1. Form the pressed colors into a log shape by rolling them on the work surface. Holding the log, grab one end and start twisting. Fold over the clay and twist again.
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2. Flatten one side of the thick log of colors. Using the pasta machine on the 2nd thinnest setting roll out a long rectangle. Lay flat on the work surface and trim into a very long and fat rectangle.
Using another 1/3 of the translucent/white mix, roll a long rectangle on the 4th thinnest setting. Trim edges.
Cut ¼” wide sections of the neutral colored rectangle, stacking them on top of each other. Alternate every 5 or 6th layer with a white/translucent layer until you’ve reached the end of your clay.
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Cut this block in half and layer the two halves on top of each other. Trim to form a thick rectangle.
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4. Roll out a 1/3 of the translucent/white mixture on the 4th thinnest setting, trim into a rectangle. Cut cross sections of the striped cane on the widest side, place the sections onto the white clay, repeat until the white clay is completely covered. Trim into a rectangle.
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5. Flatten one end and roll the sheet into a spiral. This is called a cane.
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6. Place the cane on the work surface and gently start rolling the cane back and forth until the tube is as thick as you’d like your beads. It’s best to let this cane set for an hour before proceeding.
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7. Using the cutting blade, cut ¼” slices of the cane to make beads. Use a headpin, poke a hole. Bake according to the manufacturer directions.
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Variation
Roll a ball of clay in your hands to form a basic bead shape, cut paper thin layers of the cane and apply them to the base bead. After the bead is covered, roll it gentle in your hands until the seams disappear. Poke a hole using the headpin and bake.
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To make a disk shape, press down evenly with your fingers. Turn bead over and press gently until the bead is an even thickness. Poke holes with headpin or heavy gauge wire.
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Here is another color combination using black, white, gold and translucent.
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