How Do You Make Ornaments Out Of Modeling Clay?

Modeling clay, also known as sculpting clay or polymer clay, is a versatile crafting material that can be shaped and hardened to create all kinds of decorative objects and arts and crafts projects. Modeling clay differs from typical play clays because it air dries hard and retains its shape, allowing artists to craft durable, detailed sculptures and figures.

Polymer clay such as Sculpey doesn’t require any baking or firing to harden. It simply air dries through a process called “curing”. This makes it a very popular choice for making ornaments, charms, beads and other objects that can be used for display, gifting or jewelry pieces.

Using modeling clay is an easy, fun way to handcraft custom holiday ornaments. In this beginner tutorial, we will walk through all the steps to make basic round ball ornaments and give tips for getting creative with different shapes and adding details. With just some simple clay manipulation and a few extra touches, you can have a batch of unique handmade ornaments to add that personal touch to your next tree or gift project.

Gather Materials

Before starting your clay ornament project, you’ll need to gather these supplies:

• Polymer clay in your choice of colors
• Clay sculpting tools like a roller, texture mat, cookie cutters, or sculpting picks
• Acrylic paints if painting the ornament
• Paint brushes
• Clear acrylic sealer or glaze
• Embellishments like beads, glitter, ribbon etc. (optional)
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Make sure your workspace is clean and you have all materials on hand before starting your clay ornament project.

Prepare the Clay

Gather the modeling clay or polymer that you want to use for the ornament. Kneading the clay is essential to soften and condition it before creating the shapes. If the clay is too stiff and hard, the details and textures will be more difficult to carve and add. After softening the clay, you can wet your hands occasionally if it feels sticky.

Before sculpting the shape of the ornament, dust your work surface with a light coating of cornstarch or flour. This will prevent the clay from sticking to the surface as you maneuver it into different positions. Wipe off any excess powder that accumulates during the process so it does not get mixed into the clay.

Shape the Ornament

Once you have prepared your clay by kneading it and softening it with your hands, you can begin shaping it into an ornament. Start by rolling the clay into a smooth ball. Make sure there are no cracks or crevices.

Next, use a variety of tools to shape the clay into your desired ornament design. Clay cutters shaped like stars, trees, snowflakes and more are readily available and make imprinting designs easy. Simply press your clay ball into the cutter to transfer the shape.

You can also use Christmas themed mold presses to add designs like bells, wreaths or bows. Gently press the soft clay into the mold, being careful not to tear the clay. Slowly peel away the mold to reveal your detailed ornament shape.

If you don’t have any cutters or molds, shape the ornament using your hands. Carefully pinch and pull areas of the clay ball to make simple round globe ornaments. Or, roll pieces of clay into logs, balls or teardrops and carefully attach them to the main clay ball to create unique organic ornament shapes.

Refine Details

Once you’ve shaped your ornament, you can refine details by adding patterns and texture. If making a round ball ornament, gently press designs into the surface with tools like toothpicks, skewers, or clay tools. For example, you could make polka dots, swirls, lines, or any patterns you desire. For geometric shapes, add texture by stippling the surface with a sculpting tool.

Additionally, attach any parts needed like loops, caps, or hooks while the clay is still soft. To make a loop, roll a thin snake of clay and form into a circle, pressing the ends together. Use a toothpick to carve a hole at the top of the ornament, then insert the loop. Secure in place by blending the seam with your finger. This ensures a way to hang the finished ornament after baking.

Dry the Ornament

After shaping your ornament, you’ll need to let it dry completely before painting or handling much.

The easiest drying method is to simply let your clay ornament air dry. Place it on a flat surface like a baking sheet or plate in a warm, dry area out of direct sunlight. Allow 1-2 days for thorough drying.

You can speed up the drying if needed by baking the ornament. Place it on an oven-safe surface and bake at 225°F for 10-15 minutes per 1/4 inch thickness. Check regularly and stop baking when hardened to avoid over-baking. Allow to fully cool before handling.

Once completely dry, the modeling clay will have a matte appearance and feel harder to the touch. At this stage, it’s ready for painting and decorating!

Paint the Ornament

Once your modeling clay ornament has fully dried and hardened, you can begin painting it. The recommended paint for painting modeling clay ornaments is acrylic paint. Acrylic paints bond extremely well to hardened air-dry clay and provide vibrant colors. Make sure to apply an acrylic sealer over the ornament before you begin painting. This will help create a protective layer and smooth finish for the paint to adhere to.

Apply at least 2-3 thin coats of acrylic sealer, allowing it to dry completely between coats. Once the sealer has dried, use acrylic craft paints in the colors of your choice to paint your ornament. Use a small detail brush for precise lines and color control. Allow the paint to fully dry between coats. You can add details with metallic paint pens once the acrylic paint has dried as well. Finish off by applying another protective coat of acrylic sealer over the painted ornament.

Seal and Protect

Once your painted clay ornament is dry, seal it with a water-based acrylic sealer or varnish. This helps to protect your hard work and lock in the paint. Paint can chip off over time if left unsealed.

Choose a sealant designed for craft use. Look for products labeled non-toxic and safe for all ages if gifting ornaments to children. A glossy finish often shines best on clay.

To apply, take the ornament and varnish outside or in a well-ventilated area. Follow the product instructions for application steps and recommended varnish coats.

Allow the sealer to fully dry and cure, usually at least 24 hours between coats. This ensures it has time to adhere properly and harden to achieve an even protective layer over the ornament’s surface. The ornament is then sealed and ready to hang for display.

Add Embellishments

Embellishments can make your modeling clay ornaments pop and give them extra dimension or visual interest. Here are some popular embellishments to consider adding:

Glitter – Glitter gives ornaments a lovely sparkle and shine. You can apply fine glitter while the sealant or varnish coat is still wet so the glitter sticks. Coarse glitter can be glued on after the sealant has dried. Use craft glitter or sprinkle your ornament in a tray of extra fine glitter. Ensure any loose glitter is tapped off before the final coat of sealant.

Beads – Small plastic or glass seed beads can make beautiful additions, especially arranged in patterns or borders. Again, apply after the sealant has dried using a strong craft glue. Wood and metal beads also work nicely for a different look and texture.

Ribbon – Ribbons and raffia add texture and color. Cut the desired length and leave the ends out as danglers or curls, or glue or tie them around the ornament as a hanger. Narrow ribbon is especially nice for minimalist designs.

Other embellishments like small buttons, rhinestone stickers, feathers, or charms can add flair as well. The options for customizing your ornament are endless, so experiment and have fun choosing additions that appeal the most!

Display the Finished Ornament

After putting so much effort into creating a unique clay ornament, you’ll want to display it properly so it can be admired and enjoyed. Here are some tips for displaying your finished ornament:

Hang on the Tree or Give as a Gift

One of the best parts of making your own clay ornament is getting to hang it from the branches of your Christmas tree. Place it front and center so everyone can see your handiwork. You can also tie ribbon around it to give it as a special handmade gift to a loved one.

Store Properly to Preserve

After the holiday season is over, make sure to store your ornament properly so you can display it again next year. Wrap it carefully in tissue paper and place it in a storage container where it won’t get crushed or damaged over time. Handmade ornaments become keepsakes to last for years to come with proper care.