Unleash your creativity by making air dry clay at home with simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen! Whether you’re looking to craft handmade ornaments, charming figurines, or unique clay decor, this easy DIY recipe using school glue, vinegar, cornstarch, and baby oil or lotion is perfect for crafters of all ages. Plus, it’s low heat, safe, and super fun to make. Let’s dive into the steps and get started!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
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White school glue – 1 cup (PVA glue works best)
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Cornstarch – 1 cup (plus extra for kneading)
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White vinegar – 2 tablespoons (to preserve and maintain pliability)
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Baby oil or lotion – 1 tablespoon (for a smooth texture and a pleasant smell)
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Water – ½ cup
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Non-stick pan or saucepan
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Spoon or spatula for stirring
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Parchment paper for cooling
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Prepare Your Workspace:
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Gather all your ingredients and tools. Lay parchment paper on your work surface for easy cleanup.
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Mix Your Ingredients:
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In a non-stick pan, combine 1 cup of school glue, ½ cup of water, and 2 tablespoons of vinegar. Stir gently to blend.
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Add Cornstarch Gradually:
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Slowly add 1 cup of cornstarch to the mixture. Stir continuously to avoid lumps. You’re looking for a smooth, consistent texture.
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Incorporate Baby Oil or Lotion:
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Add 1 tablespoon of baby oil or lotion to the mixture. This step is key to creating soft and pliable clay.
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Cook on Low Heat:
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Place the pan over low heat and stir constantly. The mixture will begin to thicken. Keep stirring to prevent burning and ensure even consistency.
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When the dough starts pulling away from the sides of the pan and forms a ball-like shape, it’s ready. This usually takes about 5-8 minutes.
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Cool and Knead:
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Transfer the hot dough onto the parchment paper. Let it cool until it’s safe to handle.
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Dust your hands and the dough with a bit of cornstarch, then knead the clay until it becomes soft and smooth. This step also removes excess stickiness.
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Store Your Clay:
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Store your air dry clay in an airtight container or plastic bag. Adding a few drops of baby oil before sealing helps prevent it from drying out prematurely.
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Tips for Success
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Adjust Texture: If the clay feels too sticky, add small amounts of cornstarch while kneading. If it’s too dry, mix in a drop or two of baby oil.
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Work Quickly: Air dry clay hardens when exposed to air, so always reseal unused portions promptly.
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Creative Add-Ons: Want colored clay? Add a few drops of food coloring or acrylic paint to the mixture before cooking.
If you do not have the time to experiment or if you want to have a consistent clay quality, you can check out my recommended air dry clay / cold porcelain, which is Nicron Cold Porcelain.
Making air dry clay at home is an easy and rewarding project that will spark your inner artist. With this affordable and simple recipe, you’re all set to create beautiful, lasting memories. Let your imagination take flight and start crafting today!