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Air dry clay is an ideal substitute to traditional clay for making ceramic projects because it can be easily shaped and dries naturally in open air. Some people confuse it with polymer clay, but the later requires heat to be hardened. Due to its versatile nature, air dry clay is a popular choice for beginners and DIY enthusiast for crafting ceramic-inspired decor projects, and one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces. However, it is not food safe or waterproof.
What Type of Things Can You Make with Air Dry Clay?
The possibilities are endless when it comes to air dry clay, here are some inspirations to guide you:
Kitchen: bowls, trays, napkin holder, pinch pot, coasters, spoons, container, egg holder, egg tray, cookie jar, butter dish, fruit basket, spoon rest, plate, toothpick holder,
Home Decorations: miniature figurines, animal sculptures, Christmas ornaments, incense stick holder, candle holder, bookends, casting art, picture frame, photo stand, cardholder, wall hanging, decorative vase, 3D letters or words, hand-painted tiles, nameplates, lamp base, hanging mobile, garland, decorative birdhouse, vase fillers, bowl fillers, wall sconce, paper weights
Garden: plant markers, succulent planter, fairy garden, bird feeder, bird bath, wind chime, drainage plate
Organize: jewelry, ring holder, trinket dish, keychain, key holder, pencil topper, pencil holder, paint brush holder, toothbrush holder, keepsake box, charging station, remote holder, brush rest
Gifts: painted mugs, magnet, bookmark, pet paw print shadow box, baby foot and hand print shadow box, hair clips, bag charms, custom stamps, tic tac toe board games, gift tags
Which Air Dry Clay to Use for Projects and why?
When it comes to choosing the right air dry clay, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider the brand. Look for popular modeling clay brands like DAS, creative paperclay, crayola, and sculpey, which offer high quality air dry clay options. Next, is color. Do you want white clay for delicate designs, terracotta clay for earthy tones, or colored clay for vibrant creations!
Air dry clay is perfect for beginners, as it’s easy to mold and shape. Plus, it’s a great way to add a personal touch to your handmade crafts, ceramic crafts, and pottery projects. Just remember to choose a clay with good tensile strength to minimize breakage.
How Long Does Air Dry Clay Take to Dry?
One of the most common questions about air dry clay is how long it takes to dry. The answer depends on a few factors, including the thickness of the clay, the humidity and temperature of your workspace, and the specific type of clay you’re using.
Generally speaking, thin pieces of air dry clay take 24-48 hours to dry, while medium thick pieces take 3-7 days. Thicker pieces can take 7-14 days or more to dry.
To speed up the drying process, try working in a well ventilated area with low humidity. You can also use a fan or a hair dryer on a low setting to gently accelerate drying. Be careful as speeding up the process may lead to irregular drying, cracking, and less sturdy results. Get more details on How Long Does Air Dry Clay Take to Dry?
How to Seal Leftover Air Dry Clay After Use to Keep it Soft?
Once your air dry clay project is complete, you’ll want to seal and protect the leftover clay to keep it soft. I like to double-seal and with this process I have managed to keep the crayola air dry clay soft for months. Take a airtight ziplock bag and put the clay in it, now roll and push out as much air as possible, such that you are applying a manual suction, and seal the bag. Put the sealed bag in a airtight container and make sure the lid is firmly closed. The crayola container works best for this in my personal experience but you can use any container with airtight lid.
How to protect and shine finished clay projects?
There are a few different options you can use to prevent clay from cracking, scratches, and basic wear and tear. Apply a sealant like air dry clay varnish, UV resistant clear acrylic coating, or dip in beeswax if handling food.
Clear varnish is a popular choice because it adds a protective coating without affecting the color or texture of the clay. Acrylic spray is another great option, as it’s easy to apply and dries quickly. Wax, such as beeswax or furniture wax, can also be used to add a protective coating and give your project a soft, subtle sheen. Just remember to follow the instructions carefully and apply a thin, even layer to avoid damaging your project.
Is air dry clay fragile, and how do I prevent it from cracking?
Air dry clay can be a bit fragile, but with some simple precautions, you can help prevent cracks and breakage. To start, make sure to dry your clay slowly and evenly, avoiding direct sunlight or heat. It’s also a good idea to handle your pieces gently when they’re still damp.
Once your pieces are dry, consider adding a clear sealant or varnish to protect them from moisture and wear. You can also add internal reinforcement, like wire or fabric, to give your pieces extra stability.
What supplies do I need to make crafts with air dry clay?
Typical craft supplies for making air clay crafts are
- Air Dry Clay
- Craft knife
- Silicone mat or a smooth surface to work on
- Clay roller or rolling pin
- Wax paper
- Flexible palette knife
- Extended thumb for joining
- Sandpaper
- Foam brush
- Varnish for Air Dry Clay
- Space heater (optional for quick drying)
Creative Air Dry Clay Crafts
HOME DECORATIONS
1. Candle Stick Holder
Want to add a personal touch to your home decor? Make your own air dry clay candlestick holders! You’ll need air dried clay, copper tube cap fittings, clay tools, foam insulation board, and some basic crafting tools. Simply shape, cut, and assemble the clay, then seal it with a two-step method. And the best part? You’ll be lighting up your space with a one-of-a-kind masterpiece that’s all yours!
or
Tealight Holder
Make a unique tealight holder in a trending shape like this mushroom candle holder for indoor garden.
2. Trinket Dish
Create your own adorable air dried clay trinket dishes in the shape of cherry blossoms! You’ll need air dry clay, acrylic paint, a cherry blossom template, and some basic crafting tools. These cute dishes are perfect for storing small treasures like jewelry, keys, or candies. They also make great gifts or decorative pieces for your home.
3. DIY Wall Sconce
Add a bohemian touch to your walls with a DIY clay wall sconce! Shape air dry clay into a unique piece, then add vibrant colors with acrylic paint. A perfect, easy clay project for beginners!
4. Incense holder
Make a cozy DIY clay incense holder using air.dried clay, a craft knife, and some black acrylic paint. This handmade craft is a great addition to your home decor and a thoughtful DIY gift idea.
5. Decorative Flowers
Transform air dry clay into stunning decorative flowers by rolling and shaping them with ease. Feel free to experiment with an array of petals and vibrant colors – your beautiful flowers will be ready in no time. Enhance any decor piece by gluing these items to it.
6. Wind Chimes
Create a whimsical DIY clay wind chime in the shape of mushrooms. Hang it outdoors or indoors to add charm and create a soothing atmosphere.
7. Flower Pot
Make a rich faux ceramic vase using air dry clay! Just roll it out, cover your jar, poke your design, and you’re good to go. Add your personal flair with some paint, and seal it up at the end. Easy and fun!
8. Decorative Shelf
A Perfect housewarming gift for those who love unique pieces and appreciate art!
9. Relief Sculpture Art
Use air dry clay to make statement bas relief casting art from your botanical collection, and make statement intricate artwork with plaster of Paris.
ORGANIZE
10. Napkin Ring
Heart-shaped napkin rings made with air dry clay in rose gold for Valentines day dinner. You can make these in any shape or design you like.
11. Raffia Bowls
Ditch the kiln and get crafting with air dry clay! With just a few simple materials like air hardening clay and raffia ribbon you can create stunning pots and bowls. Knead, roll, shape ,and weave your way to perfection!
12. Book Holder
Create a book holder which can be personalized with paint anyway you like. Pair it with a matching bookend set and bookmark.
13. Retro Brush Holder
A fun eaten apple-shaped toothbrush holder idea for your bathroom.
14. Mugs and cups
Learn to shape a basic cup with air dry clay and use this technique to make painted mugs.
15. DIY Paint Brush Rest
This cute little Van Gogh inspired accessory is a perfect gift for artists.
16. Toothbrush Holders
A perfect washroom accessory for those who love organizing their spaces while adding a touch of glam!
17. DIY Tissue Box
Create a beachy tissue box by shaping air.dried clay into ocean.inspired shells. Attach them to a standard tissue box base (made from clay too). Paint with calming coastal colors and add textures for a unique sea-inspired decor piece.
18. Photos or Card Stand
This cute little photo or cardholder, made from air dried clay and wires, can hold your photos and important notes to be displayed wherever you want! The cutest gift for your loved ones!
19. Key holders
Level up your entryway with a chic peacock-shaped key holder! Made from cardboard and air dry clay, this handmade piece brings a pop of color and personality to your space.
20. Phone holder
A phone holder is a minimalist’s dream. Functional and handmade, it keeps your phone in the perfect view. Consider making a charging station or remote holder.
21. Botanical Coasters
Create elegant coasters using air dry clay, leaves, wooden dowel, and metallic gold paint. Perfect for protecting surfaces from watermarks and spills, these coasters can be used on coffee tables, desks, or anywhere else you need a touch of elegance.
22. Earrings Holder
Create a cute DIY earring holder using clay! Shape, poke holes, and let it dry for displaying your earrings. Paint and add a personalized touch to keep your jewelry organized and stylish!
23. Spoon Rest
Create a unique spoon rest using air dry clay, varnish, and acrylic paints, shaped like a half fried egg. Add a touch of personality to your kitchen countertops with this functional and adorable holder.
24. DIY Egg Tray
Make your own egg trays using air dry clay and a cardboard egg carton. Just press the clay into the carton, let it dry, and paint with acrylics if you feel like it. Voila! A cute and handmade way to store your eggs!
25. Ashtray
Make a quirky heart.shaped ashtray with air dry clay and add some fake burnt clay cigarettes nestled inside. It’s a weirdly charming combo!
26. DIY Gift Tags
These adorable air dry clay gift tags are perfect for adding a personal touch to your gifts and presents. Made from air dry clay and acrylic paint, they can be customized with your favorite colors and messages.
27. DIY Paper Weights
These adorable gumdrop-shaped paperweights, made from air dry clay, acrylic paint, glossy mod podge, and clear or white glitter, are a total desk goals game changer! They’re perfect for holding down papers on your desk, adding a fun pop of color to your workspace.
JEWELRY
28. Necklace Charms
Create your own unique air dry clay necklace charms with a few simple materials. You’ll need air dry clay, jewelry eye pins, superglue, sandpaper, acrylic paints or markers, and a glossy sealant. With these basics, you can shape, design, and customize your own adorable necklaces!
29. Color Block Earrings
Easily create your own custom earrings with just a few simple materials: air dry clay, E6000 glue, acrylic paints, and a sealant. Perfect for a fun DIY project, you can shape and design your earrings to fit your personal style!
GARDEN
30. Planter
Make a super cute clay balloon planter with just a few simple materials: air dry clay, a balloon concrete sealer, acrylic top coat spray, and cement. Follow the steps to shape, dry, seal, and waterproof your clay planter, making it perfect for indoor or outdoor use. Easy peasy!
31. Herb garden marker
Add a personal touch to your garden with adorable labeled herb markers made from terracotta air clay and stamps. They make a perfect thoughtful gift!
32. Mini Succulent Pots
Make adorable mini succulent pots with air dry clay! Super easy, crazy cute, and perfect for gifting or adding a personal touch to your own plants!
33. DIY Monster Bowls
This one is for all those who take planting seriously and want to take this to another level! Amazingly unique!
34. Plant Propagators
Make adorable plant propagators from air dry terracotta clay. Cut through a glass, poke some holes, and you’ve got a mini nursery for your tiny seedlings or cuttings. These are multipurpose and work great as flower holder and flower frog.
35. Drainage Plate
Make a leaf-shape drainage plate with air dry clay using a fallen leaf as template. Also great as decor item or ring dish.
Amazing air clay projects to inspire your next creative adventure! Now it’s your turn to get creative, experiment with new ideas, and make something truly unique. So, which project will you try first? Grab some air dry clay, get cozy, and let your imagination run wild!
Written by: Sabah Waqas
Reviewed by: Hani Shabbir