Polymer Clay

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Lindly Haunani – Artist Spotlight

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lhaunani4-copy.JPGPolymer clay pioneer Lindly Haunani has been teaching across the country for over 10 years, exploring the endless possibilities of this versatile medium.  A founding member of the National Polymer Clay Guild, Lindly’s work has recently appeared in Ornament magazine and on the cover of the Crafts Report. I want to thank Lindly for taking time out of her busy schedule to share a little bit about her creative process.

What was your first polymer clay project?

My very first polymer clay project was a watermelon cane brooch. I was inspired by a brooch I had purchased at The National History Museum that has been made by CityzenCane ( Steven Ford and David Forlano). After closer inspection of their piece, I guessed that they were using a pasta machine to roll their sheets of color blends and then stack them. I bought a few packages of FIMO at a local doll house store and “borrowed” my Atlas pasta machine from my kitchen where I had been making layered pastas using fresh herbs.

In 1988 there was little information available on polymer clay, so when I saw that Kathleen Dustin was offering a polymer clay bead making class at the Art League School at the Torpedo Factory in Alexandria, Virginia I signed up. Initially I didn’t want to learn how to make beads and was more interested in making sheets of flat surface designs…. after taking her workshop I made over 1000 beads in a couple of weeks!

Besides a pasta machine, what polymer clay tool can’t you live without?

A very sharp, honed Thomas Scientific tissue blade. I have yet to find another blade that holds an edge so well, bends handily and can be resharpened.  Polymerclayexpress.com

What inspires your polymer clay creations?

Everything, especially food. Many of my “best” ideas have come up when I am exploring options by making multiple versions of a project that I am currently working on. There are times when I will make something say fifty times, walk away and then return with dozens of ideas that elaborate on the same theme. lhaunani2-copy.JPG

Would you share a color recipe with us?

My basic color palette uses Cadmium Yellow, Fuchsia red and Ultramarine blue.  One of my all time favorite color mixes is 1 part Fuchsia red, 1 part neon pink, 1 part white and 4 parts Ultramarine. Saturated blue-violet makes my heart sing, but the color I find myself mixing the most is a yellow green which is 7 parts cadmium yellow, 1 part Ultramarine with a small smidgen of Fuchsia.

Visit Lindly’s website and blog for more inspiration and information on her work.  Lindly’s blog is new, but already brimming with good food for thought, definitely one to bookmark!

[tags]polymer clay, crafts, artists, lindly haunani[/tags]

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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.

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