Polymer Clay

Fimo and clay tips and tutorials

Artist Spotlight: Grant Diffendaffer

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bookcover.jpgGrant Diffendaffer’s beads tap into the primordial influences of moculuer structures and hidden organism of the sea.  His work is other worldly yet deeply rooted in the minute details of the natural world. 

I’m eagerly awaiting the release of his new book, Polymer Clay Beads: Techniques, Projects and Inspiration coming out in January 2008. 

Grant teaches across the country and has been featured in many publications over the years.  He recently answered the artist spotlight questions to give a little glimpse into his creative process.

What was your first polymer clay project?

My first projects was a necklace of small marbled sculpey beads.

Besides a pasta machine, what polymer clay tool can’t you live without?

A tissue blade.

What inspires your polymer clay creations?

I am inspired by nature.  Especially sea life, seed pods, and microscopic organisms.

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Would you share a color recipe with us?

I don’t use a lot of recipes really.  I like turquoise–about 10 parts white pearl to one green pearl and one blue pearl.  I tend to vary the mixture though.

To view more of Grant’s work and to follow along with his inspiring blog, visit his website.

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[tags]polymer clay, grant diffendaffer, polymer clay beads[/tags]

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Comments

  1. Greetings on a pearl like autumn day. I tried to get a hold of Heather Powers through her link here but all I get is to the bee-dog. I’ve tried several other links but none has been successful. Please, may I have the e-mail to contact her?

    Thank you,
    Jean

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.