Polymer Clay

Fimo and clay tips and tutorials

Snow Snow Snow

by

We’re currently smack in the middle of a blizzard, where I am. I have snow on the brain. Also, everywhere else. I went looking for snowy themed clay projects and found a nifty mixed media one at Sculpey.com (reliable and awesome resource by the way).

As an aside, I’m crazy curious if anyone has had any luck using punches to make shapes from very thin, cured sheets of clay? I know I’ve read about it, including someone using a Cricut to cut shapes from clay. I could get it to work on very thin sheets if the shape was not complicated but for pieces like that… cutters are a simpler solution in the first place.

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Comments

  1. I have used paper punches to punch out shapes from thin baked sheets of clay and used them to make garland and a mobile centerpiece for a party. Go crazy! The possibilities are endless 🙂

  2. Yes, I have cut clay. sculpy, and that sort of thing with my Sizzix.I always put it between sheets of wax, parchment or freezer paper before die cutting-that way it does not stick to the foam on the die. I have not tried really intricate shapes, but have had good luck with many different, simpler shapes.

  3. I use the little punches on thin sheets of raw clay and apply them to beads or ornaments. It works pretty well…if they’re fairly complex punches, I back it with parchment paper and they pop right out. I haven’t tried it on baked clay yet….

    –Cathy

Have you read?

Clay Studio Series – YouTube Video Review: What type of clay should I use?

What Type of Clay Should I Use? Comparing Three Stoneware Bodies

If there’s one question that potters—especially beginners—ask over and over again, it’s this: “What type of clay should I use?” With so many options available, from smooth white bodies to gritty, speckled stonewares, the choice can feel overwhelming. In this Clay Studio Series feature, we’re reviewing a video that takes the guesswork out by throwing, trimming, and comparing three distinct stoneware clays side by side.

Why This Video Stands Out

Instead of just talking about clay in theory, the potter works directly with three clay bodies and shows the differences in real time. You can see how each clay reacts on the wheel, how it trims when leather-hard, and what kinds of issues may arise depending on the body you choose. This hands-on comparison makes it far easier to understand than simply reading product labels.

The video also tackles a common curiosity: the pink-toned ES80 stoneware, often admired for its warm coloring. The creator points out that this clay is manufactured for reduction firing and won’t give the same results in oxidation, a detail that often gets overlooked by beginners.

Key Lessons for Beginners

  • Not All Clay is Equal: Some clay bodies are far more forgiving for new potters, while others require more experience to manage.

  • Know Your Firing Method: Certain clays, like ES80, are formulated specifically for reduction kilns. Using them in an electric oxidation kiln may leave you disappointed.

  • Texture & Plasticity Matter: Smooth clays can be easier to throw but may slump when trimming. Grittier bodies hold structure but can be harder on your hands.

  • There’s No Single “Best” Clay: Each clay has its pros and cons — the trick is matching your choice to your skill level and the project you have in mind.

Why We Recommend Watching

For beginners, choosing the right clay can mean the difference between frustration and success. This video demystifies the process by giving a clear visual comparison of three popular stoneware options. By the end, you’ll have a better idea of what qualities to look for in a clay body and which ones might fit your needs best.

For intermediate and advanced potters, the insights are still valuable. Even if you’ve been working with one clay for years, seeing how others handle could inspire you to experiment with something new.

This review proves that clay choice is less about finding a universal “best” and more about learning what works for you. Whether you want smooth, easy-to-handle clay for your first mugs or a robust, grogged body for sculptural pieces, this video is a fantastic guide to help you make a confident decision.

Watch the full video here: What Type of Clay Should I Use?