Julie Picarello

My background is in the computer industry, where for over 25 years I have designed integrated circuits with computer-aided design tools. To counter all that left-brained activity, I’ve experimented with a wide range of artistic mediums such as glass blowing, glass fusing, lampwork beads, felting, wire working, bookmaking, metal etching, enameling, silversmithing and more.

Yet it wasn’t until 2004 when I was introduced to polymer clay that I became truly passionate about one medium, finding that the endless combinations of shape, color and texture resulted in unique wearable art. My designs reflect my love of color, symmetry and clean lines, yet also allow for a bit of whimsy with incorporation of metal accents, hardware, buttons and vintage found objects.

I’ve been lucky enough to have traveled across the US, Canada, Europe and the Mid-East to teach, and I've met so many wonderful and creative people along the way. I hope that this book will be the next best thing for those who are unable to attend a workshop in person, and I wish them all the best on their polymer journey!