Polymer Clay

Fimo and clay tips and tutorials

Clay Studio Series – YouTube Video Review: Handbuilt Bird Feeder

by

For anyone who loves combining pottery with a touch of nature, this YouTube tutorial by Jana Storm is a perfect project. In this video, she shows how to create a ceramic bird feeder using nothing more than the pinching technique and stoneware clay.

What the Video Covers

Jana shapes a hollow form with an opening that works beautifully as a bird feeder. She emphasizes the simplicity of the project: no pottery wheel, no advanced tools — just your hands, clay, and a bit of patience.

Why We Love It

  • Nature-Friendly: A functional craft that welcomes birds into your garden. 
  • Beginner-Friendly: Pinching technique is approachable for first-time potters. 
  • Stylish: The organic shape and speckled clay give the piece a modern, earthy look. 
  • Customizable: Use different glazes or even add macramé yarn for hanging. 

Materials and Glazes Used

  • Speckled Stoneware Clay with 20% chamotte 
  • BOTZ Glossy White Glaze (No. 9101) 
  • Pottery Tool Starter Set 
  • Macramé yarn for hanging 

Craft Gossip’s Take

We love this project for its mix of creativity and function. It’s a relaxing handbuilding project that doubles as a practical item for your garden. Perfect as a gift for nature lovers or as a personal project that brings more life into your outdoor space.

If you’ve been looking for a clay project with a bit of charm and purpose, this bird feeder tutorial will definitely inspire you.

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]