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Air-Dry Clay Key Dish
Age: 10–12 years · Time: 45 min + 1–2 days to dry · Level: Medium
A dish for keys, paper clips or small treasures. The print of a real leaf makes every dish one of a kind.
Materials
- about 250 g (9 oz) white air-dry clay
- parchment paper
- rolling pin or a round bottle
- a small plate, about 12 cm (5 inches) across, to use as a guide
- dull knife or clay tool
- a fall leaf with clear veins
- a small bowl and plastic wrap
- a cup of water
- fine sandpaper
- acrylic paint and a brush
- water-based clear sealer (optional)
Steps
- Work on parchment paper. Knead the clay until it is soft.
- Roll the clay out to a slab about 5 mm (1/4 inch) thick.
- Place the small plate on the clay and cut around it with the dull knife.
- Smooth the edge with a wet finger.
- Press the leaf onto the clay, veins down, roll over it lightly and gently peel the leaf off.
- Line the small bowl with plastic wrap and set the clay circle inside so it gets a curved shape.
- Let it dry at room temperature for 1–2 days (see the package). Turn it over when the top is dry.
- Sand the edge lightly, then paint it and add sealer if you like.
Safety for grown-ups
Clay is not food – wash your hands afterward. Sand gently so it does not get dusty. Use sealer in a room with fresh air, together with an adult. The dish is for decoration and small things, not for food.