Polymer Clay

Fimo and clay tips and tutorials

CHA Summer show and Bottles of Hope

by

A couple weeks a ago I attended the CHA ( Craft and Hobby Association ) summer show in Illinois. I volunteered to go with Ilysa of Polymer Clay Productions to help her out with some filming she had planned to do . Ilysa is a fun and outgoing person to be around. Even though I already knew her from my membership with PCAGOE, this was the first time we had met in person. It was like seeing an old friend again! We had a blast that weekend. I got to meet Lisa Palveka (of Heart in Hand Studio and Covered in Clay) and watched her do a demo for Ilysa to film. She is a very sweet lady and I was very humbled in her presence. I wish I had had the time to sit in on one of the classes she taught that weekend. One can dream……

Even though I had a great time, I was a little disappointed with the show. It was 99% scrapbooking vendors. I was hoping that all of the polymer clay related companies were going to be there. Ilysa told me that there were a lot of companies that didn’t show up at this time. We did however meet with Kathy of Staedtler and she gave Ilysa the info on the Bottle of Hope Designer’s challenge.  This year the theme is “A Message of Hope”. Here are the contest guidelines:

The bottle used must be any standard size bottle such as the ones used during chemotherapy treatment, insulin bottles, or any glass bottle 4 inches or smaller.

75% of the piece must be made with Fimo brand clay

All entries must be received by December 15, 2008.

Three award categories:

Best expression of hope, chosen by Lisa Pavleka and the Staedtler group.

Best of show, chosen by leading editors in the craft industry.

Peoples choice award, chosen from the attendees.

Each winner will get $250 for themselves and $500 donated to a cancer related charity or hospital of their choice.

The top four entries will receiving the most votes at CHA will receive a gift basket valued at $100 retail.

Get busy on your submissions, December always seems to sneak up on some people (like me) .

Good luck on everyone’s entries.

Have you read?

How to Make Beautiful Stamped Clay Pots with Air Dry Clay

If you’ve ever wanted to dip your toes into clay crafts without the fuss of a kiln, air dry clay is your new best friend. It’s affordable, easy to work with, and dries beautifully into something that looks much fancier than it really is. These DIY stamped clay pots are the perfect weekend project. They’re practical, pretty, and make wonderful handmade gifts. Think pen holders, plant pots, or even a little bathroom organizer for makeup brushes.

Why You’ll Love This Project

  • No kiln or oven required – just let the clay dry naturally.

  • Endless design possibilities with stamps, lace, or texture mats.

  • A chic way to organize your desk, vanity, or craft room.

  • Great gift idea (fill with treats, pens, or a little succulent).

Supplies You’ll Need

  • Air-dry clay (white or terracotta works best)

  • Rolling pin (or a smooth glass bottle)

  • Stamps, lace, or textured rolling pins for designs

  • Craft knife or clay cutter

  • Water and a small paintbrush (for smoothing seams)

  • Cylinder form (a glass, tin can, or jar to shape the pot)

  • Sandpaper (fine grit, for finishing)

  • Optional: acrylic paints or clear sealant

Step-by-Step Tutorial

Step 1: Roll Out the Clay

Sprinkle a little cornstarch on your surface so the clay doesn’t stick. Roll your clay into a flat slab about ¼ inch thick. Keep it even so your pot doesn’t dry lopsided.

Step 2: Add the Texture

Now for the fun part! Press your stamp, lace, or textured roller firmly into the clay. Don’t worry about perfection—slight variations give it that handmade charm.

Step 3: Cut Your Rectangle

Measure your cylinder (jar, can, or glass) and cut a rectangle of clay that will wrap all the way around it. Cut out a circle of clay for the base.

Step 4: Build the Pot

Wrap the clay rectangle around your form and gently press the seam together. Use a little water and a paintbrush to smooth it out. Attach the circular base with the same water “glue” method, blending the edges for strength.

Step 5: Smooth & Shape

Run damp fingers along the rim and seams to soften rough edges. This is where your pot starts looking polished.

Step 6: Drying Time

Let your pot air dry for 24–48 hours (depending on the clay brand and thickness). Don’t rush this step—if the clay dries too quickly, it can crack.

Step 7: Sand & Finish

Once dry, lightly sand any rough spots. You can leave it raw white for a chic, minimal look, or paint/seal it with acrylic paints and clear varnish for extra durability.

Creative Ideas for Stamped Clay Pots

  • Boho Vibes: Use lace doilies for a soft, romantic texture.

  • Rustic Look: Try a wooden stamp or burlap fabric pressed into the clay.

  • Modern Minimalist: Leave the pot smooth and paint it matte black or terracotta.

  • Giftable Touch: Wrap with twine and tuck in a small succulent.

Tips

  • Keep unused clay wrapped tightly in plastic so it doesn’t dry out.

  • If cracks appear, fill with a little clay slip (clay mixed with water).

  • Don’t make your pots too tall or thin—the clay is stronger in compact shapes.

These DIY air dry clay pots prove that you don’t need a pottery wheel to create beautiful handmade pieces. Whether you use them for storage, décor, or gifting, each one turns out unique—just like handmade should be.