Holidays are coming up and we couldn't resist trying this fun handmade gift idea: clay paw prints! Hang them as wall art, or add a string of leather for a one of a kind ornament. Don't have access to a kiln? This project is easily adaptable and can be made with air-dry or oven-bake clay.
Supplies:
- ceramic clay, air dry clay, or oven-bake clay
- cloth canvas or a cute piece of denim
- rolling pin or other large cylinder object for rolling (an empty jar or wine bottle works well)
- sharp pencil or pin tool
- your adorable dog or cat!
1. Roll a slab of clay, about 1/4 inch thick, onto a canvas surface. Ensure the clay is thick enough that applying pressure won't result in tearing through the bottom.
If you don't have a piece of canvas, a pair of old blue jeans will work.
2. Move your slab of clay to the ground, keeping it on the canvas. Position your dog over the slab. You want to get leverage so that pressing your pet's paw print will be easier.
3. Use one hand to hold your pet's arm, positioning it over the slab, use your other hand to firmly press their paw into the clay. It helps if you position the slab of clay almost underneath your pet, and let them stand over it as you press. You might need some assistance for this part!
4. Love it? Great. Keep it and move on to step #5. Didn't come out? Simply ball up the clay, roll a new slab, and try again. Add a tiny bit of water if the clay dries out.
5. If you're happy with your paw print go ahead and cut it from the slab. You can use a cookie cutter, pin tool, or a sharp pencil to give it clean edges.
6. We wanted to make a wall piece so we used a pin tool and gave our print a sweet house shape detail.
7. Using a pin tool or sharpened pencil add a hole to hang your piece.
You can also add a piece of leather cord and make it into an ornament. Allow to dry. If using ceramic clay, you can use underglazes to add color and then have the piece fired at your local studio.
Alternatively you can use air dry clay and paint with acrylic paints. Make sure to use appropriate paint or glaze for whatever clay type you're using!
Looking for video tutorials? Watch our entire Clay Time series
here.
Ready to try your hand at clay but want some gentle guidance?
Sign up for one of our in-person
workshops hosted at our storefront in Portland, Oregon. They're an easy and fun way to learn about clay and connect with your local community.
And remember, it's about the process, not the product!
