Polymer Clay

Fimo and clay tips and tutorials

Polymer Clay Beadmaking Tips

by

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]

Next Polymer Clay Idea:

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?

Clay Studio Series – YouTube Video Review: What type of clay should I use?

What Type of Clay Should I Use? Comparing Three Stoneware Bodies

If there’s one question that potters—especially beginners—ask over and over again, it’s this: “What type of clay should I use?” With so many options available, from smooth white bodies to gritty, speckled stonewares, the choice can feel overwhelming. In this Clay Studio Series feature, we’re reviewing a video that takes the guesswork out by throwing, trimming, and comparing three distinct stoneware clays side by side.

Why This Video Stands Out

Instead of just talking about clay in theory, the potter works directly with three clay bodies and shows the differences in real time. You can see how each clay reacts on the wheel, how it trims when leather-hard, and what kinds of issues may arise depending on the body you choose. This hands-on comparison makes it far easier to understand than simply reading product labels.

The video also tackles a common curiosity: the pink-toned ES80 stoneware, often admired for its warm coloring. The creator points out that this clay is manufactured for reduction firing and won’t give the same results in oxidation, a detail that often gets overlooked by beginners.

Key Lessons for Beginners

  • Not All Clay is Equal: Some clay bodies are far more forgiving for new potters, while others require more experience to manage.

  • Know Your Firing Method: Certain clays, like ES80, are formulated specifically for reduction kilns. Using them in an electric oxidation kiln may leave you disappointed.

  • Texture & Plasticity Matter: Smooth clays can be easier to throw but may slump when trimming. Grittier bodies hold structure but can be harder on your hands.

  • There’s No Single “Best” Clay: Each clay has its pros and cons — the trick is matching your choice to your skill level and the project you have in mind.

Why We Recommend Watching

For beginners, choosing the right clay can mean the difference between frustration and success. This video demystifies the process by giving a clear visual comparison of three popular stoneware options. By the end, you’ll have a better idea of what qualities to look for in a clay body and which ones might fit your needs best.

For intermediate and advanced potters, the insights are still valuable. Even if you’ve been working with one clay for years, seeing how others handle could inspire you to experiment with something new.

This review proves that clay choice is less about finding a universal “best” and more about learning what works for you. Whether you want smooth, easy-to-handle clay for your first mugs or a robust, grogged body for sculptural pieces, this video is a fantastic guide to help you make a confident decision.

Watch the full video here: What Type of Clay Should I Use?