Tutorial: Air Dry Clay Projects Using Kmart Clay

As with most air dry clay projects… these work just as well with oven baked polymer clay. I was looking for little holiday houses to use for the upcoming Christmas holidays and this one was just the thing. The original tutorial is in Spanish but a button to translate into English (or, the language of your preference) shows up when I load the page. The house tutorial is towards the end of the page.

Why the end of the page? Because there are two other good, useful tutorials ahead of it to try out.

On the house tutorial part of the writing suggests forming the walls ahead of placing the roof tiles. With oven bake clay I would also use a combo of thing white strips of clay and liquid clay to stick the roof to the building parts. I would also likely do the initial tiles and house parts separately – bake all of the panels – and then use plain clay and liquid clay to join the parts. I’d prop everything with scrunched paper or foil for the final bake so nothing warps.

For a light either a very small votive candle or one of the little fake LED candles which is what I have in mind.

Looking for air-drying clay? We highly recommend Das Air dry clay, we have been using this product for over 30 years. Check out their Das White Air drying clay and their Terracotta Air drying clay version for a natural pottery feel. For larger crafts we recommend buying your air drying clay in bulk . If you are in Australia Kmart Air drying clay is also great for beginners.

Are you looking for a creative and unique way to spruce up your Christmas tree this year? Air dry clay Christmas ornaments are a great option! Not only are they easy to make and customize, but they look beautiful and elegant, too.

Plus, they’re much more affordable than traditional glass or plastic ornaments. All you need is some air dry clay, a rolling pin, and a few cookie cutters to get started. You can roll out the clay, cut out shapes with the cookie cutters, and let them air dry overnight.

Once they’re dry, you can paint them in any color or pattern you like. You can even make personalized ornaments with names or special messages written on them. And when you’re done, you can hang them on your tree for years to come. So if you’re looking for a unique and beautiful way to decorate your tree this year, look no further than air dry clay Christmas ornaments.

If you’ve ever wanted to dip your toes into clay crafts without the fuss of a kiln, air dry clay is your new best friend. It’s affordable, easy to work with, and dries beautifully into something that looks much fancier than it really is. These DIY stamped clay pots are the perfect weekend project. They’re practical, pretty, and make wonderful handmade gifts. Think pen holders, plant pots, or even a little bathroom organizer for makeup brushes.

Why You’ll Love This Project

No kiln or oven required – just let the clay dry naturally.
Endless design possibilities with stamps, lace, or texture mats.
A chic way to organize your desk, vanity, or craft room.
Great gift idea (fill with treats, pens, or a little succulent).

Supplies You’ll Need

Air-dry clay (white or terracotta works best)
Rolling pin (or a smooth glass bottle)
Stamps, lace, or textured rolling pins for designs
Craft knife or clay cutter
Water and a small paintbrush (for smoothing seams)
Cylinder form (a glass, tin can, or jar to shape the pot)
Sandpaper (fine grit, for finishing)
Optional: acrylic paints or clear sealant

Step-by-Step Tutorial

Step 1: Roll Out the Clay

Sprinkle a little cornstarch on your surface so the clay doesn’t stick. Roll your clay into a flat slab about ¼ inch thick. Keep it even so your pot doesn’t dry lopsided.

Step 2: Add the Texture

Now for the fun part! Press your stamp, lace, or textured roller firmly into the clay. Don’t worry about perfection—slight variations give it that handmade charm.

Step 3: Cut Your Rectangle

Measure your cylinder (jar, can, or glass) and cut a rectangle of clay that will wrap all the way around it. Cut out a circle of clay for the base.

Step 4: Build the Pot

Wrap the clay rectangle around your form and gently press the seam together. Use a little water and a paintbrush to smooth it out. Attach the circular base with the same water “glue” method, blending the edges for strength.

Step 5: Smooth & Shape

Run damp fingers along the rim and seams to soften rough edges. This is where your pot starts looking polished.

Step 6: Drying Time

Let your pot air dry for 24–48 hours (depending on the clay brand and thickness). Don’t rush this step—if the clay dries too quickly, it can crack.

Step 7: Sand & Finish

Once dry, lightly sand any rough spots. You can leave it raw white for a chic, minimal look, or paint/seal it with acrylic paints and clear varnish for extra durability.

Creative Ideas for Stamped Clay Pots

Boho Vibes: Use lace doilies for a soft, romantic texture.
Rustic Look: Try a wooden stamp or burlap fabric pressed into the clay.
Modern Minimalist: Leave the pot smooth and paint it matte black or terracotta.
Giftable Touch: Wrap with twine and tuck in a small succulent.

Tips

Keep unused clay wrapped tightly in plastic so it doesn’t dry out.
If cracks appear, fill with a little clay slip (clay mixed with water).
Don’t make your pots too tall or thin—the clay is stronger in compact shapes.

These DIY air dry clay pots prove that you don’t need a pottery wheel to create beautiful handmade pieces. Whether you use them for storage, décor, or gifting, each one turns out unique—just like handmade should be.

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