MY FIRST ATTEMPT

So, here’s how I started my foray into DIY homeware. I started saving screenshots of home accessories I liked and searched Pinterest for ceramics and other pottery to see which styles I could try with air dry clay. It only costs £4, it dries within 24-72 hours and you can get it in white so it’s easy to paint.

For my first attempt I made six little candle holders and vases with the 1kg of air dry clay. As soon as you open the clay it’s best to pull off the amount you need and close the bag (it starts to dry as soon as the air hits it). Next, knead the ball you’ve pulled out in your hands for a couple of minutes to make it slightly softer – this makes it easier to shape. I haven’t got any pictures of me making these ones as I didn’t know I would love them as much as I do.

Once the clay has been shaped into your desired DIY item (candle holder? vase? the world is your oyster) and smoothed, leave them out to dry on grease proof paper. This is vital, you really don’t want them to stick to the chopping board, trust me. Leave them to dry for around 48 hours and, once dry to the touch (you’ll also see they change from a greyish colour to white), they can be painted.

I used acrylic paint (from eBay, here) because they give a bold strong colour. If you want a softer finish you could use watercolour paint or for streak-free you can also try spray paint. Add candles or wild flowers to your new creations, sit back and admire.

DIY home hack: how to make your own vase and candle holders out of air dry clay