradshaw]

I love the ones that you used a lot of canes.

[@jone6635]

Your canes are amazing to say the least. And the use you make of them.... so creative. Love the bugs. Thank you so much Donna.

[@DonnaKatoArt]

You’re so welcome, Jone!😊❤️

[@cherylfrancis4160]

Thank you thank you. I really appreciate watching you and your sharing.

[@DonnaKatoArt]

You’re welcome!😊❤️

[@clare9637]

Oh my, the Gnu are exquisite!!! Thank you Donna

[@DonnaKatoArt]

You are so welcome, Clare!😊❤️

[@nstyle-jewelry524]

Very beautiful!

[@amm7364]

Unbelievable!!! Sensational!! Gorgeous!! Thank you so much for teaching us!!!😊🇵🇹

[@DonnaKatoArt]

So glad you enjoyed it! It’s fun and a great way to use your canes . I love them!😊❤️

[@mariaangeleslp4363]

Super original. M encanta 😊

[@Uniquely-You]

Wow Donna your just amazing I love the one with horns! Actually I love them all! This is a great idea. Now I can use my canes

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Yay!!! 😊❤️

[@marikasaphiris9371]

Lovely bugs 😮❤

[@daricezdrazil7399]

Oh my goodness Donna! I remember when you were first coming out with your line of products! And now watching your videos only makes me wish I was sitting beside you and being creative alongside you!! Thank you for sharing what you do!

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Hi Darice! Thank you for watching the tutes. Hope you enjoy, kid!

[@daricezdrazil7399]

Oh dear Donna! I wish I was still a kid! I have twins that are 32. I'm in my 50's. But in all honesty, I don't feel my age. I feel younger, mentally anyway.. I've been working with polymer clay since the mid 90's.. I remember when they were selling the clay canes at Walmart. I do have a question however... The shell container you use for your clay canes, I did try looking for it but if you possibly have a link, I would so greatly appreciate it! BTW, I do love using your clay. I use many different kinds, and so far, the only one I had problems with as it was way to soft was the Michael's brand. I have hands that warm up clay very quickly, so some clays can be a challenge and I have to use an ice pack under my tray to chill them down a bit so they are easier to cut and work with.

[@Robsquick]

You are welcome!!! You deserve to get paid for sharing all your knowledge and time with us! So grateful for these videos!

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Love ya, Robs!😊❤️🎉

[@anniel6305]

stunning as always

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Thank you! Cheers!😊❤️🐞🪲🦋

[@thecaptainsnark]

this is such a clever use of these canes and they are all so gorgeous, too, the canes and the finished pieces.

[@DonnaKatoArt]

So glad you like it! Thank you!😊❤️

[@Julsfr]

Wow, absolutely stunning.... all of them ....simply amazing .your canes are beautiful, they make all the creatures come alive ..... thank you for sharing ❤

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Thank you so much! Hugs, D

[@jennifermarlowe5336]

I actually kinda like the smaller of your “ugly” jaguars-he looks camouflaged! And I 💕LOVE 💕 the tribal mask gnus. They are just gorgeous! Thank you Donna, for all the time and hard work you put into making these videos. You are a wonderful teacher!

[@DonnaKatoArt]

My pleasure, Jennifer! I hope you make some! 😊❤️

[@badbetty123]

Those canes are gorgeous my mind is filled with so many beautiful pendants and magnets you can make with those absolutely gorgeous

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Thanks so much 😊❤️!

[@traceyowen6136]

Wow fabulous as always Donna, they're super cute thank you again 💜 🥰💜

[@DonnaKatoArt]

You’re welcome, Tracey! 😊❤️

[@leonanelson2444]

Beautiful, thank you

[@anniehartley8851]

Those are WOW. So cute and different.

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Thank you, Annie!😊❤️

[@solveigjansson8613]

Wow, wow, wow ! Beautiful animals ! I love you !

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Glad you like them, Solveig! 😊❤️

[@jeanniegalt9377]

So cute. Also thanks for all of your videos. You have shared a wealth of valuable info.

[@DonnaKatoArt]

You are so welcome!😊❤️

[@RosasUtopia]

So beautiful!! I unsuccesfully tried the cane but tge one i made: i think it still is beautiful in its own way😂. I want to make the bugs even though my cane didnt work out❤❤ I am such a fan of you!!!!

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Nana, I bet your cane will make wonderful bugs! 100%! Hugs, D😊❤️

[@alcg3981]

I like your uggly piece! I love conflicting patterns, like Crazy Patchwork Quilts! It's all Art and in the eye of the beholder ... and maker😊😮.

[@DonnaKatoArt]

He does have personality! 😊❤️

[@PipPipS]

They are the cutest ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Thank you, Pip!😊❤️

[@wendymoyer782]

Donna...you are right about Ugly lurking around the corner...in my case, it was a case of not having a clear vision to start with, added to over embellishment...leading to what I call...The Ugly Box. I showed my sister, before I threw it out...and she took it!😮😂😂😂

[@DonnaKatoArt]

You nailed it, Wendy! The bushwhacking in clay thing that I so frequently do yields good and strange surprises. Sometimes, it’s just fun to go full out and just do…even when I end up with pieces that really shock me! I was shocked…😊❤️

[@SAMsamSAMsam70]

Speechless!

[@sandradavis847]

Thanks. It isbeautiful!

[@cynthiakammann7368]

I've been wondering about using a length of wire to help shape and secure. Now I know! Thanks.

[@jodinicholas890]

This was so fascinating. My favorite parts are when you talk to yourself. 😊

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Lol!!! I do tend to rattle on!😊❤️

[@sheilajeancook6580]

Thank you so much. What a blessing you are.

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Oh, my, Sheila Jean! Thank you so much! Have you thought about joining the classroom? It’d be 3,5 or 7 per month but you get all the classes and I would encourage you to join at 3 because you have already completely knocked me out with your generosity. Seriously, you have. I’m so, so, so appreciative. ❤️❤️❤️ think about it. Here is a link: kzbin.info/door/eRlb3K2k-_b1QAGYDuW1IQjoin If I could gift it to you, I would but YT has control!

[@sheilajeancook6580]

@@DonnaKatoArtYou are so kind Donna. Your time and giving of your knowledge and talents means a great deal to me. Thank you again. See you Sunday.

[@kristibbradshaw]

Your work is so lovely. You are quite an artist.

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Thank you! Cheers!😊❤️

[@CindyMarks-ze8db]

The ones you said were the ugliest are my favorites!!! Please tell me you didn't throw them away like you said you were going to!!! I really enjoyed your tutorial! Thank you.

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Thank you, Cindy! I still have them-they’re growing on me! 😊❤️

[@nancyleesol207]

I just love the whole series! I’m actually going to try to use this as my on the go project. I’d love to try the cane to take with. Again amazing and thank you

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Hi Nancy! I love it, too, kid. I made a few bunnies and an owl was suggested - good idea! Hugs!😊❤️

[@semigoth299]

I started watching the polymer clay from Arlene’s show ? and now I’m watching everything that I can.

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Yay!😊❤️

[@suzanneserrurier2233]

Donna, these are so adorable, each one has their own personality and so beautiful! You are so amazing at what you do and how you can visualize how to use your beautiful canes in so many ways getting such a variety of different effects! I've said it before, but I'll say it again, I love how you always have a song in your heart! Such an amazing woman you are! Thanks for sharing your talents and creativity with us. Don't let the Negative Nancy's of the world put out your light. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and my husband was watching this video and he absolutely loved the 3 that you were not too happy with! He said those are neat and I really like them. He's never said that about any clay projects of mine! Keep on inspiring us, and keep om singing!❤❤❤

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Hi Suzanne! Thank you so much. Sooo many canes but so many ways to use them, right? I enjoy making these very much. You’re right about negative people, they are among us and we can’t give them power over any aspect of our lives. Please thank your husband, too (he had to see the end of the class to see those pieces!!) I appreciate that, truly. Thank you, Suzanne!😊❤️

[@lynnetaylor0434]

Interested in your “new jelly roll”. It looks very unique but not sure how you made it. The eyes from that cane were perfect. Your creative mind envisions your results. Beautiful 💞

[@DonnaKatoArt]

I have to look, Lynne! Now, am reshooting the ring bug cane…!😊❤️

[@christinemargaretvarey4201]

I absolutely love your bugs.They are wonderful.Thankyou so much for teaching us such beautiful things.Mine will probably look like it has been swatted but I’m going to have a go.❤

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Yay, Christine! 😊❤️

[@kymmaraldo1365]

Oh, I hope you haven't binned the "ugly" ones! They are lovely, Donna. Maybe offer a giveaway and get us to comment that we love them. I see other comments expressing love for them, also. Please don't throw them out. I would love to have something made by your clever mind and hands. You are making me believe that I could make wonderful canes and use them in crazy gorgeous pieces like all of these! As always, this was an eye-opening tutorial and I appreciate your time and effort to present them to us for free xx

[@DonnaKatoArt]

I have to do some giveaways again and these would be a good way to get back in the swing! 😊❤️🎉

[@barbkeith2697]

I LOVE your “ugly” ones! They’re beautiful!

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Thank you, Barb!😊❤️

[@RubyGirlJewels]

I love this video Donna! Thank You! I learned a lot!

[@DonnaKatoArt]

You’re welcome, Ruby Girl!😊❤️

[@RubyGirlJewels]

@@DonnaKatoArt I placed another order on your website. I can't wait to get my package! You're the best!

[@yrt66]

How wonderful are these?!

[@DonnaKatoArt]

They make me happy! 😊❤️

[@marystribling3104]

Yayyyy 😅, now I can make some of these!! They are so neat and beautiful, thank you so very much ❤ 😊

[@DonnaKatoArt]

You go, Mary!!!😊❤️🎉

[@craftylittlerthings]

I don’t think any of the animals you made were ugly, the one you said most ugly, made me think it looked like a giraffe, I liked them hugs x Ann x

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Thanks, Ann!😊❤️

[@janetwebb2701]

These remind me of some beautifully painted, African trible art i saw at an import company! Need i say the carvings were well out of my price range? Well, you have certainly inspred me!!!

[@cindyjames3686]

Donna, I love your "poor prey animal" - it looks like he is sticking his tongue out at the predators around him!!!!!!!

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Lol! 😊❤️

[@Uniquely-You]

Yessssss I’m so excited

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Yay!😊❤️

[@tanyanastasi243]

Woo hoo! Its a cold rainy day here in Massachusetts. This is just what I needed! Thank you, Donna!... And now I need bullet boxes too. 😂

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Yay!😊❤️🎉

[@kalonakitu]

Thank you, Donna. 💜🎨👑

[@DonnaKatoArt]

You are so welcome, Kalona!😊❤️

[@freckledfriend]

The 2 Jaguars at 2:08 are wonderful. I don't think they are failures. So colorful and full of patterns. I like that their eyelids cover more to the eye ball too. I haven't tried this yet and have no rights to judge..

[@DonnaKatoArt]

You have every right to comment! Please, don’t ever feel you shouldn’t. I think you’re right about the eyeballs. A heavier lid gives a softer appearance! 😊❤️

[@annastellarossi4749]

Thank you Donna Kato ❤

[@DonnaKatoArt]

You’re very welcome, Annastella!😊❤️

[@lyleannwise7492]

Very inspiring! I never thought to do this. I love the prey animals even the highly embellished one😀

[@DonnaKatoArt]

I see caned animals in your future…!😊❤️

[@lyleannwise7492]

@@DonnaKatoArt I think your right. I just have to finish my sons quilt first. Thanks for the inspiration

[@addjewelry]

I hope you didn’t throw those pieces away! So many people would have loved to have worn them.

[@melodycmontgomery2978]

THOSE PIECES ARE NOT UGLY! Lol.. I love them! I know this video was released a while ago, but if you have not thrown them away, DON'T! I think they are beautiful! If you don't want them, I do :)

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Thank you, Melody. I keep them as a reminder that I sometimes have a tendency to engage in moremoremoremore...I need reminders, sometimes!

[@cindyjames3686]

I have found that stud earring backs also work for antennae. I use them on my "snails."

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Great idea, Cindy! 😊❤️

[@cindyjames3686]

MORE!!! We want more!!! How about a Hawk, Owl, Wolf, and Bear!!!!!!!!! I LOVE this class and watch it over and over!!!!!!

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Yes!

[@kathleenriley7178]

Amazing!!! I wish I had a cane stash like that. I will have to build one up. What are the different applications that are best for poly paste and poly clay? I tend to use more poly paste where I notice you use poly clay. Another thing, I get really hyper focused on symmetry. It’s the bane of my existence at times. Anyway, to help me cope with that I use my cricut and cut out a perfectly symmetrical shape of what I’m making and make a flat clay piece to use as a template and work on top of that piece so I can shape and/or trim away whatever isn’t just right. A bonus is I end up with a template for future projects. If that makes sense. Sorry so long. Your vids always get my brain going with ?’s and the like. I can’t wait for the classroom!!!

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Hi Kathleen! You will build your stash - here’s the thing, I keep every bit I can, down to the tiniest strands. If I have left over blends, I roll them up and make them canes. Jellyrolls, bullseyes. Now, Kato Clear Medium and PolyPaste frequently perform equally well. When that happens, I use KCM because it’s cheaper. If you really need to fill an area, then PolyPaste is the way to go. I’m working on a class that will show. I love symmetry, Like you, my mind is pulled in that direction. It takes real effort to depart from it. It sounds like you have a great system! Classroom is coming! 😊❤️🎉

[@lindylittleton4183]

I think your so-called ugly ones are great, they lean more towards fantasy animals. I will have a go at the bugs, but i do wish i had canes like yours. thanks for sharing

[@carleenburnette3710]

I wouldn’t say they’re ugly I would say they’re one of a kind

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Lol! I like that!😊❤️

[@MissGvous85]

Oh my, bullet boxes?????? And in a department store? (Yes, I live outside the US). Anyway, an amazing creation, Donna (and I don’t mean the bullet boxes. 😜)

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Yup! The only good thing to come from gun world, bullet boxes. Sad, isn’t if? So sad. ❤️

[@mimisthoughts4699]

I am NO ONE to fault Dona kato, but that poor kitty has a dog nose!❤️❤️

[@DonnaKatoArt]

LOLOOO!!! you cracked me up, kid!

[@cherylfrancis4160]

Thanks!

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Thank you so much, Cheryl! Much appreciated! 😊❤️

[@eleranalimitless2363]

you are amazing sweetheart!

[@yazmintorres6536]

Esas piezas “feas” para mi son las más hermosas.❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@moonunit60]

Aww Donna you are amazing, so inspiring and your work is brilliant, do you know I love your 'ugly' pieces, so sometimes what you see others don't, I have learned that with my own work and your wee Gnu and Jaguar's shouldn't go in the bin, someone will LOVE them ❤️ Thanks for sharing your wee creatures, and I'm going to have a go at the bugs 😊 By the way, I also got a kick out of your singing 😂 I tend to listen to music when I'm working, so I'm usually singing too, just so feel good. I've also looked into getting some bullet boxes for my canes, just so much more difficult in Scotland as we have no guns (we do but not in supermarkets y'know), but I found some on a military site and pretty reasonably priced too, so thanks for that idea.

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Thank you, Morag! You’ll have fun creating your own wee creatures (love that!). There are sooo many more to make, right? Time to make turtles and fish and sheep, to name just a few. I think more classes on using canes is in order… take care and glad you found the boxes. They’re the only thing good about gun culture. Big hugs😊❤️!

[@moonunit60]

​@@DonnaKatoArt fabulous news re: more canes, you take so much care with yours, it's great to watch your process and learn new skills ❤ Muckle Love Donna 😊 keep on creating, we appreciate it 😍

[@kristibbradshaw]

I love them. Send them to me. Don’t throw them away.

[@DonnaKatoArt]

😊❤️🎉

[@sototallyusAZ]

I actually really like the ones you think are ugly LOL

[@dwallace2142]

WOW WOW WOWWWWW🎉🎉🎉🎉 I ❤️ bugs!

[@DonnaKatoArt]

👏👏👏😊❤️

[@yvesworld]

waow waow waow Fabulous

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Thank you, Stephane! Use those canes!😊❤️

[@angelmom916]

Love these…I can’t do this…I’ve failed too many times…Do you sell your animals? I’d be interested in bugs,and gnus and jaguars oh my!

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Sure, Linda! Just shoot me an email - [e-mail]! Cheers, D 😊❤️

[@carey1121]

So inspiring, clever and talented. The ugly ones are cool too. Hope they didn’t really go in the trash 🤪

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Nope, they're right here! They're growing on me...lol! Hugs, D

[@carey1121]

@@DonnaKatoArt ❤️❤️

[@kilodeltawhisky1504]

Ok, this opens a big ol door to the world of polymer clay... How many hobbies can a woman have? Answer: all of them...!

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Bingo! You can never have too many hobbies, kid. Hugs, D

[@kilodeltawhisky1504]

@@DonnaKatoArt lol! I am a newlywed, and so happy that my husband accepts my many creative pursuits. I laugh when he drops me off at the door at Hobby Lobby, both of us knowing I'll be in there for at least an hour.. or when I unpack after hitting a thrift store. Now I need a store front..

[@kilodeltawhisky1504]

First time seeing your artwork and I can barely hear you. Volume on my phone is up as high as it goes. Aside from that, the canes, the bugs, the bullet boxes full of cane samples....🥳🥳

[@DonnaKatoArt]

I will try to speak up! Hugs, D

[@lightbulbnirvana]

Hi Donna, I actually think your "failures" are better than the rest. I like them a lot. You might put them away for a week and then look at them again with fresh eyes, and see why they are delightful. True, the surface is more busy, but I don't think they are FAILURES. Just DIFFERENT. The long deer mask with the downturned horns does look over the top compared to the others. Still, I wonder if you have discovered a new aesthetic. I agree it's a lot different than your previous work. Why not consider this as a portal to a new direction. For example I think this piece would be amazing if it were two or three times larger to hang on the wall. I don't think I've seem any polymer projects like this. I think it's superb! Don't get Judgey McJudge all over yourself! I do know why you area saying they are ugly. However, I think they are just busy and that can be its own aesthetic. Please don't throw them away! If you are going to trash them, please sent them to me!

[@DonnaKatoArt]

New eyes are a good thing! Thank you, my friend. Different is better than failure, for sure. I think they might be “kitschy”? I am certain I will find myself there again! Big hugs!😊❤️🎉

[@trishgager2882]

What kind and size of crystals did you use and where can I get them. I love all your videos!❤

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Hi Trish, they’re tiny. I don’t know the size but I think you’ll find similar crystals used for nail art!😊❤️

[@dedreagautier1227]

I absolutely LOVE your brand of ugly! I hope I can come even close.

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Lol! ❤️😊

[@tanyanastasi243]

I had to come back and share an idea about attaching the horns... What if we insert the ball pin into the horn, and bake them separately... And THEN insert them into the uncured head? I'm just thinking it might be easier to attach hardened horns. Would that work? :)

[@DonnaKatoArt]

That would work, Tanya! Yup! Good thinking, kid. You would be a bit restricted as to the shaping on the head but for these simple horns, would work nicely!😊❤️

[@tanyanastasi243]

@@DonnaKatoArt Good point on being restricted... But I will try it and see how it goes. Thanks! 💖

[@cindyjames3686]

AND MORE!!! A Snake, Fish, Giraffe,...!!!

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Yes!

[@gaylemoore3342]

Have you made an owl using your canes?

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Ooh, good idea! Got to try that! 😊❤️

[@morrispicturestudios4458]

How did you make the disks?

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Kemper cutters, I think! 😊

[@mssandisandi6853]

You inspired me… I made some but I don’t know how to show them to you here….

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Hello! You know YT should let everyone post pictures but they don’t! I’m looking for ways for classroom members to post and communicate now. I hope to work this out soon. If you’d like you can send them to me directly. [e-mail]!😊❤️

[@tracydaviesart5864]

maybe instead of throwing out, paint them....or shade out some of the busyness with acrylic or gouache....

[@DonnaKatoArt]

Good ideas! Cheers, D

[@kristibbradshaw]

It looks like an orax.

[@Uniquely-You]

No Donna I’ll take them don’t throw them out PLEASE

[@DonnaKatoArt]

You know, I looked at the gnu and I couldn’t toss him - he has personality! And, he’s a reminder for me. I need that!😊❤️