How to Make a Simple Clay Vase for a Child

Simple clay vases allow flowers to be the focus of attention.

Lined up on a window sill or along a mantel, simple clay vases can make a colorful display that will coordinate with all kinds of decor. Whether you make them yourself for a child, or together, you can paint and decorate them to keep for yourself or give out as gifts. They make ideal gifts for teachers at the end of term.

Things You'll Need

• Polymer clay

Instructions

1. Roll the clay into a ball. You can either roll the clay between your palms, or roll it in circles on a firm surface.

2. Push your thumb into the top of the clay ball to make a hole. Leave your thumb in the hole.

3. Pinch the sides of the clay between your thumb and fingers to flatten and press out the sides. Work carefully all around the clay ball, squeezing and gently pulling the clay, turning the clay after each pinch.

4. Shape the clay into a tall vase shape by continuing to work it between your fingers and thumb. When it is as tall as you want, press the base gently down on the firm surface to flatten it.

5. Smooth the outside of the clay with either your fingers or with the flat side of a spoon. Bake the clay in the oven, and follow the manufacturers directions for both baking time and temperature.

6. Decorate the cooled vase by painting it with acrylic paints, or by gluing on strips of ribbon around the top and bottom. Fill the vase with paper flowers. If you want to fill it with real flowers, test it first to see if it is water tight.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure the clay is warm and soft before trying to shape it. Very young children might need help with conditioning the clay, and also with starting the pinching process.