how do you get into hand modeling

17 PLAIN AND HASSLE-FREE AIR DRY CLAY PROJECTS FOR YOUR KIDS 

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!

39 LAUNDRY ROOM IDEAS TO OPTIMIZE YOUR SPACE AND EFFICIENCY

I love a well-organized and stylish laundry room. While it’s often overlooked in home design, it’s a space that really deserves attention. Whether you have a separate laundry room or just a laundry closet, there are plenty of ideas to enhance both the space and functionality, making laundry more enjoyable. Curious about how to design your laundry room? This article will give you some tips on how to make the most of it. Read on!

DESIGNING YOUR LAUNDRY ROOM

When designing your laundry room, consider several key factors: optimizing space with smart storage solutions, selecting the right appliances, incorporating natural light and suitable lighting fixtures, and choosing paint and wallpaper to create the right atmosphere.

MAXIMIZING SPACE WITH SMART STORAGE

A key aspect of designing a laundry room is optimizing space with smart storage solutions. This can range from shelves and cabinets to hampers and baskets. By keeping your laundry area organized and free of clutter, you’ll work more efficiently and create a more pleasant environment overall.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT APPLIANCES

Another important factor in designing your laundry room is selecting the right appliances. Opt for energy-efficient machines with features that streamline your laundry routine, such as multiple wash cycles, steam cleaning, and built-in drying racks.

INCORPORATING NATURAL LIGHT AND LIGHTING FIXTURES

Natural light and lighting fixtures are crucial for designing your laundry room. Incorporating ample natural light will create a bright and welcoming space that’s pleasant to work in. Additionally, adding lighting fixtures can help illuminate key areas, such as the folding table or ironing board, enhancing both functionality and ambiance.

SELECTING PAINT AND WALLPAPER FOR ATMOSPHERE

Lastly, choosing the right paint and wallpaper is essential for setting the right mood in your laundry room. Opt for light, neutral colors to establish a calming and serene environment. To introduce some visual interest, consider adding an accent wall or patterned wallpaper for a touch of color and style.

FUNCTIONAL ELEMENTS

As someone who spends a lot of time in the laundry room, I understand the value of having functional elements in this space. Here are some ideas to help you optimize your laundry room and make it work better for you.

THE IMPORTANCE OF A FUNCTIONAL SINK

A functional sink in your laundry room can significantly ease your laundry tasks. It’s useful for pre-treating stains, rinsing clothes, and even filling up your washing machine. Choose a deep sink that can accommodate large items like bedding or pet beds, and consider adding a pull-out faucet for added versatility.

COUNTERTOPS AND COUNTER SPACE

Ample counter space in your laundry room makes sorting and folding clothes easier and provides a convenient spot for storing laundry supplies. Consider installing a countertop above your washer and dryer, or adding a freestanding unit with shelves and drawers. If space is limited, opt for a fold-down countertop that can be stowed away when not in use.

INNOVATIVE DRYING RACK SOLUTIONS

Drying racks are essential for any laundry room, but they can consume valuable space. Opt for a retractable drying rack that extends when needed and retracts when not in use. Alternatively, choose a drying rack that mounts to the wall or ceiling to maximize floor space.

IRONING BOARD AND FOLDING TABLE IDEAS

If you do a lot of ironing or need space for folding clothes, consider adding an ironing board or folding table to your laundry room. A tabletop ironing board that can be easily stored away when not in use is a practical option, or you might install a built-in ironing board that folds down from the wall. Additionally, a folding table can be a valuable addition, offering a space for folding clothes or even working on crafts and hobbies.

By incorporating these functional elements into your laundry room design, you can create a space that is both practical and stylish. With a bit of creativity and planning, you can transform your laundry room into a space that works efficiently for you and your family.

STORAGE AND ORGANIZATION

LAUNDRY BASKETS AND CONTAINERS

Laundry baskets and containers are essential for any laundry room. They help keep dirty clothes off the floor and make transporting laundry to and from the washer and dryer more convenient. When selecting baskets and containers, consider the size of your laundry room and your laundry needs. A small basket may suffice for an individual, while a larger family might require multiple baskets or a larger container.

For storing laundry supplies like detergent and fabric softener, opt for clear containers. This not only keeps your supplies organized but also makes it easy to monitor when you’re running low.

CREATIVE USE OF VERTICAL SPACE

If you’re lacking floor space, utilize your vertical space for storage. Wall-mounted shelves, cabinets, and drying racks can help maximize your laundry room’s functionality. Also, consider the area above your washer and dryer; installing a shelf or cabinet in this spot can offer additional storage without using up valuable floor space.

CABINETS AND SHELVING OPTIONS

Cabinets and shelves are among the most popular solutions for adding storage to a laundry room. Cabinets are ideal for concealing cleaning supplies and other items, while shelves offer easy access to frequently used essentials. For a cohesive look, built-in cabinets and shelves are a great choice, but freestanding options can also be effective.

When selecting cabinets and shelves, consider the size of your laundry room and your storage needs. Open shelving is well-suited for smaller spaces, providing accessible storage without bulk. In larger rooms or when you need to conceal clutter, cabinets are a better option.

AESTHETICS AND DECOR

CHOOSING A COLOR SCHEME

When choosing a color scheme for your laundry room, I suggest selecting colors that harmonize with the rest of your home’s interior. Neutral tones like white, beige, and gray are always a reliable choice, but you can also introduce a pop of color with a bold accent wall or vibrant accessories.

ADDING PERSONALITY WITH ACCESSORIES

Accessories are an excellent way to infuse personality into your laundry room. Consider adding a rug for texture or a decorative basket for storing laundry supplies. Wall art and decorative signs can also bring character and charm to the space.

FLOORING AND TILING OPTIONS

When selecting flooring and tiling options, prioritize durability and ease of maintenance. Ceramic or porcelain tiles are excellent choices for both floors and walls because they’re easy to clean and can handle heavy foot traffic. Vinyl flooring is another great option; it’s affordable, easy to install, and available in a wide range of styles and colors.

DECORATIVE ELEMENTS AND PLANTS

Incorporating decorative elements and plants into your laundry room can make the space feel more inviting and less like a chore. Consider adding a small shelf or cabinet to display decor or a plant to introduce greenery and fresh air. You can also hang a curtain or use a decorative screen to conceal laundry supplies and add a touch of privacy.

SPECIAL FEATURES AND IDEAS

MUDROOM INTEGRATION

I absolutely love the concept of incorporating a mudroom into a laundry room. It adds both practicality and a touch of rustic charm. By including a bench, hooks, and cubbies, you can create a dedicated space for storing shoes, coats, and bags. This integration not only enhances organization but also keeps your laundry room tidy and clutter-free.

INNOVATIVE DOOR SOLUTIONS

If space is limited, opt for barn doors or sliding doors instead of traditional hinged ones. They save space and bring a modern flair to your laundry room. Plus, you can select from various styles and materials to perfectly complement your decor.

CREATING A MULTIPURPOSE SPACE

Your laundry room can serve more than just a place to wash clothes. With some creativity, you can turn it into a multipurpose space that functions as a home office, craft room, or even a pet grooming station. Adding a desk, shelves, and extra storage can transform your laundry room into a versatile area that meets all your needs.

ECO-FRIENDLY AND SUSTAINABLE OPTIONS

If you want to make your laundry room more eco-friendly, there are plenty of choices available. Start by using energy-efficient appliances and installing low-flow faucets to reduce your carbon footprint and save on utility bills. Additionally, you can incorporate sustainable materials like bamboo flooring or recycled glass countertops to give your laundry room an eco-conscious touch.

REMODELING AND UPGRADING

While researching laundry room ideas, I discovered that many people are eager to remodel and upgrade their laundry spaces. Whether you’re looking to make your laundry room more modern, practical, or simply more visually appealing, there are plenty of options to choose from.

WHEN TO CONSULT AN INTERIOR DESIGNER

If you’re thinking about remodeling your laundry room, consulting with an interior designer could be a great investment. They can help you create a space that’s both functional and stylish by selecting the right colors, materials, and layout. Additionally, they can recommend practical storage solutions to make your laundry routine more efficient.

UPGRADING FOR EFFICIENCY AND VALUE

Enhancing your laundry room can also boost your home’s value. Installing energy-efficient appliances, like a front-loading washer and dryer, not only saves on utility bills but also makes your laundry routine more eco-friendly. Adding extra storage, such as cabinets or shelves, increases the functionality and organization of the space, further adding value to your home.

DIY PROJECTS AND IDEAS

If you’re seeking a budget-friendly upgrade for your laundry room, consider various DIY projects. A fresh coat of paint, a new light fixture, or an updated backsplash can easily transform the space without breaking the bank. Additionally, incorporating practical storage solutions like a hanging rod or folding table can enhance the efficiency of your laundry routine.

CONCLUSION

Remodeling and upgrading your laundry room can be a fun and rewarding endeavor. Whether you decide to work with an interior designer or take on the project yourself, there are countless options to help you create a space that’s both practical and aesthetically pleasing.