Polymer Clay

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Artist Spotlight: Christi Friesen

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bluebelle.jpgAward-winning artist Christi Friesen has sparked our imagination with her fantastic creatures, other-worldly designs and her openness to share her work and techniques. Christi has won numerous awards, published 4 books and graced many magazine pages with her wonderful and wildly popular projects.

Christi took a few minutes out of her busy schedule to share some her thoughts on her creative journey.

What was your first polymer clay project?

My first polymer clay project was when I was teaching myself how to play with this fun product. I had always sculpted in kiln-fired clays previously, so having unlimited colors to work with while creating (instead of adding on afterwards as glazes) was new and very interesting! Of course, as you know, it takes a while to settle down to a color palette – the first stuff is often made from every color you own. Mine first stuff was – blobs! literally – little blobs of clay with faces and every color possible. They were quite hideous.
Besides a pasta machine, what polymer clay tool can’t you live without?

My favorite tool is a wooden sculpting tool (#JA17, made by Kemper)- if I only had that, I could still make everything I do with it (of course, you wouldn’t want too – more tools are part of the fun!)
What inspires your polymer clay creations?

Everything inspires me! nature, of course, since my designs are all organic. I love the art work of ancient cultures – Aztec, Egyptian, Celtic. And anything at all from the Art Nouveau period – love it, love it, love it!
Oh, and chocolate – that inspires me (especially the creamy dark stuff.)

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Would you share a color recipe with us?

One of my favorite mixes is Premo gold and green pearl – a wonderful rich, olivey color that varies by how the ratio of the two colors are combined. I love that color!

To view more of Christi’s work visit her main website or her art jewelry website.

She also has an awesome download page with sample projects.

[tags]polymer clay, arts and crafts, Christi Friesen[/tags]

Comments

  3. I have made several birds from Christi/s mixed media book and they all seem too big and thick to wear as pins. What is the size of the bird find before its tailed etc and how thick is it? Love her work and thanks for this website.

  4. Hey Dorothy!

    A lot of Christi’s pieces are quite substantial. If you find the instructions lead to a piece that is too large for your tastes, I’d reduce the amount of clay you’re using. If pieces start to look too thin or fragile, reinforce with liquid clay or make sure to use wire for the skeletons.

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.