Looking for a thoughtful handmade gift or a stylish way to store your jewelry? This air dry clay jewelry dish is a fun and creative project that’s perfect for beginners and clay lovers alike.
With minimal materials and plenty of room for personalization, it’s the kind of DIY that blends form, function, and charm.
Why This Plan Works
- No kiln or oven needed—just air dry clay
- Great for personalized gifting
- Beginner-friendly and budget-conscious
- Easily customizable with texture, color, and patterns
- Doubles as a catchall dish for keys, coins, or bedside essentials
What You Will Need
- Air dry clay
- A bowl to shape the dish
- Stamps or textured materials for designs
- Rolling pin
- Sharp knife
- Sandpaper
- Paints or paint pens (optional)
Step 1: Roll Out the Clay
Start by taking a ball of air dry clay that’s large enough to form a small dish. Flatten it evenly using a rolling pin until it’s around 1/4 inch thick. Make sure the surface is smooth and even.
Step 2: Cut the Dish Shape
Place your chosen bowl upside down on the flattened clay. Using a knife, carefully cut around the bowl to create a perfect circular shape. This cut-out will form the base of your jewelry dish.
Step 3: Add Texture and Personal Touches
Now’s the time to get creative. Use a paisley stamp or any other textured material—doilies, corrugated cardboard, or even a coffee cup sleeve—to gently press designs into the clay. Want to make it extra special? Write a name or message into the clay using a stylus or toothpick.
Step 4: Shape in the Bowl and Let It Dry
Gently press the textured clay circle into your bowl. Mold it to fit the inner curve snugly. Leave it in the bowl and allow it to dry completely—this usually takes four to five days. Be patient: removing it too early can crack or warp the dish.
Once it’s dry, turn the bowl upside down and tap gently to release the dish. If it sticks, slide a knife carefully between the edges and the bowl to loosen it.
Note: Don’t rush the drying process. Let the dish sit undisturbed until fully hardened to avoid any damage during removal.
Step 5: Smooth and Paint
Use sandpaper to gently smooth any rough edges or uneven surfaces around the rim. Wipe off the dust with a cloth.
Now comes the fun part—painting! We chose a metallic gold paint for the inside and added a chevron pattern with a paint pen on the outside. You can choose any color or design that fits your style.
Want to go the extra mile? Finish your dish with a clear sealant for added protection and a polished look. Let it dry completely before using.
Step 6: Put It to Use
Your handmade jewelry dish is now ready! Use it to organize rings, earrings, or small accessories. It also works perfectly as a catchall for keys or coins in your entryway, or by your nightstand to hold everyday essentials.
Other Details Display
- Clay type: Air dry clay
- Stamp design: Paisley (or textured materials like doilies or cardboard)
- Paint details: Gold interior, chevron pattern exterior
- Dry time: 4–5 days
- Sealant: Optional, for added durability
- Functionality: Jewelry dish, catchall tray, personalized gift
Summary
This air dry clay jewelry dish is a simple and customizable project perfect for gifting or decorating your home. With just a few materials and a bit of creativity, you can create a beautiful, functional piece that reflects your personal touch.
This plan is a contribution by [Vikalpah]. Project Via Instructables – Get the PDF Instructions here.