Polymer Clay

Fimo and clay tips and tutorials

Glues and Polymer Clay

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I’m currently building up inventory for fall shows which means, at least somewhat, I’m using glues here and there. And glue and polymer clay is a pain. Some glues just don’t work. For example, I’ve had embarrassing failures with hot glue in the distant past. Sometimes my fall back glue (E6000 on cleaned surfaces) just doesn’t work one apiece in a batch of dozens.

Ginger from the Blue Bottle Tree goes over her notes, compiled from others, in her post here and they seem to reflect what I’ve found as well. It can be basically summarized as: if possible, join clay to clay with liquid clay and a good baking. Join other sturdy items to clay by baking them INTO the clay if possible – I make pins this way – or using the strongest glue you can get.

Another thing I found out was that CA or cyanoacrylate glues (superglues) make a great polish for polymer clay. In fact, it’s a better polish than glue unless you’re doing just small repairs or additions. I use CA or Gorilla Glue to fix tiny cracks since they either glue instantly or fill space as they glue. I use E6000 or Goop, on alcohol cleaned surfaces for some pieces that won’t be handled too much. And I’m working on changing more of my work to clay and mechanical hold rather than depending on glues.

What kind of glue do you prefer to use on your projects? Any horrifying failures or really great glue tricks?

Comments

  1. I, too, have a love – hate relationship with glues! Everyone swears by E6000 but I don’t! I love a quick grab glue that dries quick and clear for my craft projects. I discovered DAP RapidFuse Multi-Purpose Adhesive that’s perfect for most of my bonding needs – except fabrics! My go-to fabric glue for that is Fabri-Tac – it’s the best!

  2. one of the top clayers recommended J.B KwickWeld and it is undoubtedly strong and reliable on polymer clay. It is no longer available in the UK and the UK equivalent, equally as reliable is called ‘Power Maxed Epoxy Speed Bond

  3. I find that Superglue works best on pc to pc, but only if its a smooth flat surface. I also use it to fix metal jewellery findings, such as brooch-backs, or magnets. to pc. My other favourite glue is Weldbond, made in Canada. It is similar to PVA, dries fast and clear, and is very strong, and waterproof. Much better than epoxies.

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Air-Dry Clay Sunflower Trinket Dish Tutorial

There’s something about sunflowers that just makes a house feel happier. Maybe it’s the colour, maybe it’s the fact they’re never trying to be perfect, or maybe it’s just that they remind me of slower afternoons when the kids were little and craft projects actually stayed on the table instead of migrating all over the house. Either way, this air-dry clay sunflower trinket dish has become one of my favourite “gentle crafts” – the kind you make with a cup of tea nearby and no pressure to rush.

This is not a precision project. In fact, the slightly uneven petals and hand-shaped edges are what make it lovely. If you’ve ever avoided clay because you thought it had to look professional or kiln-fired to be worth making, this project might just change your mind. It’s simple, forgiving, and genuinely useful once it’s finished.

Air-Dry Clay Sunflower Trinket Dish Tutorial

This sunflower bowl works beautifully as a ring dish, bedside catch-all, or even a small decorative bowl on a hall table. It also makes a gorgeous handmade gift – especially for someone who appreciates things that look handmade rather than factory-perfect.

What You’ll Need

  • White air-dry clay

  • Rolling pin or glass jar

  • Craft knife or butter knife

  • Simple sunflower petal template (paper)

  • Small bowl (for shaping)

  • Toothpick or skewer

  • Acrylic paints (yellow, brown, a little white)

  • Small paintbrush

  • Clear matte or satin sealer (optional)

Step 1: Prepare the Clay

Start by kneading your air-dry clay until it’s soft and pliable. Roll it out on a smooth surface to around 5–6 mm thick. You want it thick enough to hold its shape, but not chunky.

Cut a rough circle for the base of your bowl. Don’t worry about perfect edges – you won’t see them once the petals are added.

Step 2: Cut the Sunflower Petals

Using your simple sunflower petal template, cut out enough petals to go around the edge of your base circle. Slight variations actually help the finished bowl look more natural, so don’t stress if they’re not identical.

Lightly smooth the edges with your fingers and gently pinch the tip of each petal to give it that sunflower shape.

Step 3: Attach the Petals

Lightly score the edge of your clay base and the bottom of each petal with a toothpick. Press the petals around the edge, overlapping them slightly. Use your fingers to blend the joins so everything feels connected.

This part is quite therapeutic – I usually lose track of time here.

Step 4: Add Texture

Using a toothpick or skewer, gently press fine lines into each petal to create natural-looking veins. Keep the pressure light and irregular.

For the centre of the sunflower, press small dots all over the middle area to mimic sunflower seeds. This texture really comes to life once painted.

Step 5: Shape the Bowl

Place the entire sunflower over an upside-down bowl to give it a gentle curve. Adjust the petals so they sit naturally and don’t fold in awkwardly.

Leave it to air-dry completely. This usually takes 24–48 hours depending on humidity. Turn it carefully halfway through drying so the base dries evenly.

Step 6: Paint the Sunflower

Once fully dry, paint the petals with yellow acrylic paint. I like to add a touch of white to the edges for highlights and a slightly darker yellow near the base of each petal.

Paint the centre brown, then dry-brush a little lighter brown or white over the top to bring out the texture.

Let the paint dry thoroughly.

Step 7: Seal (Optional)

If you want a bit of extra durability, seal your trinket dish with a matte or satin sealer. This is especially useful if it’s going to live near a sink or get daily use.

How to Use Your Sunflower Trinket Dish

  • Ring or jewellery dish by the sink

  • Bedside bowl for earrings and hairpins

  • Entryway catch-all for keys

  • Decorative piece on a shelf or coffee table

Air-dry clay isn’t food-safe, so keep it for trinkets rather than snacks.

This is one of those crafts that looks impressive but doesn’t require special tools, expensive materials, or artistic confidence. It’s approachable, calming, and genuinely satisfying to finish in an afternoon. The end result feels personal and warm – exactly the kind of craft I keep coming back to.

If you’re looking for an easy air-dry clay project that feels cheerful and handmade in the best way, this sunflower trinket dish is a lovely place to start.