Polymer Clay

Fimo and clay tips and tutorials

Clay Studio Series: Attempting the Viral Quilt Mug

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The internet has fallen in love with the viral quilt mug trend—bright geometric patterns that look like fabric blocks stitched together on clay. In this video, the creator takes inspiration from the legendary Emma Bridgewater and shows us how to recreate this patchwork pottery look at home.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced ceramicist looking for a fresh decorating idea, this project combines foam stamping, underglaze work, and patience into a playful experiment that feels equal parts art and craft.

 

What You’ll Need

  • Stoneware or earthenware mug (pre-thrown or slab-built) 
  • Foam sheet or sponge for DIY stamp-making 
  • Underglazes in bright, contrasting colors 
  • Carving or craft knife (for cutting stamps) 
  • Brushes & sponges for applying color 
  • Clear glaze (optional for a glossy finish) 

Step-by-Step: Making a Quilt-Inspired Mug

1. Create Your Foam Stamps

Cut simple geometric shapes (squares, diamonds, circles) from foam sheets. These act like printing blocks, giving you crisp, repeatable shapes.

Tip: Keep the designs bold and simple—tiny details may blur when stamping underglaze.

2. Plan Your Quilt Pattern

Before stamping, sketch out a patchwork grid on paper or directly on the mug with a light pencil. Quilt designs thrive on symmetry and rhythm, so map your layout for best results.

3. Stamp with Underglaze

Dip each foam stamp into underglaze and press firmly onto the leatherhard mug surface. Alternate colors to create contrast, much like arranging fabric quilt blocks.

Pro Tip: Rotate and flip the stamps occasionally—quilts are all about variation!

4. Fill in Details

After the main pattern is down, use a fine brush to sharpen lines, touch up edges, or add small accents. This step makes the design feel crisp and intentional.

5. Glaze & Fire

Once the underglaze design is complete and dried, apply a clear glaze to seal and brighten the colors. Fire according to your clay and glaze instructions.

Why This Project is Worth Trying

  • Beginner-Friendly: Foam stamps are cheap and easy to make. 
  • Customizable: Change the color palette to match your kitchen or gift theme. 
  • Trendy & Shareable: Quilt mugs are exploding on Instagram and Pinterest—it’s the kind of craft that stops the scroll.

 

Next Polymer Clay Idea:

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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.