(noun) attendees of Clayphoria. Easily identified by polymer clay covered hands, tired eyes but big smiles and unlimited creativity.
Click on the image for the full view. ↓ Then scroll right to meet the faces who made polymer clay move →
Clayphoria 2026 officially kicked off in Glasgow on Thursday, 19th of February and what a start it was! Thank you all for travelling from near and far to share this wonderfully niche (and slightly obsessive 😄) love of polymer clay. Seeing so many of you here in Scotland has already made this event incredibly special.
We began with the “basics”… also known as a polymer clay pub quiz in the hotel bar. Because before any serious polymer clay work begins, it’s only right to test the knowledge first. 😉
With 14 questions, 4 international teams, and bragging rights on the line, the results were:
• Skinner Blends — 10 points
• Bunny Mama and The Girls — 11 points
• PolyFab — 12 points
• The Vikings — 13 points 🏆
Huge congratulations to everyone—those scores were seriously impressive! And extra cheers to The Vikings, who walked away with Scottish shortbread, Irn Bru, and goodies from Moiko Silkscreens as the prize.
Next came Clayphorian Bingo—with a twist. Unlike traditional bingo, where you’re aiming to match numbers in a row, this version was all about connection. Each square on the card featured a different prompt, and the goal was to mingle, chat, and find fellow attendees who matched those descriptions. It was the perfect icebreaker and a great way to meet so many wonderful, like-minded people.
A special shoutout to Hazel, our first bingo winner, who scored an incredible prize: a one-year membership with the International Polymer Clay Association 🎉
Then it was time for the scavenger hunt. Dozens of handwritten notes were hidden everywhere—behind mirrors, under napkins, beneath chairs… and those who found them earned prizes including DAS clay, Sculpey Doll Making Clay, Paku Stencils, and Moiko Texture Sheets.
The evening wrapped up with opening exciting gift bags, two course dinner, exploring the interactive PAC PEN stand, admiring Alison’s beautiful doll display, browsing Phil’s earring shop, and of course—the always fun handcrafted art swap.
What a way to start Clayphoria! 💚💖
Since the lovely dinner party the night before wrapped up just after 8pm, some dedicated early risers made the most of the hotel’s spa with a 7am swim and sauna session—arguably the most refreshing way to start a full day of polymer clay-ing ahead. 🌊🥽🫧🐋
Breakfast brought a proper Scottish touch, with haggis and potato scones on offer, and the chef made sure there was plenty to go around for everyone. 🍴
Masterclasses kicked off at 9am, marking the beginning of our first full workshop day—and what a success it was. Clayphorians got straight to work, building a vibrant army of flowers and parrots. A few of our feathered creations were reportedly suffering from a touch of arthritis at first… but no need to worry. With 24-hour access to the workshop and Cara on call, these delicate patients received the expert after-hours care and were happily restored to full health by the next day. 𓅰 𓅬 𓅭 𓅮 𓅯
They say growth happens when you’re pushed beyond your comfort zone—and Clayphoria is no exception. These classes blend engineering with artistry, and while they are undeniably intense, they offer an incredible opportunity to accelerate your skills in a very short space of time. 🎨🧰🛠⚙️
The first full day of workshops called for energy, patience, and precision, but the results spoke for themselves. It was especially lovely to see Clayphorians returning the next day with slightly tired eyes, but the biggest smiles—ready to keep going. 🤗
By Day 3, even more spinning flowers were blooming, and a steady stream of rabbit limbs and components were making their way in and out of our industrial ovens. Piece by piece, hour by hour, everyone worked on individual elements, gradually bringing their workshop masterpieces to life. 🐰ྀི
A truly special moment came from Sally, who generously shared her handcrafted keychains with all fellow Clayphorians. As the event will inevitably come to an end making everyone return to 17 different countries, these little keepsakes mean we all carry a piece of Clayphoria with us—a tiny pink and green tartan reminder tucked into our pockets or handbags, keeping us connected long after the event is over. 💚💕🏴
We also had a lovely moment celebrating Clayphorian Jacqueline’s birthday—because what better place to mark a special day than surrounded by creativity, laughter, and a room full of fellow polymer clay enthusiasts? 🎉
A perfect little celebration in the middle of an already unforgettable experience. 🎂🎈🎉🥳
After a full day of learning and creating, we headed out to experience something truly special at Sharmanka Kinetic Theatre—a mesmerising world of moving art crafted from wood and metal. 🎭 A perfect way to end another inspiring day.
The last day was always going to be emotional as we prepared to say our goodbyes—but not without one more jam-packed day together.🥹
Even on the final day, Clayphorians stayed true to their now well-rehearsed routine: morning swim, a full Scottish breakfast, and straight back into the workshop. This time, the focus was on more bunnies and parrots, with the day flowing through afternoon snacks, curing sessions, light lunch, more clay, and of course - strong coffee and Scottish biscuits - before wrapping up final demos and packing suitcases. 🧳
Not everyone went home with fully finished bunnies, but everyone left with the knowledge and skills to bring them to life at home. And already, just a few days later, it’s been magical to see photos and videos of ball-jointed rabbits popping up one by one. 📸 Please keep sharing—we’re looking forward to seeing a full army of bunnies just in time for Easter 🐰
Thank you all for making these four days so special. What an unforgettable experience to share with a room full of polymer clay enthusiasts. Until next time! 🫀
