Polymer Clay

Fimo and clay tips and tutorials

Inspiration vs. Copying

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layering.JPGJust a quick and friendly reminder that I feel needs to be said today. The images shown on here from myself and other artists are not for you to copy. Unless a project is posted with a link to a tutorial or the instructions, I am providing the images for your inspiration and to get your gears turning.

I’m not debating using techniques or giving credit to the original artists. I’m talking about artists who have a visual language, they use polymer clay to express their artistic vision and story. As a fan or admirer and fellow creator we have no business making something that looks like their work. Ever.

I’m talking about intent here. Similar projects crop up all the time, I know there is nothing under the sun. But if we see someone’s creation online and think, “Wow I want to make one. I bet they did it like and this.” Go for it, create it Then put it somewhere in the studio for inspiration. Our version should NOT be shown on the internet. It shouldn’t be shown as our artwork. Because it’s not. We copied, we know did, it’s fine. I hope we learned something along the way and that it inspired us to try something else and move in a new direction.

As an artist, I’m never flattered when someone copies me. I’m not threatened either. I’m disappointed. Creativity isn’t a pie that we need snatch up the slices before they run out. Creativity is an ocean and there is no end to the new things we can create. Dive deep. Tell your own story, make something personal, create your own visual language to express yourself. The world is waiting to hear from you.

Learn from others, but don’t step on their toes while you are standing at their work bench.

(I’m not directing this at anyone, it’s just a reminder and some encouragement to trust your own creativity.)

Comments

  1. Nicely said! Kim Cavender has written about how some people take classes and turn around and teach them.I’ve wached people demonstrate techniques on youtube that were originated by others. I don’t know how someone could feel good about themselves when they do these things. Art is a personal expression and the true beauty of art is when that individualism is expressed. My hope is that more people feel the joy of expressing their own unique vision.
    Debbie Tlach a.k.a. Artistgirl

  2. Yes Debbie this has been a hottly dedated topic online over the last year or so.

    I felt like I needed to put out this reminder. I didn’t want there to be any confusion since this blog is geared to both those who are just starting out, with sharing techinques and projects that I find online and to inspire those who are moving in their own direction.

    I don’t want to stiffle anyone’s creativity and I strongly believe there is a difference between techniques and someone’s personal style. As creators we need to make sure we use techinques to express our own style.

    Happy Creating!

  4. I really think this is an issue that spans across all situations.some folks get so caught up in how they want a piece to turn out that they miss out on an opportunity to communicate from the heart. When i think of a deeper theme for a project, the depth is easier to achieve…smudges and fingerprints may even authenticate it’s character more effectively than a perfectly executed skinner blend/mokume gane/metal leaf rendition of what we thought looked dope. Art is a messenger,saying something real in it helps everyone out. Jam on!

Have you read?

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.