Nicole Johnson’s Pumpkin Heads should put you in an October mood. She has a whole gallery of pumpkins complete with teeth and bulging eyes. Her blog is newly renovated for the season with fresh mummies, monsters and zombies. She’s even written a book on the subject.

If zombie books aren’t your thing, there are several new polymer technique books that you may find of interest:

Marie Segal’s Polymer Clay Artist’s Guide is a comprehensive directory of surface effects. (It’s hard to keep track of all the new ones, isn’t it?) She features the work of lots of up-and-coming artists who may be new to you. The pictures make the recipes easy to follow and it’s a reference book that’s handy to have.

If mixed media is more your cup of tea, look at Incite, Dreams Realized: The Best of Mixed Media. You’ll spot the work of several polymer artists in this arty, inspiring book.

If how-to projects with hip designs are what you’re hungry for, try Polymer Clay Art Jewelry by Ilysa Ginsburg & Kira Slye. It’s bright and breezy and full of fashion.