Polymer Clay

Fimo and clay tips and tutorials

Polymer clay ATC Swap

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I’m hosting an ATC swap at Polymer Clay Central and would like to extend an invitation to the first 30 readers to join in on the fun by emailing me at the address below . This is my first time hosting a swap and the only reason I’m having to limit the participates. I hope everyone understands. I would hate it if I disappointed  my swappers by messing something up .

Here are the details :

— The cards are to be playing card size ( 2 1/2 inches X 3 1/2 inches)  and be made primarily out of polymer clay, although you may embellish them with other mediums and accessories. Please limit the thickness to about 1/4 inch.

— Groups of 4 swappers- Make 3 similar cards for each group you join. You will not get one of your own back. The max groups to join per swapper is 5. (If you join 4 groups, you need to make 12 ATC’s, 2 groups = 6 cards, etc.).

— On the back of the cards please include your name (and/or ID you go by) , email address, and other information about the card such as name/title of the card, date the card was created, which number it is in the series of cards, i.e. 3 of 3 or 1 of 3 . They don’t have to be all the same, you may make them all different.

— Sign up by August 20th by sending me an email at the following address : claycrazy (dot) etsy (at) gmail (dot) com .

— Cards are due to me by September 30th

— I will email everyone that joins on August 21st with the remaining details including the mailing address to send to cards to me. Please don’t forget you will need to send postage so I can mail your cards to you.

–If you have any questions , please leave a comment below and I will answer as soon as I can.

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DIY Air Dry Clay Magnets – Easy Stamped Clay Craft

There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about clay crafts, isn’t there? The cool, smooth texture in your hands, the way it slowly transforms with just a little pressure and imagination—it’s both soothing and creative. Today, we’re making DIY air dry clay magnets that are stamped, painted, and perfect for adding a handmade touch to your fridge or craft room.

This project is simple, relaxing, and looks far more “designer” than it really is. Think of it as pottery without the kiln—no fancy equipment needed!

Why You’ll Love This Project

  • Uses air dry clay – no oven or kiln.

  • Great for leftover clay scraps.

  • Endless possibilities with different stamps, textures, and paints.

  • Makes thoughtful handmade gifts (great for teachers, neighbors, or stocking stuffers).

  • Works as a fun craft session with teens or grandkids.

Supplies You’ll Need

  • Air dry clay (white works best for stamping)

  • Rubber stamps or textured items (lace, doilies, leaves, even buttons!)

  • Acrylic paint or ink pads

  • Rolling pin (or just grab a glass bottle)

  • Circle cookie cutter (or jar lid)

  • Magnets (strong flat-backed ones work best)

  • Strong craft glue or hot glue gun

  • Sealer (optional: Mod Podge or matte varnish)

Step-by-Step Tutorial

Step 1 – Roll Out Your Clay

Start with a small ball of clay and roll it out to about ¼ inch thick. Not too thin, or it’ll crack while drying, and not too chunky, or your magnets will be too heavy.

Step 2 – Stamp and Texture

Press your chosen rubber stamp or textured object firmly into the clay. Don’t worry about perfection—slight variations give that handmade charm.

Tip: If you’re using an ink pad, you can ink the stamp before pressing to add instant color to the impression.

Step 3 – Cut Out Shapes

Use a cookie cutter, jar lid, or knife to cut neat circles (or any shape you like—hearts, squares, even freeform ovals).

Step 4 – Smooth Edges

Gently smooth the edges with damp fingers or a bit of water. This gives a polished finish.

Step 5 – Dry

Place your pieces on baking paper and allow them to dry for 24–48 hours. Flip halfway through to prevent curling.

Step 6 – Paint or Highlight

Once dry, you can leave them natural or lightly brush paint over the raised designs to highlight the texture. Metallics (gold, silver, copper) look stunning, but even soft pastels give a pretty effect.

Step 7 – Seal (Optional)

If you want extra durability, brush on a thin coat of Mod Podge or varnish.

Step 8 – Attach Magnets

Finally, glue a magnet to the back of each piece. Let the glue cure fully before sticking them on your fridge.

Variations to Try

  • Rustic farmhouse look: Use lace or burlap for stamping and paint with a whitewash effect.

  • Modern boho: Try geometric stamps and metallic paint accents.

  • Seasonal magnets: Use themed stamps (snowflakes, flowers, leaves) for year-round sets.

  • Kids’ art version: Let the kids press buttons, Lego bricks, or small toys into the clay for fun patterns.

Tips

These don’t just work as magnets—you can glue them onto gift tags, turn them into brooches, or even make them into pendants for necklaces. Once you start, you’ll be stamping everything in sight (don’t say I didn’t warn you!).

Handmade doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. These DIY air dry clay magnets prove just that—simple materials, a little creativity, and you’ve got a set of unique, functional mini artworks. Perfect for gifting, decorating, or just adding a bit of joy to the everyday.