Polymer Clay

Fimo and clay tips and tutorials

Polymer Clay Holiday Gift Guide – Be In It !

by

Ilysa and Kira of Polymer Clay Productions are calling for entries to put in a Holiday gift guide featuring polymer clay artists. The entries will be shared with viewers in a Polymer Clay Productions podcast & TV episode. It’s a wonderful way to get people thinking about buying handmade polymer clay items for this holiday season. It’s never too early to promote your work and this is a great way to get your work “out” there for the public to see.

They are hoping to get enough entries for the following categories: jewelry, housewares, wearables (not jewelry), table top centerpieces, ornaments, hostess gifts and cards. If anyone has any suggestions for other categories you are welcome to contact Ilysa.

If you would like to participate in the gift guide, send in 2-3 photos each of 3-5 different items that you would like to promote to [email protected] . Please include a link to your website or Etsy shop. She will use as many as she can.

She is also looking for artists who want to send actual product to be seen on the show, these items will NOT be returned but will be used as holiday prizes to audience members, you will receive a link to your shop and if you send a bio we may use some info from there as well. If your item is used on the show we will give you credit in the show credits so that the listeners & viewers can find your shop. You can also include your business cards and any other info about the products you send. They have around 30,000+ listeners and viewers come to their site every month not including that they are on You Tube, Google Video, I Tunes, Yahoo video, Blip TV, Flickr Video and about 300+ other places. They are listened to and watched around the world.

Ilysa will need the photos and products in the next month to give her time to organize everything. Anyone sending products should get it to her as soon as possible too. Please let her know if you are interested by sending an e-mail to [email protected] .

Please send product entries (not photos) to :
Ilysa Bierer
Polymer Clay Productions, Inc.
P.O. Box 1527
Branford,FL 32008

[tags]polymer clay, Polymer Clay Productions, podcasts, holiday gift guide[/tags]

 

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.