Polymer Clay

Fimo and clay tips and tutorials

August Polymer Cafe!

by

polymer_cafe_31_t The August issue of Polymer Cafe has arrived, with lots of treats to inspire and instruct.  The “Random Layers Pendants” by Christi Uliczny featured on the cover show a fantastic way to use an assortment of both translucent and opaque canes.

If you’re interested in expanding your repertoire to include Precious Metal Clay, the “Fish Frenzy” pendant by Shirley Rufener would be an excellent place to start.

This was an excellent issue for learning new skills, as the “Steampunk Business Card Case” by Eugena Topina also includes clever instructions for working with small amounts of resin as a finish on polymer clay.  Also in the steampunk genre was the “Just the Gears” article by Lisa Heller.  The idea of being able to make my own custom polymer clay “gears” for any Steampunk projects is tickling my muse already.

Other projects include an elegant “Altered Jewelry Box” by Michelle Herren, a stately ” Mayan Necklace” by Jacqueline Josten, and cute as can be “Play-on-Words Pots” by Laura J. Schiller.

Congratulations go out to the winners of the “Touchy Feely Challenge” winners, Cheryl Watt for her “Leafy Leah,” Reanna Bower for her “Twysted Roots,” Jennifer Miller for her “Ocean Tides,” and Cathy Clark for her “Here, Fishy Fishy.”  And as always, the Reader’s Gallery is full of eye candy and inspiration!

[tags]polymer cafe august issue[/tags]

Next Polymer Clay Idea:

Have you read?

DIY Pottery Clay Doily Platter with Pink Speckled Glaze

There’s something special about combining old traditions with modern design. I’ve always adored the stack of vintage doilies handed down from my grandmother, but since lace doesn’t exactly suit my home aesthetic, I started experimenting with ways to repurpose their beautiful patterns in clay. That’s how I ended up creating this doily pottery platter—a simple slab of clay transformed into a textured serving dish with the help of lace, white clay, and a soft pink speckled glaze.

The result is a handmade ceramic platter that looks both timeless and contemporary, perfect for styling on a coffee table, serving treats, or simply displaying as a piece of art.

Materials You’ll Need

  • White pottery clay (stoneware or porcelain recommended)

  • Rolling pin

  • Crochet doily (cotton lace works best)

  • Sharp knife or clay cutter

  • Oval or rectangular template (a cutting board, tray, or paper template works well)

  • Sponge and water

  • Plastic wrap

  • Kiln access (or a local pottery studio firing service)

  • White glaze

  • Pink speckled glaze (or white glaze with pink oxide/pigment speckles)

Step-by-Step Tutorial

Step 1: Roll Out the Clay

Roll your clay slab to about 1/4 inch thick. Keep it even and wide enough to cut an oval platter shape.

Step 2: Press the Doily

Lay your crochet doily flat across the clay. Use the rolling pin to firmly press the pattern into the surface. Lift it carefully to reveal the intricate lace design imprinted into the clay.

Tip: Dust the doily lightly with cornstarch if it tends to stick.

Step 3: Cut the Platter Shape

Using your knife and a template, cut around the clay to form an oval platter shape. Smooth the edges with your fingers or a damp sponge.

Step 4: Lift and Shape the Platter

For a slightly raised platter, drape the clay gently over a shallow mold (like a plate or tray lined with plastic wrap). If you prefer a flat serving dish, leave it as-is on your board.

Step 5: Let It Dry

Allow the platter to dry until leather-hard. Refine the edges with a sponge, smoothing away any rough spots. Once it reaches bone dry, it’s ready for bisque firing.

Step 6: Glaze and Fire

After the first firing, apply a coat of white glaze over the entire platter. Then lightly layer on a pink speckled glaze (you can also achieve this by flicking pink oxide pigment into a clear glaze). The pink speckles add a playful, modern twist while still allowing the lace pattern to shine through. Fire again according to your glaze instructions.

Styling Your Finished Platter

This platter is both practical and beautiful. You can:

  • Use it as a serving dish for cakes, cookies, or fruit.

  • Style it on a coffee table with candles or trinkets.

  • Display it as wall art by adding a plate hanger.

  • Gift it as a keepsake—perfect for Mother’s Day, weddings, or housewarmings.

Every platter I make carries the memory of my grandmother’s doilies, but in a form that feels modern and at home with my style. The pink speckled glaze gives it a playful softness, while the lace impression keeps that touch of handmade tradition alive. It’s proof that old textiles can inspire something completely fresh when reimagined in clay.