Polymer Clay

Fimo and clay tips and tutorials

Polymer Clay – Pasta Machine Basics

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admit it. I take it for granted that I have a pasta machine to use with my Fimo clay. In fact, I have several although I only use one every day. And it’s a good quality Atlas pasta machine with a motor that isn’t bad to clean and doesn’t make weird noises yet. The first few years that I played hard with clay I didn’t have a pasta machine and the first few machines I worked with were ones I got at various discount kitchen stores or old Amaco ones from garage sales. They did the job just fine.

Amy Christie of This Heart of Mine describes how to do basic conditioning with a pasta machine. I mostly work with Premo clay these days and it conditions simply by hand or a pasta machine (particularly in the summer!) but when I got my first machine I was still working at least half with Fimo Classic and being able to use a machine to condition my clay was a revelation. It was a lot simpler and more efficient for getting all that clay nice and workable.

My absolutely most basic hint for new pasta machine owners? Clean the crud out of the machine every. Time. You. Use. It. Wipe the crumbs out of the corners by the roller, brush or scrape off the scraper near the bottom of the rollers. Don’t let it build up. You’ll have less maintenance and less streaking and mess. And the other tip: try to not force thick slabs through the machine. You’ll get years more time out of the thing if you stick to the no thicker than double-ish the gap.

Have you read?

Etsy Feature – DIY Face Planter Pottery Template

Quirky, fun, and full of personality—this DIY Face Planter Pottery Template is the kind of project that makes everyone smile. Planters are already a favorite for potters because they’re so versatile, but when you add a playful face into the mix? You’ve got a conversation starter, a gift idea, and a cheerful addition to your home all in one.

What It Is

This template guides you step-by-step in slab-building a face-shaped planter. You’ll get the form sorted out easily, leaving all the creativity in the decorating stage—think glasses, freckles, funny noses, bright lips, or even exaggerated cartoon features. It’s essentially a blank canvas with character built right in.

Why It’s Fun and Functional

  • Customizable: Each planter can be as unique as the person making it—no two faces will ever be the same. 
  • Beginner-Friendly: Templates take away the guesswork, letting you focus on the fun. 
  • Gift-Worthy: Perfect as a handmade present for plant lovers or anyone who loves whimsical décor. 
  • Practical: A planter you’ll actually use, not just display. 

Creative Ideas for Your Planter

  • Add bright glazes to create bold personalities. 
  • Use matte neutrals for a more modern, sculptural look. 
  • Give each face a “hairstyle” with trailing plants like string of pearls, ferns, or succulents. 
  • Try a family set—different faces for different family members or moods. 

Why You’ll Love This Project

This planter template is more than just pottery—it’s playful art. The finished piece brings life and laughter into any space, and because you can customize it endlessly, it’s the kind of project you’ll want to make again and again.

You can find it here: DIY Face Planter Pottery Template on Etsy.

This post is part of my Etsy Feature series, where I highlight clay templates, tools, and creative projects that make pottery fun, approachable, and full of charm. This one is especially delightful because it gives you permission to play and be silly with your clay.

13 DIY Hanging Planters You Can Make At Home [Home and Garden]

12 Plants To Put In Your Bedroom To Help You Sleep [Bath and Body]