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Clay is a material with many possibilities. From pottery to sculpture to jewelry, it can be manipulated to create a variety of different forms. However, you don’t need access to a kiln to start working with this material. Air-dry clay is a type of clay that can be manipulated while still moist, and be left out to dry when finished. Most of the time, it will be ready to go within a day or two.
Need some ideas to help you get started? We’ve put together a list of different things you can make with air-dry clay. These DIY projects range from beginner-level pinch pots to more intricate snake earrings, so you’re sure to find a craft that sparks an interest. Plus, once you’re done sculpting, you can have more fun painting over your finished pieces.
Scroll down to see some air-dry clay ideas and the best air-dry clays to turn those ideas into realities.
Air Dry Clay Ideas
Pinch Pots
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Paint Palette
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Candle Holders
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Paintbrush Holder
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Hand-Stamped Plate
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Geometric Pendant
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Pencil Cup
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Heart-Shaped Jewelry Dish
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Incense Holder
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Snake Earrings
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Flower
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5 Best Air-Dry Clay
Amaco Marblex Clay
Amaco | $14.38
Whether you’re a beginner sculptor or have experience, Amaco Marblex is a great choice. This high-quality clay can be reworked as long as it remains moist. After it’s dry and coated with a sealant, it can be painted over with acrylic paints.
Activa La Doll premier Air Dry Clay
La Doll | $13.09
La Doll is the ideal air-dry clay for fine detail work, such as jewelry, sculptures, and, of course, dolls. It can adhere to other materials like wire mesh, and be worked indefinitely if kept moist. Additionally, this clay can be carved, drilled, or sanded once dry.
Aves Apoxie Clay
Aves | $25.50
Apoxie clay combines the features of sculpting clay with the adhesive power of epoxy. Due to this, it is an excellent medium for sculpture, assemblage art, stamping, and more.
Creative Paperclay
Paperclay | $8.91
Creative Paperclay can be molded into a variety of objects, such as delicate jewelry, detailed dolls, sculptures, wall hangings, pots, and more. When it’s dry, it can also be painted with tempera, watercolor, acrylic enamel, or even markers.
Sculpey Air Dy Modeling Clay
Sculpey | $6.79
Lightweight and durable, it’s no wonder that Sculpey clay is a favorite for many DIY projects. It is completely pliable when opened and dries completely within 24 hours.
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