Polymer Clay

Fimo and clay tips and tutorials

Making Clay Leaf Bowls

by

fall-leaves

I’ve dabbled in ceramic and air dry clays and I’ve done polymer clay as my day job for years now. Apart from making canes and beads, my favourite item to build is bowls. Little bowls, great soup bowls (from ceramic clay in this case), little trinket dishes from every type of material.

These autumn themed leaf bowls appeal to that bit of me: the poster discusses making the dishes and processing in a kiln but also trying these with air dry clay. They used acrylic clay and varnish for the colouring. You could complete the same piece with polymer clay and either use paint for the veining or mica powders. Cure your leaf shape on a slightly curved oven safe dish such as a large glass bowl and voila, polymer clay leaf bowls. Just think how lovely little dishes with wrapped candies would be for your Thanksgiving decor.

Looking for air-drying clay? We highly recommend Das Air dry clay, we have been using this product for over 30 years. Check out their Das White Air drying clay and their Terracotta Air drying clay version for a natural pottery feel. For larger crafts we recommend buying your air drying clay in bulk

Comments

  3. Hi!

    The post is more illustrative / giving ideas but what I would do would be: roll out a sheet or slab, fairly thick. Use a cookie cutter or actual leaf the correct size and cut out the clay. Trace the veins on (or use the leaf to press them in). Cure the cut out piece on a curved shape if you do this with polymer clay.

    If you do this with air dry or ceramic clay let them dry in the inside of a paper bowl or one you can check regularly to make sure the clay doesn’t stick to the bowl as it dries.

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.