Eggs done by Laura Orlomoski: swirl design, two mosaics and a lapis lazuli simulation.
COVERING CHICKEN EGGS WITH POLYMER CLAY
1) Start with an eggshell that has been blown out, rinsed (with bleach, if desired) and dried.
2) Roll a slab of clay at least 2 1/2 inches high by 6 inches long. The thickness should be a middle setting on the pasta machine, almost any size that you are comfortable using will work. Remember that thicker slabs and adding additional design layers will add to the total weight of the finished egg.
3) Using a sharp blade, trim one of the short ends of the slab so that it is straight. Save the cut piece.
4) Apply the cut edge to the egg, pressing lightly to adhere. Roll the egg in the slab. When the clay starts to overlap itself, roll back and cut on the line embossed from the first rolling.
5) Butt the ends together and lightly join the seam around the middle of the egg.
6a) Hold the egg in one hand and with the other hand gently fold and pinch the clay up to the top. Slice off any large folds and bumps that result. Turn the egg over and repeat for the bottom. Join and smooth all seams.
6b) Hold the egg in one hand and with the other hand gently fold small sections of the flaps up onto the uncovered top of the egg. Press gently to adhere. When the clay begins to buckle or overlap, slice a straight line from the curved part of the egg where the clay is already stuck and the buckle begins. Slice straight up through the edge of the clay, you may press your blade against the egg but remember not to press too hard! Adjust the flap you just created by flattening it on the exposed shell, overlapping the last flap. Press the top layer lightly against the edge of the bottom layer; a small ridge will form. Cut as close to the ridge as you can and remove the triangular (usually) piece. Continue around the top until all of the clay is stuck on or removed. Slowly rotate the egg with one hand while cutting a circular piece into the clay with the other hand. Remove the inner piece, leaving a nice circle at the top. Take the scrap piece from above, place it over the bald top, pressing gently where it overlaps. Carefully cut against the ridge, remove the excess and smooth the seams.
7) Try to smooth the egg out as much as possible before baking, to decrease the amount of sanding later.
Laura Orlomoski