Polymer Clay

Fimo and clay tips and tutorials

Muse Blues

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Well, taking the weekend off to clay didn’t do anything to bring my muse back. It was pitiful, nothing came out right and I just couldn’t get into it. So, what did I do? I surfed around Flickr again looking for something to cheer me up.

My favorite color is blue, so when I found this great blue and crystal bracelet by Stormy Designs it really brightened up my day. I just love the way she put this together. The AB crystals really pick up on the blue shades in the polymer clay beads and twinkle of the silver findings.  She also made a necklace, cuff bracelet, and a pair of earrrings to match the bracelet. Any of these would make a wonderful Christmas presents. I love the blues bracelet

Next, I found Sally’s “I love the blues” bracelet, and I thought it was fitting to include it in today’s Muse Blues post. It fits perfectly, right? She used silver findings in this piece, along with some pretty little baby blue pearls, white pearls, and two different colors of blue crystals. The white polymer clay disk beads are hollow and a specialty of Sally’s. You can see more of them in her Etsy shop, Silvergate Studio. I received a set of them in a PCAGOE swap, so I can tell you they are very well made and you can see she takes pride in making them.

Thanks ladies, for making my day a little brighter 🙂

[tags]polymer clay, Etsy, Flickr, Stormy Designs, SilvergateStudio[/tags]

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Clay Studio Series – YouTube Video Review: What type of clay should I use?

What Type of Clay Should I Use? Comparing Three Stoneware Bodies

If there’s one question that potters—especially beginners—ask over and over again, it’s this: “What type of clay should I use?” With so many options available, from smooth white bodies to gritty, speckled stonewares, the choice can feel overwhelming. In this Clay Studio Series feature, we’re reviewing a video that takes the guesswork out by throwing, trimming, and comparing three distinct stoneware clays side by side.

Why This Video Stands Out

Instead of just talking about clay in theory, the potter works directly with three clay bodies and shows the differences in real time. You can see how each clay reacts on the wheel, how it trims when leather-hard, and what kinds of issues may arise depending on the body you choose. This hands-on comparison makes it far easier to understand than simply reading product labels.

The video also tackles a common curiosity: the pink-toned ES80 stoneware, often admired for its warm coloring. The creator points out that this clay is manufactured for reduction firing and won’t give the same results in oxidation, a detail that often gets overlooked by beginners.

Key Lessons for Beginners

  • Not All Clay is Equal: Some clay bodies are far more forgiving for new potters, while others require more experience to manage.

  • Know Your Firing Method: Certain clays, like ES80, are formulated specifically for reduction kilns. Using them in an electric oxidation kiln may leave you disappointed.

  • Texture & Plasticity Matter: Smooth clays can be easier to throw but may slump when trimming. Grittier bodies hold structure but can be harder on your hands.

  • There’s No Single “Best” Clay: Each clay has its pros and cons — the trick is matching your choice to your skill level and the project you have in mind.

Why We Recommend Watching

For beginners, choosing the right clay can mean the difference between frustration and success. This video demystifies the process by giving a clear visual comparison of three popular stoneware options. By the end, you’ll have a better idea of what qualities to look for in a clay body and which ones might fit your needs best.

For intermediate and advanced potters, the insights are still valuable. Even if you’ve been working with one clay for years, seeing how others handle could inspire you to experiment with something new.

This review proves that clay choice is less about finding a universal “best” and more about learning what works for you. Whether you want smooth, easy-to-handle clay for your first mugs or a robust, grogged body for sculptural pieces, this video is a fantastic guide to help you make a confident decision.

Watch the full video here: What Type of Clay Should I Use?