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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Etsy Feature – City Street Pottery Roller with Handle

There’s something magical about pottery tools that tell a story, and this City Street Pottery Roller does just that. Instead of a simple repeating texture, this roller creates a charming row of houses, windows, and rooftops—instantly transforming a slab of clay into a whimsical little street scene.

What It Is

This Etsy listing features a large wooden roller with a sturdy handle, designed to press detailed cityscape patterns into clay. The impression is wide enough to create a continuous border, so you can roll across a slab and build an entire “town” in just a few passes.

It works beautifully on:

  • Pottery clay and ceramic slabs. 
  • Polymer clay for smaller-scale projects. 
  • Fondant and cookie dough for bakers who love edible art. 

Why It’s Special

  • Detailed & Unique: Each building has character, with intricate windows, doors, and trees in between. 
  • Storytelling Through Clay: Adds instant personality to mugs, trays, or tiles. 
  • Easy to Use: The handle gives you good pressure and control, so your impressions stay crisp. 
  • Versatile Applications: Perfect for both functional pottery and decorative art. 

Inspiration Ideas

  • Roll across a slab to make storybook-inspired trays or platters. 
  • Use as a border on mugs or vases for a cozy, handmade vibe. 
  • Cut sections into tiles to create a miniature clay city. 
  • Highlight the details with underglaze washes or oxide stains so the windows and rooftops pop. 

Why Makers Will Love It

Tools like this City Street Roller encourage playfulness in the studio. Instead of just adding texture, you’re adding narrative—each impression looks like a scene from a quaint European street. It’s perfect for potters who want their work to feel warm, nostalgic, and one-of-a-kind.

You can find it here: City Street Pottery Roller with Handle on Etsy.

This post is part of my Etsy Feature series, where I highlight tools and treasures that spark creativity for clay and pottery lovers. And honestly? This roller might just be the most charming one yet—it makes every project feel like it belongs in a little handmade village.