Polymer Clay

Fimo and clay tips and tutorials

DIY Pottery Tip: Make Little Glaze Sample Tags (and Save Yourself Some Regret Later!)

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If you’ve been working with pottery for a while, you’ll know the heartbreak of opening a kiln only to discover your dream glaze turned out… well, not so dreamy. Sometimes the bottle swatch just doesn’t tell the full story. That’s why I started a little tradition in my studio: every time I get a new glaze, I make a tiny clay tag and glaze it up.

It’s like a personal “glaze library” I can flip through at a glance. Trust me, it has saved me from more than a few disappointing projects. And between you and me—no, I don’t think I have too many glazes… just not enough shelves!

Here’s how you can make your own glaze samples:

What You’ll Need

  • Scrap clay (stoneware or whatever you usually work with) 
  • Small cookie cutters (hearts, circles, squares—whatever makes you happy) 
  • Needle tool or skewer for making holes 
  • Twine or wire for hanging 
  • Your chosen glazes 
  • A kiln for firing 

Step-by-Step: Glaze Sample Tags

Step 1: Roll Out Your Clay
 Use leftover bits from other projects. Roll them to about ¼ inch thickness—sturdy enough to survive handling, but not too chunky.

Step 2: Cut Shapes
 Cut out small, repeatable shapes. I love little hearts (see mine above!), but you can also use squares or rectangles for a more “library card” feel.

Step 3: Add Texture (Optional)
 Press lace, stamps, or natural textures into a few of your tags. Some glazes break beautifully over texture, so this gives you an extra peek at how the glaze behaves.

Step 4: Punch a Hole
 Use a needle tool or skewer to poke a hole near the top. This lets you hang them later on twine or wire for easy storage and viewing.

Step 5: Bisque Fire
 Dry thoroughly and bisque fire as usual.

Step 6: Glaze Time!
 Every time you open a fresh bottle of glaze, brush or dip one of your tags. I usually cover the front fully and leave a little bare clay at the back so I can see how the glaze interacts.

Step 7: Final Fire
 Fire according to your glaze’s instructions.

Display & Storage Ideas

  • On a ring: String them onto a keyring or binder ring so you can flip through like paint swatches. 
  • On twine: Hang them on a hook or pegboard in your studio—beautiful and useful. 
  • By color family: Organize your glazes into rainbow order for quick inspiration. 

Why This Works Wonders

  • You see exactly how the glaze fires on your clay body, in your kiln atmosphere. 
  • Texture vs. smooth results are visible side by side. 
  • No more guessing or relying on glossy catalogue photos. 

And honestly, making these little tags is kind of addictive. Each new glaze feels like adding a new charm to my pottery bracelet of colors.

 

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.