Polymer Clay

Fimo and clay tips and tutorials

Clay Studio Series – YouTube Video Review How to Throw a Christmas Tree on the Wheel

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If you’ve been looking for a festive pottery project, this video is the perfect holiday inspiration. Calder from Calder’s Ceramics demonstrates how to throw a ceramic Christmas tree on the wheel, along with four creative decorating techniques to make each one unique. The tutorial finishes with glazing and firing, giving viewers the full process from start to shiny holiday finish.

The video begins with Calder centering and throwing a conical tree form on the wheel — simple in shape, yet full of potential. What makes this video especially fun is the variety of decorating options shown: from carving and hole-cutting for light displays to playful surface treatments that bring each tree to life.

He also shares practical firing details:

  • Bisque firing at 1020°C (cone 06) 
  • Glaze firing at 1220°C (cone 6) 

The final glazed trees are shown at the end, making it clear how glaze choices dramatically affect the outcome.

What We Loved

  • Festive Creativity: Four distinct decorating methods mean no two trees will ever look alike. 
  • Clear Instructions: Calder breaks down the process in approachable steps that beginners can follow. 
  • Practical Tips: From tool suggestions to glaze combinations, everything is well explained. 
  • Holiday Ready: These trees make beautiful seasonal decorations or handmade gifts. 

Key Takeaways

  • Christmas tree forms are simple but versatile — a great starting project for both beginners and experienced potters. 
  • Decoration choices (like hole cutting) can transform the piece into a functional holiday lantern. 
  • Glazing is where the magic happens — the same form can look entirely different with creative glaze combos. 

This video is ideal for potters who want a holiday-themed project that’s fun, approachable, and gift-worthy. It’s also a great introduction to throwing conical forms and experimenting with surface decoration. Whether you’re making one tree or a whole forest, Calder’s tutorial will leave you inspired to bring a little handmade cheer to the season.

 Watch the full video here: Throwing and Decorating a Christmas Tree on the Wheel

 

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DIY Clay Flower Frog Tutorial – A Handmade Tool for Arranging Blooms

If you’ve ever struggled to get your flowers to stand just right in a vase, let me introduce you to one of the most charming old-fashioned tools around: the flower frog. Traditionally made from metal or glass, a flower frog is simply a base with holes that keeps stems in place so you can create balanced, natural arrangements without fussing. Today, we’re giving this vintage idea a modern twist by making a clay flower frog with our own hands.

This project is wonderfully simple, yet it creates something you’ll use again and again – especially if you love bringing fresh blooms inside from the garden. It’s also a fantastic beginner-friendly clay project that gives you a chance to practice shaping and smoothing without needing advanced pottery skills.

Materials You’ll Need

  • Pottery clay (stoneware or earthenware works well; you can also use air-dry clay for a decorative-only version)

  • A rolling pin or clay roller

  • A needle tool or skewer

  • A small round cookie cutter or cup for shaping

  • Sponge and water for smoothing

  • Optional: glaze in your favorite color (if kiln-firing) or acrylic paint/sealer for air-dry clay

Step-by-Step Tutorial

Step 1: Prepare Your Clay

Wedge your clay (fancy potter’s word for kneading out the air bubbles) until smooth. Roll it out to about 1 inch thick – thick enough that your holes won’t weaken the structure.

Step 2: Cut the Base Shape

Using a cookie cutter, cup, or template, cut out a circle or oval about 3–4 inches across. This will form the base of your flower frog. Smooth the edges with a damp sponge.

Step 3: Add the Holes

Use a skewer, chopstick, or needle tool to pierce holes across the surface. Space them evenly but not too close to the edges. Aim for around 6–10 holes, depending on the size of your frog. Make sure the holes go all the way through so stems can slide in easily.

Step 4: Refine and Smooth

Dip your tool in water and smooth around each hole to prevent cracking later. Take your time here—neat holes are what make your frog functional and pretty.

Step 5: Let It Dry

  • For kiln clay: Allow to dry until bone dry, then bisque fire. Apply glaze of choice and fire again.

  • For air-dry clay: Let it cure completely according to the package instructions, usually 24–48 hours.

Step 6: Finish and Seal

  • If you’re kiln-firing, this is where you’ll add that glossy glaze – think celadon green, soft blue, or speckled neutrals.

  • If you’re using air-dry clay, paint with acrylics and add a clear sealer to protect it from water.

Using Your Clay Flower Frog

Place your finished frog at the bottom of a shallow bowl or vase, add water, and start threading flower stems through the holes. The frog will hold them upright and let you create that lush, organic look without fuss. For a more rustic style, leave the clay unglazed (just make sure it’s still sealed if you’ll be adding water).

Variations to Try

  • Mini Frogs: Make smaller versions for teacups or bud vases.

  • Square or Oval Shapes: Who says flower frogs have to be round?

  • Decorative Impressions: Press lace, leaves, or stamps into the clay before making the holes for a bit of texture.

  • Stacked Frogs: Make two thinner discs and stack them together for a taller look.

Why You’ll Love This Project

Not only do you get a handmade, functional tool, but you’re also keeping alive a vintage floral tradition. These little clay flower frogs make beautiful gifts, especially paired with a thrifted vase and a bunch of fresh-picked blooms.