Polymer Clay

Fimo and clay tips and tutorials

Clayers Who Blog

by

Here’s a little mix up of what I often put out on Sundays about the clay-verse. This Sunday, instead, I’ll give a shout out to some of the clay related blogs I enjoy:

  • PolymerClayDaily goes without saying. Visit Cynthia Tinapple each day for some of the best in polymer clay art
  • Carol Simmons blogs about many clay related items but her grasp of colour is amazing!
  • Maggie Maggio is another colour expert and not to be missed.
  • Lindly Haunani rounds out the list
  • Lisa Pavelka is currently doing a “365 Days of Lip Service” project on her blog so each day is a neat, clay related treat
  • CraftyGoat is the work of Angela Mabray and is chock full of good projects, reviews and absolute tons of hints and tips
  • Alice Stroppel is one of those wonderfully creative and genuinely nice people who also blogs regularly! Magic, I tell you
  • Lisa Clarke is a fellow clayer but she also indulges in her share of photography, geekery and fibre arts

Some of the friends I’ve met during my adventures learning about my art business, clay related artwork and the insanity that goes with it:

  • Tonja Lederman makes beautiful art, sells sweet supplies and writes tutorials
  • Iris Mishly is an Israeli artist who seems almost impossibly prolific to me! Scads of tutorials, beautiful work and blogs all the time
  • Cindy Lietz is a fellow Canadian clayer who runs a commercial, educational blog for clayers. There are tons of tidbits available for gleaning even if you’re not ready to hop all the way in
  • Cat Therien makes fabulous… well, pretty much everything. Canes and nail art are the main focus but I haven’t really seen her go wrong!

Comments

  2. Thank you Elaine for considering me one of your friends, I feel the same way. 🙂 I have very much enjoyed all that you have contributed to the claying community over all these years. Cheers to many more wonderful years in this crazy clay business!

Have you read?

How to Make Beautiful Stamped Clay Pots with Air Dry Clay

If you’ve ever wanted to dip your toes into clay crafts without the fuss of a kiln, air dry clay is your new best friend. It’s affordable, easy to work with, and dries beautifully into something that looks much fancier than it really is. These DIY stamped clay pots are the perfect weekend project. They’re practical, pretty, and make wonderful handmade gifts. Think pen holders, plant pots, or even a little bathroom organizer for makeup brushes.

Why You’ll Love This Project

  • No kiln or oven required – just let the clay dry naturally.

  • Endless design possibilities with stamps, lace, or texture mats.

  • A chic way to organize your desk, vanity, or craft room.

  • Great gift idea (fill with treats, pens, or a little succulent).

Supplies You’ll Need

  • Air-dry clay (white or terracotta works best)

  • Rolling pin (or a smooth glass bottle)

  • Stamps, lace, or textured rolling pins for designs

  • Craft knife or clay cutter

  • Water and a small paintbrush (for smoothing seams)

  • Cylinder form (a glass, tin can, or jar to shape the pot)

  • Sandpaper (fine grit, for finishing)

  • Optional: acrylic paints or clear sealant

Step-by-Step Tutorial

Step 1: Roll Out the Clay

Sprinkle a little cornstarch on your surface so the clay doesn’t stick. Roll your clay into a flat slab about ¼ inch thick. Keep it even so your pot doesn’t dry lopsided.

Step 2: Add the Texture

Now for the fun part! Press your stamp, lace, or textured roller firmly into the clay. Don’t worry about perfection—slight variations give it that handmade charm.

Step 3: Cut Your Rectangle

Measure your cylinder (jar, can, or glass) and cut a rectangle of clay that will wrap all the way around it. Cut out a circle of clay for the base.

Step 4: Build the Pot

Wrap the clay rectangle around your form and gently press the seam together. Use a little water and a paintbrush to smooth it out. Attach the circular base with the same water “glue” method, blending the edges for strength.

Step 5: Smooth & Shape

Run damp fingers along the rim and seams to soften rough edges. This is where your pot starts looking polished.

Step 6: Drying Time

Let your pot air dry for 24–48 hours (depending on the clay brand and thickness). Don’t rush this step—if the clay dries too quickly, it can crack.

Step 7: Sand & Finish

Once dry, lightly sand any rough spots. You can leave it raw white for a chic, minimal look, or paint/seal it with acrylic paints and clear varnish for extra durability.

Creative Ideas for Stamped Clay Pots

  • Boho Vibes: Use lace doilies for a soft, romantic texture.

  • Rustic Look: Try a wooden stamp or burlap fabric pressed into the clay.

  • Modern Minimalist: Leave the pot smooth and paint it matte black or terracotta.

  • Giftable Touch: Wrap with twine and tuck in a small succulent.

Tips

  • Keep unused clay wrapped tightly in plastic so it doesn’t dry out.

  • If cracks appear, fill with a little clay slip (clay mixed with water).

  • Don’t make your pots too tall or thin—the clay is stronger in compact shapes.

These DIY air dry clay pots prove that you don’t need a pottery wheel to create beautiful handmade pieces. Whether you use them for storage, décor, or gifting, each one turns out unique—just like handmade should be.