Polymer Clay

Fimo and clay tips and tutorials

Polymer Clay Beadmaking Tips

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15-cd-case-lentil-bead-rolling-90055.jpgIf you haven’t already, check out Cindy Lietz Beadmaking Tips.  She has a great blog filled with little tid-bits to make beadmaking easier.  Love her clear photographs and easy to understand directions. 

I had a tri-bead roller that sat on my shelf since last year, thanks to Cindy, I’ve actually started using it!

I loved this week’s tip of using old cd cases if you don’t have plexi-glass to roll lentil beads, so clever.

[tags]polymer clay, arts & crafts, beadmaking[/tags]

Comments

  1. Thanks very much for this post Heather! Glad you found the bead roller info useful. I found the tri-bead roller a big pain until I figured out how to measure the clay right. Isn’t it always the way? Something that looks easy is often hard and something that looks hard is often easy!

    The CD case is something I figured out being lazy! Rather than look for my acrylic sheet, I just grabbed a CD case laying near by. This is a great way to get started with rolling lentil beads, even if you don’t have all the “proper” tools yet. BTW, for anyone that wants to know more about making lentil beads, I’ll be emailing out a free video tutorial later this week to everyone on my guest list.

    Oh and… if you have not seen it yet, the first link in your post above is going to 404 error page.

    Thanks again for thinking of me Heather. Much appreciated!

  2. I am new to beading, don’t have much money for lots of new contraptions so any homemade tools is always a wonderful thing. It’s either new tools or food for the kids. hmmm?

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]