DIY Air Dry Clay Paperweights.
/Transform ordinary stones into beautiful DIY Air Dry Clay Paperweights! This easy craft uses stamped clay textures to create unique handmade desk accessories that are perfect for home décor, gifts, and organising loose papers.
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DIY Clay Paperweights.
Looking for an easy air dry clay project that's both beautiful and practical? These DIY air dry clay paperweights are a simple craft that transforms ordinary stones into decorative home accessories.
Using a few smooth pebbles, some air dry clay, and a patterned stamp, you can create elegant paperweights that look like handmade ceramics.
Related: Air Dry Clay Tips And Tricks
Supplies:
Stones or Pebbles
Small Bowl of Water
Decorative Stamps (these ones)
Craft knife
Fine Sandpaper (optional)
Clear Sealer or Varnish (optional)
How To Make Air Dry Clay Paperweights.
1. Take a piece of air dry clay and knead it until soft and pliable. Roll it out large enough to wrap around your chosen stone.
2. Place the stone in the centre of the clay and carefully wrap the clay around it.
3. Use small pieces of clay to patch up any gaps and smooth any joins with some more water.
Don't worry if the clay isn't perfectly smooth at this stage.
4. Use your fingers to press the seams together and trim away any excess clay.
5. Continue smoothing until the stone is completely covered.
6. Dip your fingers into a small bowl of water and gently smooth the clay. The water helps blend the seams.
7. Once you're happy with the shape, gently press a decorative stamp into the clay.
8. Work your way around the paperweight, overlapping the impressions slightly to create an all-over pattern.
9. Place your paperweights on a flat surface and allow them to dry.
Depending on the thickness of your clay, this can take anywhere from 24 to 72 hours. Make sure to turn them over so the bottoms have a chance to dry as well.
I left these to dry on a windowsill for around 4/5 days; the smaller one dried much faster than the larger ones.
When the air dry clay dries, it changes from an off white/grey colour to a matte, white finish, so you should be able to tell when it's completely dry.
You can leave the paperweights natural for a soft matte finish or paint them with white acrylic paint for a cleaner look.
A coat of Clear Sealer or Varnish will help protect the surface and keep them looking their best.
