How to Use Clay to Make a Toad House

Toads will enjoy making a home inside a clay toad house.

If you notice that you have a few frogs and toads in your garden, you can invite these harmless guests to make a permanent home by setting out a clay toad house. Although you can buy a clay toad house at any garden supply store, they can sometimes be costly. One solution is to make your own toad house using a few basic craft materials that can be found at an art supply store.

Things You'll Need

• One pound of terra cotta clay
• Rolling pin
• Bowl
• Clay knife
• Kiln

Instructions

1. Knead the clay for five minutes to remove any trapped air bubbles.

2. Place a medium bowl upside down onto a table top

3. Roll the clay out into a 1/2-inch thick sheet.

4. Drape the clay over the bowl, then use your fingers to mold it to the bowl's form.

5. Cut out a doorway from the form, using a clay knife.

6. Allow the clay dome to dry completely.

7. Remove the dried dome from the bowl, and fire it in a kiln. Once fired, you can place the toad house in your garden.

References

• Wildlife Gardeners: Clay Pot Toad Abode