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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.

Air-Dry Clay Key Dish

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

  1. Work on parchment paper. Knead the clay until it is soft.
  2. Roll the clay out to a slab about 5 mm (1/4 inch) thick.
  3. Place the small plate on the clay and cut around it with the dull knife.
  4. Smooth the edge with a wet finger.
  5. Press the leaf onto the clay, veins down, roll over it lightly and gently peel the leaf off.
  6. Line the small bowl with plastic wrap and set the clay circle inside so it gets a curved shape.
  7. Let it dry at room temperature for 1–2 days (see the package). Turn it over when the top is dry.
  8. 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.