Polymer Clay

Fimo and clay tips and tutorials

DIY How To Make Your Own Silicone Molds

by

Druck

In polymer clay, molds and textures are fabulous tools to have. Some of us (ahem, me) spend a lot of time and money collecting different clay molds to use on our work.

Barbara, from Buntwerkstatt, shares a tutorial for making silicone molds using hardware store silicone and talcum powder.

In the tutorial, she comments this should be done outside because the silicone will stink until it’s cured. I also advise doing this with unscented powder rather than baby powder.  This method can use a lot of talcum powder and it smells for ages.

You might want to do a test nub of this to see how long YOUR mix will take to set up. Either do a small glob or a very small mold to test the process. Then you’ll be more confident when you go to mold and cast your final object.

Check out our own tutorial for making silicone molds here.

And here is my own version of the silicon one too.

Making your own molds for clay and crafts is a fun and easy way to create customized shapes and designs. One of the best materials to use for making molds is silicon, as it is flexible, durable, and easy to work with. Here’s a simple tutorial on how to make your own molds using silicon:

  1. Choose your mold shape: The first step is to decide on the shape of your mold. You can use just about any object as a mold, as long as it is small enough to fit in your silicon. Some ideas might include a toy, a small figurine, a seashell, or a coin.
  2. Prepare your object: Before you begin, make sure your object is clean and dry. If it is particularly smooth or shiny, you may want to rough it up a bit to help the silicon stick to it.
  3. Mix your silicon: Follow the instructions on your silicon package to mix the correct amount of silicon. Be sure to mix it thoroughly, as any lumps or bumps will show up in your finished mold.
  4. Pour the silicon: Carefully pour the mixed silicon over your object, making sure to cover it completely. You may want to use a small spatula or tool to help smooth out the surface of the silicon.
  5. Let the silicon cure: Allow the silicon to cure according to the instructions on the package. This will usually take several hours, or even overnight.
  6. Remove the mold: Once the silicon has cured, gently remove your object from the mold. You should now have a flexible silicon mold that you can use to create custom shapes and designs with clay or other materials.

I hope these instructions are helpful as you get started on your own silicon molds! Happy crafting!

 

Comments

  2. When I tried this a few years ago, I used a chalk powder from the garage and it worked fine. You could try cornstarch! My only concern is the fact that it’s organic but I imagine it would “cure” in the silicone.

  17. I haven’t noticed any change in the ones I’ve made with a version of this. They’re about two years old and not heavily used. I did immediately have some dry / didn’t mix great areas where I picked bits of the mold off but no change later.

  19. That’s a good question. Anything with over hang you’ll want a really super flexible silicone mold. So you’ll need to do some experimenting to get the right texture. If you’re casting a live succulent (rather than an inanimate object) it may be a challenge!

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.