Polymer Clay

Fimo and clay tips and tutorials

Basic Clay Storage

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Clay in Boxes

Somewhere along the line, you may begin to accumulate a lot of Fimo clay. Since I no longer live in the city I tend to stock up when I luck out and get to visit a Michaels. Or I order scads online. Which means I have lots of lovely, unopened 2oz and 1lb blocks of clay. These days, they live in clear plastic shoeboxes in my studio so that I can get a quick glance at my Premo Yellows or my Fimo Effects. They used to live in a larger box but they’d mix up. This way they’re neat, even if not all lined up by stock number as my partner would like. I got these shoe boxes at the local hardware store.

I found that I’m not alone in liking clear boxes for storing basic elements – Alice Stroppel talks about some great boxes she found for storing her projects.

Note: This is how I store my new, not opened clay. These specific boxes are not compatible with raw clay so I store my opened packages in zipper bags or in other types of compatible plastic boxes.

Comments

  1. Elaine, thanks for the link to my post about plastic boxes. I have to tell you I just bought another larger photo box like that one and I just love them. If fact I’m going to a retreat and have shipped a box off ahead of time with several of the individual boxes backed with preconditioned clay and tools. Once I get there everything will be nice and neat. Okay maybe not neat because we all know what happens to our clay spaces once we get started. But very nice indeed.

    Alice

Have you read?

Etsy Feature – DIY Face Planter Pottery Template

Quirky, fun, and full of personality—this DIY Face Planter Pottery Template is the kind of project that makes everyone smile. Planters are already a favorite for potters because they’re so versatile, but when you add a playful face into the mix? You’ve got a conversation starter, a gift idea, and a cheerful addition to your home all in one.

What It Is

This template guides you step-by-step in slab-building a face-shaped planter. You’ll get the form sorted out easily, leaving all the creativity in the decorating stage—think glasses, freckles, funny noses, bright lips, or even exaggerated cartoon features. It’s essentially a blank canvas with character built right in.

Why It’s Fun and Functional

  • Customizable: Each planter can be as unique as the person making it—no two faces will ever be the same. 
  • Beginner-Friendly: Templates take away the guesswork, letting you focus on the fun. 
  • Gift-Worthy: Perfect as a handmade present for plant lovers or anyone who loves whimsical décor. 
  • Practical: A planter you’ll actually use, not just display. 

Creative Ideas for Your Planter

  • Add bright glazes to create bold personalities. 
  • Use matte neutrals for a more modern, sculptural look. 
  • Give each face a “hairstyle” with trailing plants like string of pearls, ferns, or succulents. 
  • Try a family set—different faces for different family members or moods. 

Why You’ll Love This Project

This planter template is more than just pottery—it’s playful art. The finished piece brings life and laughter into any space, and because you can customize it endlessly, it’s the kind of project you’ll want to make again and again.

You can find it here: DIY Face Planter Pottery Template on Etsy.

This post is part of my Etsy Feature series, where I highlight clay templates, tools, and creative projects that make pottery fun, approachable, and full of charm. This one is especially delightful because it gives you permission to play and be silly with your clay.

13 DIY Hanging Planters You Can Make At Home [Home and Garden]

12 Plants To Put In Your Bedroom To Help You Sleep [Bath and Body]