Polymer Clay

Fimo and clay tips and tutorials

Shopping! For clayers

by

This week I faced my love-hate: I had to shop for clay. I love clay. I hate shopping. Well, sometimes I like it but from online, never as fun and there’s no crafty place within a 150 miles. Seriously, my nearest Michaels is that far away.

Still, I loaded up on goodies. I even broke down and ordered a replacement pasta machine and motor for my Atlas 150 which is nearing The End.

My question to all you polymer clay loving folks… who do you love to shop with? Who’s got the best deals, the selection you like best, the nicest service? What’s cool and new to buy in the clay world (on top of being in the boonies, I’m also in Canada where things don’t get released nearly as often as in the US) that you’re keen to pick up?

I’m interested in making this a regular thing – reviewing products and shops we’ve all used and loved. So… send me your links to all things clay supply, clay book, clay store, clay tools.

Comments

  1. Polymerclayexpress is my favorite at polymerclayexplress.com. I can get just about everything all polyfrom products, cernit, kato and fim, soft and classic. Premo is 2/bar regulary and all their clay is fresh, so fresh it often needs to leached a little but that is better that hard and crumbly from micheals.

    They are also the few places that sell Zinc yellow and colbalt.

  2. I shop locally at Munro’s craft store. They do sell online but I love the atmosphere in the store. I’m satisfied with their selection of clay and accessories and the staff is knowledgeable.

  3. It could be worse…you could be stationed on an island where there are NO craft stores at all (that’s me), so pretty much, whoever I can actually get to ship things here online is my only choice. I will be checking out this polymerclayexpress.com and crossing my fingers they will ship here (and it wont cost me my left leg)

  4. I do shop online at Munro’s – can’t beat the price easily when you’re buying in the quantities I use – and I like polymerclayexpress for small stacks of goodies + using my PayPal.

    Evirr – if you need a good chunk of stuff, try Munrocrafts. Polymerclayexpress is great if you need a moderate amount.

    And you’re right – I do get the chance to go hit a craft store every two months or so when I go to the city.

  5. I’m new here in Canada and just started the polymer clay craft. I love Michaels, unfortunately it’s too far from where I live. Thanks for posting this. I learned where to get supplies.

  6. Yeah, when I lived in Calgary I could hit the Michaels (or it’s predecessors) but now in rural Saskatchewan, I have issues. Mostly, I order from Munro’s and Polymerclayexpress

Have you read?

DIY Air Dry Clay Magnets – Easy Stamped Clay Craft

There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about clay crafts, isn’t there? The cool, smooth texture in your hands, the way it slowly transforms with just a little pressure and imagination—it’s both soothing and creative. Today, we’re making DIY air dry clay magnets that are stamped, painted, and perfect for adding a handmade touch to your fridge or craft room.

This project is simple, relaxing, and looks far more “designer” than it really is. Think of it as pottery without the kiln—no fancy equipment needed!

Why You’ll Love This Project

  • Uses air dry clay – no oven or kiln.

  • Great for leftover clay scraps.

  • Endless possibilities with different stamps, textures, and paints.

  • Makes thoughtful handmade gifts (great for teachers, neighbors, or stocking stuffers).

  • Works as a fun craft session with teens or grandkids.

Supplies You’ll Need

  • Air dry clay (white works best for stamping)

  • Rubber stamps or textured items (lace, doilies, leaves, even buttons!)

  • Acrylic paint or ink pads

  • Rolling pin (or just grab a glass bottle)

  • Circle cookie cutter (or jar lid)

  • Magnets (strong flat-backed ones work best)

  • Strong craft glue or hot glue gun

  • Sealer (optional: Mod Podge or matte varnish)

Step-by-Step Tutorial

Step 1 – Roll Out Your Clay

Start with a small ball of clay and roll it out to about ¼ inch thick. Not too thin, or it’ll crack while drying, and not too chunky, or your magnets will be too heavy.

Step 2 – Stamp and Texture

Press your chosen rubber stamp or textured object firmly into the clay. Don’t worry about perfection—slight variations give that handmade charm.

Tip: If you’re using an ink pad, you can ink the stamp before pressing to add instant color to the impression.

Step 3 – Cut Out Shapes

Use a cookie cutter, jar lid, or knife to cut neat circles (or any shape you like—hearts, squares, even freeform ovals).

Step 4 – Smooth Edges

Gently smooth the edges with damp fingers or a bit of water. This gives a polished finish.

Step 5 – Dry

Place your pieces on baking paper and allow them to dry for 24–48 hours. Flip halfway through to prevent curling.

Step 6 – Paint or Highlight

Once dry, you can leave them natural or lightly brush paint over the raised designs to highlight the texture. Metallics (gold, silver, copper) look stunning, but even soft pastels give a pretty effect.

Step 7 – Seal (Optional)

If you want extra durability, brush on a thin coat of Mod Podge or varnish.

Step 8 – Attach Magnets

Finally, glue a magnet to the back of each piece. Let the glue cure fully before sticking them on your fridge.

Variations to Try

  • Rustic farmhouse look: Use lace or burlap for stamping and paint with a whitewash effect.

  • Modern boho: Try geometric stamps and metallic paint accents.

  • Seasonal magnets: Use themed stamps (snowflakes, flowers, leaves) for year-round sets.

  • Kids’ art version: Let the kids press buttons, Lego bricks, or small toys into the clay for fun patterns.

Tips

These don’t just work as magnets—you can glue them onto gift tags, turn them into brooches, or even make them into pendants for necklaces. Once you start, you’ll be stamping everything in sight (don’t say I didn’t warn you!).

Handmade doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. These DIY air dry clay magnets prove just that—simple materials, a little creativity, and you’ve got a set of unique, functional mini artworks. Perfect for gifting, decorating, or just adding a bit of joy to the everyday.