Polymer Clay

Fimo and clay tips and tutorials

Artist Spotlight: Michele Gabriel Studios

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gab1.jpgI have been of fan of Michele Gabriel’s beads and pendants since I first found etsy.  Michele’s work has a unique feel of mystery and story-telling conveyed in each little creation.  I love her mix of painterly and sculptural effects, making her pendants works of art.  She’s been featured many times on the Art Bead Scene blog and here too!Â

Visit Michele’s Etsy shop to view her gallery of creations: Michele Gabriel Studios
1. What was your first polymer clay project?
My first pc project was jewelry, of course! I was having difficulty finding beads
and pendants that I really liked, so I decided to make my own. It was a necklace
of square tiles that I embedded glass beads into, textured and wired together with copper wire. I was/am intrigued by the jewelry of ancient civilizations; I was trying to create my own antiquities. Hmmm….maybe I need to revisit that idea, 20 years later!

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2. Besides a pasta machine, what polymer clay tool can’t you live without?
I can’t live without my collection of sticks. I use chopsticks, knitting needles and skewers for everything from shaping and carving to holding the projects in the oven while they cure. I also wrap wire around them to make my own jewelry findings.

3. What inspires your polymer clay creations?
I have to say initially my inspiration comes from nature. I’d rather be outside most of the time, usually lying about in the grass. Our weather changes with the seasons, so there is endless inspiration just beyond my front door. My family is also full of opinions as to what my next project should be. If I feel the least bit uninspired, I just talk to my son and he puts me on course again. Clients’ requests offer inspiration, too. When striving to bring someone’s idea to fruition, I’m encouraged in new directions.

Would you share a color recipe with us?
I would gladly share a recipe if I had one. I tend to just start mixing colors for each project, I’ve never written anything down. I’m my own worst enemy that way, sometimes I want a color again and have to stumble around until I get it right.

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Read about Michele’s creative process and inspirations on her blog.

Have you read?

Etsy Feature – Pottery Travel Mug Template Set (3 Pieces)

There’s something so satisfying about a handmade travel mug. It’s practical, stylish, and makes your daily coffee or tea ritual feel that little bit more special. With this set of 3 pottery travel mug templates, you can create your own ceramic mugs that not only look professional but also make thoughtful, personal gifts.

What’s Included

This set comes with three different templates for slab-building your own travel mugs. Each template has slightly different proportions, giving you variety in size and style. That way you can experiment until you find the perfect fit for your hand—or make a matching set for family and friends.

Why These Templates Are Worth It

  • Reusable & Reliable: Print and trace them as many times as you want.

  • Practical Design: The angled opening and lid slot make them comfortable and functional.

  • Perfect for Beginners: Templates take the guesswork out of hand-building.

  • Gift-Worthy: A handmade travel mug is a unique, eco-friendly present that anyone would appreciate.

Inspiration for Makers

  • Try a speckled clay body with a matte glaze for a modern, minimalist vibe.

  • Add underglaze designs or decals for a personalized look.

  • Make a full set of mugs in coordinating colors—perfect for a couple or family gift.

  • Pair your finished mugs with a bag of specialty coffee or tea for a beautiful handmade gift set.

Why You’ll Love It

Handmade pottery mugs have a warmth and character that no store-bought cup can compete with. Using these templates makes the process approachable, while still leaving plenty of room for your creativity to shine. And honestly? Everyone I know could use a good travel mug—so why not make one that feels personal and one-of-a-kind?

You can grab the set here: Travel Mugs Set Templates (3 Pieces) on Etsy.

This post is part of my Etsy Feature series, where I share clay tools and templates that make creating both functional and decorative pottery easier and more fun. And if you’re looking for a project that balances everyday use with handmade charm, these travel mugs might be your next go-to.