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?

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.