Polymer Clay

Fimo and clay tips and tutorials

October Polymer Cafe Magazine Giveaway!

by

polymer_cafe_32_t Want to win the October issue of Polymer Cafe?  It includes an elegant image transfer pendant by Kathy Shield Dummer, a unique way of making a signature cane by Jill Palumbo , and a cute as can be pumpkin cottage from Trish Hodgens.  Miniaturists will enjoy the bread and cheese project by Pamela J., and the apple core beads by Lynette Fisk.

Since Polymer Cafe is a magazine by clayers, for clayers, to be entered in the giveaway, leave a comment and let us know if you’ve considered submitting a project to the magazine (or if you have!)

The winner will be selected from the commentators via random.org on September 30.  Remember to leave a way for us to contact you!

[tags]polymer cafe magazine, giveaway[/tags]

Comments

  2. Wow! I don’t have this issue yet, and I would love to win it! Although, being a first commentator, I will probably not be a winner, I never saw first commentators win :)))
    I still consider myself a beginner in clay, but I think at some point I would love to submit some project to the magazine :))

  3. Actually, I haven’t tried this yet but I’ve been so fascinated with the postings on Graft Gossip that I’ve started investigating and wound up here. I’d love a free issue to see what I’m getting myself into!! : ) Thank you!

  5. This magazine looks interesting. I want to know more about polymer clay techniques, so I think itwould be good start

  6. Still just a beginner so I have no projects to submit, but I dream of doing so in the near future.

    Thank you for producing such a quality site! It never fails to inspire.

  7. I haven’t submitted to Polymer Cafe, mainly because I’m at the point of hoping to actually learn how to use polymer first! I know there are lots of avenues to explore.

  8. I’ve only begun working with polymer clay, so I wouldn’t think I about submitting to a magazine at this point. Maybe in the future 🙂

  11. I have thought of many projects to submit, but none of them ever end up seeming good enough. I should just bite the polymer clay bullett and do it.

    Elizabeth Freeman
    915 588 1208

  12. I have a pile of polymer clay, but have not used it to make beads or pendants yet. I used to make dollhouse miniatures (mainly using polymer clay), now I make jewelry (mainly wirework and beads), so I would definitely like to play with my polymer clay again making beads or pendants. If I did, then I would consider submitting to this magazine. I am very interested in this issue since it combines jewelry AND miniatures! Thanks for the giveaway!!

  15. I would love submit a project to the magazine some day! 🙂 I consider myself a beginner in clay for now, but if I come up with a good idea, I sur will try to submit it :)))
    Please enter me in your giveaway! :))

  17. If I had anything worthy, I’d submit it. Maybe I should stop reading and go make something!

    lindaanne at yahoo.com

  19. Hi,
    I am still new to polymer clay. Maybe someday I will submit something. I love this magazine. Now im buying all the back issues I can find.

  20. I am waiting to feel enough confidence in my work to submit to the magazine. But I decided I will definitely submit something within the next six to nine months.

  21. Thank you for the chance to win a copy. I would love to submit a project to the magazine, if I knew how. Like a previous entrant, I am from Oz and we don’t get the magazine here.
    Kind regards to all.

  23. Hi Feree!

    The issue you are looking for is PolymerCafe’s February 2009 one. You can find PolymerCafe.com and see if they have back issues or search online (ebay for example) to see if anyone is selling copies.

  24. I would love to win this magazine. I am just learning about polymer clay, but might someday have something to submit!

  26. I am looking into clay as a medium. I have seen some REALLY nice jewelry and would not have guessed it was clay. Like I said I am in the looking stage now. Thank you

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.