Whether you’re searching for easy crafts to enjoy with your kids after school or on weekends, or seeking DIY art projects that can serve as keepsakes and gifts for family and friends, this collection of air dry clay projects is sure to impress. From pinch pots and trinket dishes to coasters, keychains, photo holders, and magnets, there are countless creations you can make with air dry clay without the kneading and baking required for traditional clay crafts. Can’t find air dry clay at your local craft store? No problem! We’ve also included a simple DIY recipe that uses just three ingredients!
WHAT IS AIR DRY CLAY?
Air dry clay is a type of modeling clay that hardens naturally when exposed to air. Unlike traditional pottery clay, which requires firing in a kiln, air dry clay can be sculpted and dried at room temperature. Once dry, it becomes firm and durable, making it suitable for a variety of projects.
HOW TO MAKE HOMEMADE AIR DRY CLAY
Making your own air dry clay is incredibly simple and requires just three ingredients:
- 1 cup baking soda
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1 ½ cups water
Once you have your ingredients ready, follow these steps to create your very own air dry clay:
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a saucepan, combine the baking soda and cornstarch, ensuring they are well mixed.
- Add Water: Pour the water into the mixture and stir until everything is fully combined with no dry spots remaining.
- Heat the Mixture: Turn your burner on to low-medium heat. Stir the mixture continuously until it forms a ball, which may take up to 10 minutes.
- Achieve Clay Consistency: Once it forms a ball, turn off the burner and keep stirring until the mixture takes on a clay-like consistency.
- Prepare for Kneading: Remove the mixture from the pot and place it on a countertop or large cutting board lightly dusted with cornstarch.
- Knead the Dough: Knead the dough until it cools. If the clay is too sticky, add more cornstarch to achieve a firmer texture that’s easier to manipulate.
Note: As the clay cools and dries, it will become less sticky, making it easier to work with.
Enjoy your crafting!
AIR DRY CLAY PROJECT SUPPLIES
Before diving into the air dry clay projects for kids listed below, consider investing in a few supplies to help your little ones bring their creations to life. Here are some of our top recommendations!
- Rolling pin
- Textured rolling pins
- Sculpting and shaping tools
- Number and alphabet stamps
- Rubber stampers
- Paint brushes
- Acrylic paints
17 AIR DRY CLAY PROJECTS FOR KIDS
Whether you’re using store-bought air dry clay or trying out the homemade recipe above, here are some of our favorite air dry clay projects for kids that make meaningful gifts and keepsakes!
- Air Dry Clay Sunflower Bowls | Emma Owl
- Purrfectly Cute Air Dry Cats | Nurture Store
- Pinch Pot Snow Person | Make It Your Own
- Kids’ Hand Ceramic Dish | My Poppet Makes
- Easter Egg Pinch Pots | Red Ted Art
- Air Dry Clay Texture Bead Pendant | The Kitchen Table Classroom
- Air Dry Clay Keychains | Average But Inspired
- Air Dry Clay Mini Pots | Journey Into Creativity
- Clay Unicorn Magnets | Glued To My Crafts
- Mini Clay Halloween Pumpkins | Sculpd
- DIY Air Dry Clay Wall Hanging | Kara Madeline
- Clay Mountain Photo Holder | Doodle & Stitch
- Air Dry Clay Ornaments | Little Yellow Wheelbarrow
- Whale Phone Holder | Doodle & Stitch
- Mandala Trinket Dish | Colorful Craft Corner
- Air Dry Clay Snails | Hobby Craft
- Air Dry Clay Tiles | Polymer Clay
I hope you and your little one enjoy this delightful collection of air dry clay projects!
CONCLUSION
Air dry clay offers a fun and creative outlet for kids of all ages. With its versatility and ease of use, it’s a great way to spark imagination, develop fine motor skills, and boost self-esteem. From simple crafts to intricate sculptures, the possibilities are endless. Whether you’re looking for a rainy day activity or a long-term project, air dry clay is a fantastic choice. So gather your supplies, get creative, and enjoy the joy of crafting with your children!
