Polymer Clay

Fimo and clay tips and tutorials

Polymer clay, on the side please.

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That’s the way it is for a lot of polymer clay artists. Those of us with some type of physical illness or limitation know exactly what I mean by say by saying “on the side please”. I can personally say that it’s not because we don’t want to clay. It’s due to , say the pain, or grogginess, lol. You know, the put the milk in the cupboard and not the fridge. You really wouldn’t understand unless you’ve been there.Hmmm…..you might understand, not fully tho. Well, I’m trying to get my ducks in out of the fog and start bringing some fun around here, I don’t think you come here just to see eye candy. You expect some opinions and smart aleck comments RIGHT ? ? Oh yeah, there’s gonna be…. prizes :):):):) There are also some other changes happening around here in the blog. But, I’m not sure i can elaborate on those details yet.

So, I’m going to take a couple, maybe three days off to pull everything together, But I hope you can understand, life certainly can put you down for the count on some occasions. I’ve had new meds added to the growing list and they don’t want to play nicely. It’s just a gotta get used to them thing. Well, lets hope the fight ends favorably, MY favor, that is !

Comments

  2. Wendy, I was wondering what the heck happened to you! I’m so sorry you’re ill but glad you’re on the upswing; I hope the new meds help, not only so you can get back into the PC but back into everything else that had to sit to the side while you weren’t feeling quite right (yep, it’s something I *do* understand).

    Looking forward to your full, smart-alecky return :),

    Mary Kaye

  3. Thanks Ladies ! I appreciate the warm thoughts more than you know. What would I do without online “friends”. They’re the best ones, they aren’t at your home all the time, lol!!!!

    **Oh, and I am also glad you guys like my smarty pants attitude 🙂

    I’ll be back Monday, ready and raring to go !

  4. Hi Wendy,

    I totally understand. I started “claying” about 8 years ago, but have done next to nothing the last couple years. My heart was in it, but my body wasn’t. I suffer from back and joint pain, due to arthritis, and actually had to have major back surgery this summer. So, I know. I so hope to get back to it very soon. I really miss it.

    I hope you are able to get back into the swing of things, too!

    Hugs,
    Shannon

  5. Oh Shannon! That’s tough. I hope the best for you and that you have someone with you there. It’s tough to be at a hospital without a loved one.

    Bless you and I hope you have a speedy recovery.

Have you read?

DIY Clay Flower Frog Tutorial – A Handmade Tool for Arranging Blooms

If you’ve ever struggled to get your flowers to stand just right in a vase, let me introduce you to one of the most charming old-fashioned tools around: the flower frog. Traditionally made from metal or glass, a flower frog is simply a base with holes that keeps stems in place so you can create balanced, natural arrangements without fussing. Today, we’re giving this vintage idea a modern twist by making a clay flower frog with our own hands.

This project is wonderfully simple, yet it creates something you’ll use again and again – especially if you love bringing fresh blooms inside from the garden. It’s also a fantastic beginner-friendly clay project that gives you a chance to practice shaping and smoothing without needing advanced pottery skills.

Materials You’ll Need

  • Pottery clay (stoneware or earthenware works well; you can also use air-dry clay for a decorative-only version)

  • A rolling pin or clay roller

  • A needle tool or skewer

  • A small round cookie cutter or cup for shaping

  • Sponge and water for smoothing

  • Optional: glaze in your favorite color (if kiln-firing) or acrylic paint/sealer for air-dry clay

Step-by-Step Tutorial

Step 1: Prepare Your Clay

Wedge your clay (fancy potter’s word for kneading out the air bubbles) until smooth. Roll it out to about 1 inch thick – thick enough that your holes won’t weaken the structure.

Step 2: Cut the Base Shape

Using a cookie cutter, cup, or template, cut out a circle or oval about 3–4 inches across. This will form the base of your flower frog. Smooth the edges with a damp sponge.

Step 3: Add the Holes

Use a skewer, chopstick, or needle tool to pierce holes across the surface. Space them evenly but not too close to the edges. Aim for around 6–10 holes, depending on the size of your frog. Make sure the holes go all the way through so stems can slide in easily.

Step 4: Refine and Smooth

Dip your tool in water and smooth around each hole to prevent cracking later. Take your time here—neat holes are what make your frog functional and pretty.

Step 5: Let It Dry

  • For kiln clay: Allow to dry until bone dry, then bisque fire. Apply glaze of choice and fire again.

  • For air-dry clay: Let it cure completely according to the package instructions, usually 24–48 hours.

Step 6: Finish and Seal

  • If you’re kiln-firing, this is where you’ll add that glossy glaze – think celadon green, soft blue, or speckled neutrals.

  • If you’re using air-dry clay, paint with acrylics and add a clear sealer to protect it from water.

Using Your Clay Flower Frog

Place your finished frog at the bottom of a shallow bowl or vase, add water, and start threading flower stems through the holes. The frog will hold them upright and let you create that lush, organic look without fuss. For a more rustic style, leave the clay unglazed (just make sure it’s still sealed if you’ll be adding water).

Variations to Try

  • Mini Frogs: Make smaller versions for teacups or bud vases.

  • Square or Oval Shapes: Who says flower frogs have to be round?

  • Decorative Impressions: Press lace, leaves, or stamps into the clay before making the holes for a bit of texture.

  • Stacked Frogs: Make two thinner discs and stack them together for a taller look.

Why You’ll Love This Project

Not only do you get a handmade, functional tool, but you’re also keeping alive a vintage floral tradition. These little clay flower frogs make beautiful gifts, especially paired with a thrifted vase and a bunch of fresh-picked blooms.