How to Make a Clay Christmas Ornament

These clay Christmas ornaments are a great way to introduce kids to pottery while allowing them to develop their artistic side. Using some common materials from around the house, you and your kids can make ornaments to hang on the family tree year after year.

Things You'll Need

• Flour
• Salt
• Water
• Mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Christmas cookie cutters
• Toothpick
• Non-stick baking sheet
• Ribbon or ornament hook
• Acrylic craft paint
• Clear acrylic sealer
• Paintbrushes

Instructions

1. Combine 4 cups flour, 1 cup of salt and 1½ cups of water together in a mixing bowl. Knead until the clay is smooth.

2. Place clay on a clean surface. Use the rolling pin to roll the clay to ¼ inch thick.

3. Press the cookie cutters into the clay. Use the toothpick to make a hole on the top of each shape. Make the hole large enough for your ribbon or hook to fit through.

4. Put the ornaments on the non-stick baking sheet and bake at 300 degrees for 30 minutes to 1 hour or until ornament is set. Let the ornament cool completely.

5. Use the paintbrush and acrylic craft paint to decorate your ornament. Allow the ornament to dry, then put a coat of clear acrylic sealer on it.

6. String the ribbon or ornament hook through the hole and hang on your tree.

Tips & Warnings

• You can store the clay in an airtight container until you are ready to make the ornaments.

• Store baked ornaments in a dry place.