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

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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 – City Street Pottery Roller with Handle

There’s something magical about pottery tools that tell a story, and this City Street Pottery Roller does just that. Instead of a simple repeating texture, this roller creates a charming row of houses, windows, and rooftops—instantly transforming a slab of clay into a whimsical little street scene.

What It Is

This Etsy listing features a large wooden roller with a sturdy handle, designed to press detailed cityscape patterns into clay. The impression is wide enough to create a continuous border, so you can roll across a slab and build an entire “town” in just a few passes.

It works beautifully on:

  • Pottery clay and ceramic slabs. 
  • Polymer clay for smaller-scale projects. 
  • Fondant and cookie dough for bakers who love edible art. 

Why It’s Special

  • Detailed & Unique: Each building has character, with intricate windows, doors, and trees in between. 
  • Storytelling Through Clay: Adds instant personality to mugs, trays, or tiles. 
  • Easy to Use: The handle gives you good pressure and control, so your impressions stay crisp. 
  • Versatile Applications: Perfect for both functional pottery and decorative art. 

Inspiration Ideas

  • Roll across a slab to make storybook-inspired trays or platters. 
  • Use as a border on mugs or vases for a cozy, handmade vibe. 
  • Cut sections into tiles to create a miniature clay city. 
  • Highlight the details with underglaze washes or oxide stains so the windows and rooftops pop. 

Why Makers Will Love It

Tools like this City Street Roller encourage playfulness in the studio. Instead of just adding texture, you’re adding narrative—each impression looks like a scene from a quaint European street. It’s perfect for potters who want their work to feel warm, nostalgic, and one-of-a-kind.

You can find it here: City Street Pottery Roller with Handle on Etsy.

This post is part of my Etsy Feature series, where I highlight tools and treasures that spark creativity for clay and pottery lovers. And honestly? This roller might just be the most charming one yet—it makes every project feel like it belongs in a little handmade village.