DIY Clay Jewelry Dish
I’m always working with my hands, so my rings come off countless times a day. Making a clay jewelry dish takes only a few minutes, and it’s a gorgeous way to ensure your rings, earrings, and necklaces don’t get lost.
I made clay dishes with pressed flowers, but you can decorate these bowls in countless ways. In this budget-friendly tutorial, you’ll learn how to create a DIY ring dish from clay to enjoy or give as gifts.
This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. For more information, please see my disclosures.
What type of clay should I use for a jewelry dish?
I used air dry clay for this project, but you can also use oven-bake clay like FIMO or Sculpey (polymer clay). Air dry clay is softer to work with but takes a few days to dry naturally, whereas you can make polymer clay bowls in just a couple of hours. What’s the tradeoff?
Polymer clay has a more rubbery texture after baking and requires multiple packages of colored clay if you want a multi-colored bowl. It’s still possible to paint polymer clay, but you typically only add paint as an accent.
Air dry clay tends to look more like porcelain or terracotta (depending on the color you buy). I prefer using white clay since I can paint the dish any color and add fine accents like pressed flowers. I’ve also used napkins to decoupage air dry clay, which you can see in this video.
How to Make a Clay Jewelry Dish
Supplies
- Air dry clay (white or terracotta)
- Sculpting knife
- Acrylic rolling pin or glass jar
- Cookie cutters or round dish
- Small bowl
- Sandpaper (optional)
- Pressed flowers (optional)
- Mod Podge or acid-free glue
- Acrylic paint (optional)
Tip: Protecting Your Work Surface
I love using these silicone mats when sculpting with clay. You can also use parchment paper, wax paper, or a clear acrylic cutting board with a smooth surface to protect your work area.
Instructions
- Roll the air-dry clay into a ball on a flat surface like a mat or acrylic board.
- Smoosh the ball of clay down using a rolling pin or glass bottle. As you roll out the clay, you may need to add water to keep the clay smooth and pliable. Continue rolling out the clay until it reaches about 1/8 inch thickness.
- Use a round object like a lid to cut a circle shape in the flattened clay using an X-Acto knife or clay knife tool. (Get the kids involved too!) Place the excess clay back in the package for a future project.
- Smooth the edges of the bowl with your fingertips, adding moisture if needed.
Tip: Storing Excess Clay
With air-dry clay, it’s important to seal any unused portion of clay in an air-tight container or food storage bag. You can make one clay package last many months by keeping it sealed.
- Carefully place the clay in a shallow bowl or ramekin. Use a piece of plastic wrap in between to prevent sticking, and let the dish dry naturally for 2-3 days.
- If needed, sand the edges of the clay ring dishes for a smoother texture.
- To add a touch of glam, paint the underside and rim of your dish with gold paint.
- If desired, add pressed flowers to decorate the inside of the trays. You can use Mod Podge in a matte or glossy finish to attach the pressed flowers with a small paint brush. Add a top coat of Mod Podge as well to seal the project.
You can easily learn how to press flowers like the pansies you see above, or you can buy pressed flowers online. I have plenty of pressed flower crafts to inspire you on your journey if you decide to make your own.
Tips for Success
- Always keep your clay moist when kneading it. Have a container of water handy to moisten your fingertips while sculpting.
- Flip the clay bowl over after about a day and half to help it dry on both sides more quickly.
- To get an even thickness in your clay, place two wooden stir sticks on either side of the clay as you roll it out.
I hope you enjoy making a DIY clay jewelry dish this year! This trinket dish is perfect for holding small items like rings on a bedside table or kitchen counter. You can make several bowls in different color combinations to give as DIY gifts around the holidays too.
Pin it for later!
For more clay crafts, visit my tutorials below or check out my YouTube video with five creative home decor clay projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Why does my clay keep cracking?
When air dry clay cracks, it’s usually a symptom of overly dry clay or thin edges. Try adding more moisture as you knead the clay, and avoid making the edges of your dish too thin.
-
Is my clay dish waterproof?
Applying a top coat of Mod Podge sealer, polyurethane, or acrylic sealer will help make your air dry clay more water-resistant, but not completely waterproof. It’s best to avoid holding water in your clay dishes.
-
Is air dry clay food safe?
Most air dry clay is non-toxic, but it can get damaged when exposed to water. Therefore, you should avoid using your dishes for food or drinks.
