about the artist

Karen Pasieka

Karen is a self-taught polymer clay artist from Richmond Hill, ON. As a young girl, she was drawn to art and craft of multiple disciplines, but found herself continually called back to clay. She enjoyed the experience of working with her hands, and creating three dimensional pieces. It was her dual interest in design and math that led her to complete her Bachelor of Architecture degree from the University of Toronto, followed by 5 plus years of industry experience. She then left that field in search of work that would give her more creative control and fulfillment, utilizing those skills learned through her education and work experience to launch her business, Subtle Details, in 2007.

"The name Subtle Details reflects my design sensibilities. My professional training taught me the value of hashing out minute details in pursuit of quiet perfection, and I carry this philosophy through in my works. Each component of every piece is considered. The broad range of products I create (framed sculpture, jewellery, ornaments, and cake toppers) are unified not only through the medium of polymer clay, but also through their sense of cheerful whimsy, and consideration of colour, form, and texture." - Karen Pasieka

medium

All of Karen's works are made with polymer clay, a synthetic, oven bake modeling clay. Each brand of polymer clay has its own unique properties, and as such, is carefully selected for each project type, based on need for flexibility, durability, texture, and colour quality.

Jewellery pieces are completed with .925 sterling silver, and occasionally memory wire (for necklaces), art wire (for pendant bases), or Swarovski as needed to finish the design.

technique

Each project begins with the blending of colour. While polymer clay comes packaged in a variety of hues, these are then mixed by hand, and with tools (such as a pasta roller), to create the perfect palette. Primarily created through hand manipulation, other rudimentary tools (such as pins, toothpicks and skewers) are used for the placing of tiny pieces of clay, and the making of textures (such as stippling). Once satisfied with the design, pieces are baked in an oven to cure.

guarantees & policies

Karen is serious about the quality of the works she presents to her customers! It is important however, to remember that polymer clay can be delicate, and should be handled with care, much like other fine jewellery or ceramics. Follow the care instructions below, and your polymer clay piece will remain good as new for years to come. Should you feel that your purchase has broken unreasonably, and it is within 30 days of purchase, please contact karen@subtledetails.ca, or 416-931-8598, to make arrangements for repair or replacement. If you require repair of an item purchased that is beyond the 30 day policy, there may be a nominal fee (to be determined on a case-by-case basis).

Deposits for commissions and workshops are non-refundable after 10 business days.

care instructions

polymer clay: The polymer clay used in your jewellery piece, ornament, or cake topper is somewhat flexible after curing, and has some resilience to impact. However it is most delicate at the connections between clay components and should be handled with care. Avoid exposure to creams, perfumes, make-up, etc. If needed, dirt and dust may be cleaned off with a soft, wet cloth, or gentle scrubbing with a toothbrush and water. Polymer clay is fade resistant and waterproof. Let wet polymer clay air dry.

sterling silver: Store sterling silver jewellery in a zip lock bag to avoid tarnishing. Tarnished sterling silver may be cleaned with a short dip in sterling silver cleaner (polymer clay included), followed by a thorough water rinse, and air drying. A sterling silver polishing cloth may also be effective.

memory wire: For storing in smaller spaces (bag or box), unhook memory wire necklaces, and allow wire to coil naturally. Be careful not to bend memory wire against its natural flow, as it's not likely to regain its original form. Kinks in the wire may be diminished by gently bending back in the opposite direction. Do not run your finger along the wire, as it may curl like a curling ribbon.