Polymer Clay

Fimo and clay tips and tutorials

New Polymer Clay Forum

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projectpolymer.jpgProject Polymer is a new place for clay enthusiast to meet up online.  You can win $25 from one of their sponsors for helping get the word out! Visit the forum here for details.

[tags]polymer clay, forums, creativity, crafts[/tags]

Comments

  2. Hey everyone, Knowing how everyone is trying to save money, I found a site that have Polymer Clay blades the Black Surgical ones of Sale at a very low cost. the site is http://www.vulcanstilts.com and I just got mine yesterday. Sharp as all get out!! Hope this helps my fellow polymer clay pals save money.

  3. ok so I wanted to work with my poly clay and use enamel.I cant figure out which type of enamel I need.Any advice? or just where to find what Im looking for:)

  4. Lorena, I know that cold enamels are the ones people use. I’m not sure on the brands but if you can lay hands on a copy of Sue Heaser’s encyclopedia of polymer clay techniques or one of Patricia Kimle’s books there are enamel projects in them.

    Probably just googling about those will tell you which ones they used!

  5. I am a beginner at working with polymer clay. So far I love it, however, I am having a difficult time finding a clay conditioning machine that doesn’t have a handle that constantly falls off. If anyone could recommend a good one I would be very grateful.
    Thanks so much,
    Dawn

  6. Hey Dawn!

    Any of the better quality pasta machine handles don’t fall off quite so easily.

    What we do with our class ones is tie a short string to the handle and the machine so that when it does fall out it doesn’t go flying to the ground. You have to experiment a bit to find where the string can go without tangling as you use the machine.

  7. Hi Joe here. I just put a small piece adhesive tape about 3-4 times around the cam end (that goes into the machine) and then push the handle in.
    It will still come out fairy easily but won’t be so loose. I also do lock the machine to my work table and sort of push towards the machine as you turn the handle. That should keep it in place. A pasta machine is a pasta machine. No need to spend over 15-20 bucks. Welcome to the family. Poly clay really has no limits in it’s ability to become magic.

  8. Hi Joe! It’s always good to see what other folks do with their pasta machines. While I have some “budget” ones in that 15-20 bux US range, I do like the sturdiness of my slightly pricier – say 40-60 range – Italian machines. The gears are more reliable and the handles are machined better so they don’t slip much. Luckily you can often find them at garage sales!

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.