Polymer Clay Salamanders

I’m not sure when the salamander obsession began—probably around twelve or thirteen. I would study my favorite salamanders for hours and try to recreate them perfectly with polymer clay and acrylic paint. I also tried to convince my dad to build an ephemeral pool (a seasonal, fishless pond), but the idea of mosquitoes was not very appealing to him.

Northern slimy salamander made from polymer clay, craft acrylic paint, and polyurethane gloss.

Initially, my goal was to make all the salamanders in the United States (over 80 species). However, I have since shifted my attention to other work.

Side view of the northern slimy salamander.

I tried to recreate each species as accurately as possible, down to the number of costal grooves and slight variations in coloring. My favorite family is Ambystomatidae, which includes mole salamanders and the beloved marbled salamander.

My polymer clay salamander collection: Weller’s, zigzag, green, cave, northern slimy, red, marbled (female), frosted flatwoods, spotted, northern slimy, and marbled (male). Not pictured: red-cheeked salamander and another marbled salamander.

Above are some of my clay salamanders in their wooden box that Tori (my older sister) made. I’d love to make more salamanders one day! Perhaps create little habitats for them in glass domes, with clay mushrooms and moss and snail shells and such. What are your thoughts?