Polymer Clay

Fimo and clay tips and tutorials

Doll-making Tips

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dollmaking.JPGA few random doll-making tips:

1. Study human proportions; hands, feet and heads are the most common parts to have either too large or too small.

2. Use oil paint mixed in with liquid polymer clay for facial features.

3. Have a piece of scrap clay to rub between your hands, fingers and on your work surface to pick up any stray dust or hair before you start each session and often while you are working.

4. You can paint over the polymer clay completely if you want a painterly or matte effect to your doll. 

5. Add a rosy glow to the checks with a little blush on a q-tip. (I don’t know about you, but I seem to have a collection of blush that I no longer use.)

6. Study sculpture, art history and traditional doll-making books for information on sculpting the features of your doll.

7. Bookmark this page filled with the mother-load of online doll-making techniques.

8. Have fun and don’t worry about creating something that is perfect.  Enjoy the imperfections, from now you can call them personality!

Have you read?

Etsy Feature – DIY Face Planter Pottery Template

Quirky, fun, and full of personality—this DIY Face Planter Pottery Template is the kind of project that makes everyone smile. Planters are already a favorite for potters because they’re so versatile, but when you add a playful face into the mix? You’ve got a conversation starter, a gift idea, and a cheerful addition to your home all in one.

What It Is

This template guides you step-by-step in slab-building a face-shaped planter. You’ll get the form sorted out easily, leaving all the creativity in the decorating stage—think glasses, freckles, funny noses, bright lips, or even exaggerated cartoon features. It’s essentially a blank canvas with character built right in.

Why It’s Fun and Functional

  • Customizable: Each planter can be as unique as the person making it—no two faces will ever be the same. 
  • Beginner-Friendly: Templates take away the guesswork, letting you focus on the fun. 
  • Gift-Worthy: Perfect as a handmade present for plant lovers or anyone who loves whimsical décor. 
  • Practical: A planter you’ll actually use, not just display. 

Creative Ideas for Your Planter

  • Add bright glazes to create bold personalities. 
  • Use matte neutrals for a more modern, sculptural look. 
  • Give each face a “hairstyle” with trailing plants like string of pearls, ferns, or succulents. 
  • Try a family set—different faces for different family members or moods. 

Why You’ll Love This Project

This planter template is more than just pottery—it’s playful art. The finished piece brings life and laughter into any space, and because you can customize it endlessly, it’s the kind of project you’ll want to make again and again.

You can find it here: DIY Face Planter Pottery Template on Etsy.

This post is part of my Etsy Feature series, where I highlight clay templates, tools, and creative projects that make pottery fun, approachable, and full of charm. This one is especially delightful because it gives you permission to play and be silly with your clay.

13 DIY Hanging Planters You Can Make At Home [Home and Garden]

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