Polymer Clay

Fimo and clay tips and tutorials

Lindly Haunani – Artist Spotlight

by

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]

Comments

Have you read?

How to Make Beautiful Stamped Clay Pots with Air Dry Clay

If you’ve ever wanted to dip your toes into clay crafts without the fuss of a kiln, air dry clay is your new best friend. It’s affordable, easy to work with, and dries beautifully into something that looks much fancier than it really is. These DIY stamped clay pots are the perfect weekend project. They’re practical, pretty, and make wonderful handmade gifts. Think pen holders, plant pots, or even a little bathroom organizer for makeup brushes.

Why You’ll Love This Project

  • No kiln or oven required – just let the clay dry naturally.

  • Endless design possibilities with stamps, lace, or texture mats.

  • A chic way to organize your desk, vanity, or craft room.

  • Great gift idea (fill with treats, pens, or a little succulent).

Supplies You’ll Need

  • Air-dry clay (white or terracotta works best)

  • Rolling pin (or a smooth glass bottle)

  • Stamps, lace, or textured rolling pins for designs

  • Craft knife or clay cutter

  • Water and a small paintbrush (for smoothing seams)

  • Cylinder form (a glass, tin can, or jar to shape the pot)

  • Sandpaper (fine grit, for finishing)

  • Optional: acrylic paints or clear sealant

Step-by-Step Tutorial

Step 1: Roll Out the Clay

Sprinkle a little cornstarch on your surface so the clay doesn’t stick. Roll your clay into a flat slab about ¼ inch thick. Keep it even so your pot doesn’t dry lopsided.

Step 2: Add the Texture

Now for the fun part! Press your stamp, lace, or textured roller firmly into the clay. Don’t worry about perfection—slight variations give it that handmade charm.

Step 3: Cut Your Rectangle

Measure your cylinder (jar, can, or glass) and cut a rectangle of clay that will wrap all the way around it. Cut out a circle of clay for the base.

Step 4: Build the Pot

Wrap the clay rectangle around your form and gently press the seam together. Use a little water and a paintbrush to smooth it out. Attach the circular base with the same water “glue” method, blending the edges for strength.

Step 5: Smooth & Shape

Run damp fingers along the rim and seams to soften rough edges. This is where your pot starts looking polished.

Step 6: Drying Time

Let your pot air dry for 24–48 hours (depending on the clay brand and thickness). Don’t rush this step—if the clay dries too quickly, it can crack.

Step 7: Sand & Finish

Once dry, lightly sand any rough spots. You can leave it raw white for a chic, minimal look, or paint/seal it with acrylic paints and clear varnish for extra durability.

Creative Ideas for Stamped Clay Pots

  • Boho Vibes: Use lace doilies for a soft, romantic texture.

  • Rustic Look: Try a wooden stamp or burlap fabric pressed into the clay.

  • Modern Minimalist: Leave the pot smooth and paint it matte black or terracotta.

  • Giftable Touch: Wrap with twine and tuck in a small succulent.

Tips

  • Keep unused clay wrapped tightly in plastic so it doesn’t dry out.

  • If cracks appear, fill with a little clay slip (clay mixed with water).

  • Don’t make your pots too tall or thin—the clay is stronger in compact shapes.

These DIY air dry clay pots prove that you don’t need a pottery wheel to create beautiful handmade pieces. Whether you use them for storage, décor, or gifting, each one turns out unique—just like handmade should be.