Polymer Clay

Fimo and clay tips and tutorials

Fingerprints – tips to keep them at bay!

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layering.JPGFingerprints are the bane of my existence.  I spend a lot of time sanding and buffing my beads to smooth away the offending marks. Each time I think, “why didn’t I just take a minute to get rid of these fingerprints before I put my beads in the oven. “ 

A few ways I minimize fingerprints on my polymer clay creations. 

1. Use cornstarch – a little on the palm of my hand before I roll beads does wonders.

2. Use my finger to gentle rub against the fingerprint to smooth it out.

3. I use my acrylic dowel to roll over a bead to smooth out any rough spots.

Want more?  Clever blogger, Mossy Owl has posted 10 ten ways to reduce fingerprints.

[tags]polymer clay, tips, diy, crafts[/tags]

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Comments

  2. that is a great suggestion, if you can stand to wear gloves while working. For some strange reason, I need to have my fingers on the clay to feel like I’m really creating. 🙂

Have you read?

Clay Studio Series – YouTube Video Review: DIY Stoneware Plates

If you’ve ever dreamed of making your own dinnerware but thought you needed fancy tools or a pottery wheel, this YouTube tutorial by Jana Storm is a must-watch. In this video, Jana walks us through the process of creating handmade stoneware plates using simple methods and beginner-friendly tips.

Jana shows how to shape and form plates using stoneware clay with 25% chamotte in white. What makes this tutorial so appealing is that she proves you don’t need a wheel to create functional, food-safe ceramics. She also shares tips for pottering at home and reassures beginners that even without a full studio setup, you can still make beautiful pieces.

Why We Love It

  • Accessible: No wheel required, just basic hand-building techniques.

  • Practical: The plates are food-safe and even dishwasher-friendly after firing.

  • Educational: Jana explains firing at 1250°C and where to find kilns if you don’t own one (check out kilnshare.com or your local pottery studio).

  • Inspiring: With her calm approach, she makes the art of ceramics feel doable for everyone.

Materials and Glazes Used

To finish the plates, Jana uses liquid glazes from BOTZ:

  • Green Granite

  • Beige Granite

  • Grey Basalt

She also works with a simple pottery tool starter set, showing that you don’t need an expensive kit to get started.

Craft Gossip’s Take

This video is a perfect entry point for anyone curious about ceramics. The tutorial is well-paced, easy to follow, and practical for home hobbyists. While it does require kiln access, Jana gives great advice for finding one nearby. The finished plates are not only beautiful but also functional — making this tutorial both inspiring and useful.

If you’ve been thinking about trying your hand at DIY stoneware pottery, this is the video to start with.