Polymer Clay

Fimo and clay tips and tutorials

Kato color mixing recipes

by

It’s true, I’m a Kato gal. I flirted with the other polymer clays out there when I started claying, but none of them satisfied my thirst for clay like Kato did. It’s firmness makes it the best clay for my purposes. The rest of those other guys were just too soft. Okay, okay, enough of the potty talk. But it’s true, I do love Kato’s PolyClay.

When I first discovered polymer clay, I had been put out of work because of a neck surgery and was sooo tired of reruns, so I tried a new channel. Yep, that’s right it was showing “The Carol Duvall Show” and it was Donna Kato making fascinating canes. Well, I think you know the rest of the story because I’m here! Ooooh, okay, I’ll tell you anyway. I wanted to make canes.

I suppose I was just like the other newbies, I tried the clay with all the pretty colors to cane with. You all know which one I’m referring to. It’s so gooey that chewed gum would have been a better choice to cane with. It’s an honest newbie mistake, the colors are pretty and it doesn’t say gooey on the package. So, I go and research on the web , and I research on the web, you get the picture. I tried the Premo, not much better. For some reason I skipped right over poor Fimo and feel into the arms of Kato, and have never left it’s side. Now I know some of you swear by Fimo, but after Kato, nothing else will do for me.

Except! When it comes to color mixing. I’ve never took any kind of formal art classes that may have taught color theory and the like, so when it comes to this color and that color makes this color, all I know is what I learned in kindergarten. The basics. Red and blue make green, blue and yellow make purple. I’m KIDDING folks! I also know that they all make clay mud if you don’t know how to mix colors beyond the primary stage. So, I’m always on the lookout for Kato color mixing recipes everywhere I go on the web. I’ve found them all over the place and want to share them all in one place for everyone – HERE !!! If you happen to see a duplicate, please let me know by leaving a comment. My eyes started crossing as I was looking for them.

Enjoy!

[tags]polymer clay, Kato PolyClay, color mixing recipes[/tags]

Comments

  2. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOUUUUUUUUUU! I’m color mixing disabled – all I learned about color mixing I learned in kindergarten, just like you LOL. This is SO awesome.

    BIG HUG!

  4. You have totally made my day! This is just what I was looking for. I’ll share this with my Guild members. Thanks!!!!

    Karen

  5. I have a printed copy of this chart and wanted to share it with a friend. I can’t find it any more on the website and your link does not work either.

    Any ideas where it has gone?

Have you read?

Etsy Feature – Pottery Travel Mug Template Set (3 Pieces)

There’s something so satisfying about a handmade travel mug. It’s practical, stylish, and makes your daily coffee or tea ritual feel that little bit more special. With this set of 3 pottery travel mug templates, you can create your own ceramic mugs that not only look professional but also make thoughtful, personal gifts.

What’s Included

This set comes with three different templates for slab-building your own travel mugs. Each template has slightly different proportions, giving you variety in size and style. That way you can experiment until you find the perfect fit for your hand—or make a matching set for family and friends.

Why These Templates Are Worth It

  • Reusable & Reliable: Print and trace them as many times as you want.

  • Practical Design: The angled opening and lid slot make them comfortable and functional.

  • Perfect for Beginners: Templates take the guesswork out of hand-building.

  • Gift-Worthy: A handmade travel mug is a unique, eco-friendly present that anyone would appreciate.

Inspiration for Makers

  • Try a speckled clay body with a matte glaze for a modern, minimalist vibe.

  • Add underglaze designs or decals for a personalized look.

  • Make a full set of mugs in coordinating colors—perfect for a couple or family gift.

  • Pair your finished mugs with a bag of specialty coffee or tea for a beautiful handmade gift set.

Why You’ll Love It

Handmade pottery mugs have a warmth and character that no store-bought cup can compete with. Using these templates makes the process approachable, while still leaving plenty of room for your creativity to shine. And honestly? Everyone I know could use a good travel mug—so why not make one that feels personal and one-of-a-kind?

You can grab the set here: Travel Mugs Set Templates (3 Pieces) on Etsy.

This post is part of my Etsy Feature series, where I share clay tools and templates that make creating both functional and decorative pottery easier and more fun. And if you’re looking for a project that balances everyday use with handmade charm, these travel mugs might be your next go-to.