Polymer Clay

Fimo and clay tips and tutorials

Polymer Clay Recipe Journal

by

final_yell.jpgAre you still reading Grandma’s pumpkin pie recipe from a stained index card?  Maybe it’s time to update your family favorites in a recipe book that will become a treasured heirloom.

[tags]polymer clay, crafts, journals, books, recipe book, projects[/tags]

Comments

  1. I have read several places about a craft clay that you can make at home that uses white glue along with some other ingredients. they call it polymer clay.Does anyone know that recipe? Where can I find it?

  2. has anyone given you the answer for the polymer clay recipe?” if they have can you send it to me?”

  3. For people looking for a polymer clay (air dry) recipe:

    – 1/2 cup White Glue (School glue)
    – 1/2 cup Cornstarch
    – 1/2 teaspoon lemon (to act as preservative)
    – Hand or Body lotion
    – Microwave safe mixing bowl
    – Spatula

    Place Glue, Cornstarch, and Lemon in bowl, mix until smooth. Microwave on high for 30 second intervals until the mixture forms a heavy dough and darkens lightly in color. When the clay becomes very sticky and difficult to knead, let cool and add lotion into the dough in teaspoon increments. Knead the lotion in until the clay as a smooth consistency and glossy appeal.

    Store in an airtight container- clay pieces will take 24 hours to cure under 1/4 inch thickness.

    Clay will dry translucent unless color is added- food coloring, alcohol based pigments (like permanent markers), pastels, or acrylic paints can all be worked into the clay without problem.

  5. You can try this recipe if it is helpful :
    Take
    1 cup of flour
    1 cup white german glue
    1and half table spoons of glercerin or baby oil or cooking oil which ever is easily available
    on very low heat cook the mix for at least 10-12 minutes with constant stirring.when the mixture becomes less sticky turn off the flame and
    take out the mixtures and with hands try to fold it again and agin for 10 minutes. your dough is ready 🙂

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.