Polymer Clay

Fimo and clay tips and tutorials

Ancient Modern: Book giveaway!

by

by Ronna Sarvas Weltman
by Ronna Sarvas Weltman

Hello readers!  It’s time for another *drumroll please* book giveaway!  I’ll be giving the book  Ancient Modern: Polymer Clay and Wire Jewelry to one lucky commenter!  (And this is a really fabulous book!  You can read my review here.)

Leave us a note in the comments of this post – you can tell us about your favorite tool, your latest clay project, or just say hello.   This next part is very important: you must leave a way or me to get a hold of you, let you know you’ve won, and get your mailing information!

I will be drawing a name out of a hat and announcing it on the blog in one week  (Friday May 29)

[tags]book giveaway, ancient modern: polymer clay and wire jewelry[/tags]

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Comments

  2. This book looks beyond yummy!!! Currently I’m back into stamping on clay and then distressing. My most useful tool would be a toothpick or scewer to drill holes as I like stringing on rubber cording. My favorite tools are my texture sheets and the texture stamps I have made from clay.

    I’ll buy this book if I don’t win it…hope I went though, 😀

  3. I’m really excited about this book and I can’t wait to get my hands on it. I’d love to win it but I’ll be buying a copy if I don’t.

  4. The book looks great, I’m signing up for the drawing and keeping my fingers crossed

    Darla – arrived via Craft Gossip

    dbande AT hotmail DOT com

  5. Polymer clay has opened a new world to me. After retiring as a nurse to help raise my grandson I knew I needed more. As my grandson grew I started working with clay. I am now also dabbling in collage, assemblage and encaustics among other things, but clay will always be first in my heart.

  7. I recently got interested in Polymer Clay and can use all the help I can get! I’m one for following directions to the “T” until I get the hang of it, so this is a book I can sink my teeth into. Thanks for the review and for the giveaway.

  8. I live in the “bottom” of Europe in a tinny little country, Portugal. It’s a friendly , beautiful and sunny country.
    I have no longer a job, so I work at home creating all the projects I can get with polymer clay and wire ( rings, neclaces, incens supports…).
    Your book would be such a marvellous gift, that I do not dare to dream about. I never never never win a price ah ah ah !!!!
    I apoligize my english (my portuguese is much better!!!!)

    Bye bye and thank you for this chance to win your helpful book.

    Ana

  10. this book looks wonderful… right now i’m working on some clay gargoyles. one of my fav tools is the simple garlic press, gives me all kinds of squiggley things

Have you read?

Clay Studio Series – YouTube Video Review: What type of clay should I use?

What Type of Clay Should I Use? Comparing Three Stoneware Bodies

If there’s one question that potters—especially beginners—ask over and over again, it’s this: “What type of clay should I use?” With so many options available, from smooth white bodies to gritty, speckled stonewares, the choice can feel overwhelming. In this Clay Studio Series feature, we’re reviewing a video that takes the guesswork out by throwing, trimming, and comparing three distinct stoneware clays side by side.

Why This Video Stands Out

Instead of just talking about clay in theory, the potter works directly with three clay bodies and shows the differences in real time. You can see how each clay reacts on the wheel, how it trims when leather-hard, and what kinds of issues may arise depending on the body you choose. This hands-on comparison makes it far easier to understand than simply reading product labels.

The video also tackles a common curiosity: the pink-toned ES80 stoneware, often admired for its warm coloring. The creator points out that this clay is manufactured for reduction firing and won’t give the same results in oxidation, a detail that often gets overlooked by beginners.

Key Lessons for Beginners

  • Not All Clay is Equal: Some clay bodies are far more forgiving for new potters, while others require more experience to manage.

  • Know Your Firing Method: Certain clays, like ES80, are formulated specifically for reduction kilns. Using them in an electric oxidation kiln may leave you disappointed.

  • Texture & Plasticity Matter: Smooth clays can be easier to throw but may slump when trimming. Grittier bodies hold structure but can be harder on your hands.

  • There’s No Single “Best” Clay: Each clay has its pros and cons — the trick is matching your choice to your skill level and the project you have in mind.

Why We Recommend Watching

For beginners, choosing the right clay can mean the difference between frustration and success. This video demystifies the process by giving a clear visual comparison of three popular stoneware options. By the end, you’ll have a better idea of what qualities to look for in a clay body and which ones might fit your needs best.

For intermediate and advanced potters, the insights are still valuable. Even if you’ve been working with one clay for years, seeing how others handle could inspire you to experiment with something new.

This review proves that clay choice is less about finding a universal “best” and more about learning what works for you. Whether you want smooth, easy-to-handle clay for your first mugs or a robust, grogged body for sculptural pieces, this video is a fantastic guide to help you make a confident decision.

Watch the full video here: What Type of Clay Should I Use?