Polymer Clay

Fimo and clay tips and tutorials

Polymer Clay Safety – reassuring words from the Doc!

by

By DocSarah

By DocSarah

Doc Sarah is the self-described “Guild Cheerleader and Web Tinkerer” for the PAPCG (Philadelphia Area Polymer Clay Guild) and as her username indicates, a medical doctor.   Recently, in a discussion about the safety of polymer clay, and concerns over the fumes released when it burns, she had this to say:

“The fumes of burning clay are an airway irritant. (The burning generates a low level of hydrochloric acid in gaseous form.) Basically that’s a fancy way to say the fumes stink and cause irritation. It is short lived. Of course children have smaller airways and may be more sensitive so it’s a good idea to keep up the ventilation to dilute the air. (if there is a risk of burning.) But don’t worry, there is no hidden toxic effect or delayed issue. If you don’t have any problems now, you won’t have any. Furthermore, if there is any irritation, when it’s gone it’s gone. You can’t take a product certified non-toxic and do anything to it to make it toxic. Burning will make it an irritant, but NOT a toxin per se (using medical definitions.)”

Doc Sarah is a helpful and sensible voice on the Polymer Clay Central forums, and she would probably want me to remind you that it is a good idea to wear some sort of dust mask when working with any mica powders or other particulate matter.  That will keep your lungs happy and smiling like the ladies she made from her first face cane!  (pictured above – she gives Barbara McGuire credit for helping her over come her face cane fears!)

Visit the PAPCG Guild’s blog at: http://papcg.wordpress.com/

Next Polymer Clay Idea:

Comments

Have you read?

Etsy Feature – City Street Pottery Roller with Handle

There’s something magical about pottery tools that tell a story, and this City Street Pottery Roller does just that. Instead of a simple repeating texture, this roller creates a charming row of houses, windows, and rooftops—instantly transforming a slab of clay into a whimsical little street scene.

What It Is

This Etsy listing features a large wooden roller with a sturdy handle, designed to press detailed cityscape patterns into clay. The impression is wide enough to create a continuous border, so you can roll across a slab and build an entire “town” in just a few passes.

It works beautifully on:

  • Pottery clay and ceramic slabs. 
  • Polymer clay for smaller-scale projects. 
  • Fondant and cookie dough for bakers who love edible art. 

Why It’s Special

  • Detailed & Unique: Each building has character, with intricate windows, doors, and trees in between. 
  • Storytelling Through Clay: Adds instant personality to mugs, trays, or tiles. 
  • Easy to Use: The handle gives you good pressure and control, so your impressions stay crisp. 
  • Versatile Applications: Perfect for both functional pottery and decorative art. 

Inspiration Ideas

  • Roll across a slab to make storybook-inspired trays or platters. 
  • Use as a border on mugs or vases for a cozy, handmade vibe. 
  • Cut sections into tiles to create a miniature clay city. 
  • Highlight the details with underglaze washes or oxide stains so the windows and rooftops pop. 

Why Makers Will Love It

Tools like this City Street Roller encourage playfulness in the studio. Instead of just adding texture, you’re adding narrative—each impression looks like a scene from a quaint European street. It’s perfect for potters who want their work to feel warm, nostalgic, and one-of-a-kind.

You can find it here: City Street Pottery Roller with Handle on Etsy.

This post is part of my Etsy Feature series, where I highlight tools and treasures that spark creativity for clay and pottery lovers. And honestly? This roller might just be the most charming one yet—it makes every project feel like it belongs in a little handmade village.