Ingredients
- 8 ounces of white air dry clay
- 1 shallow bowl measuring 4 to 4.5 inches across
- 1 small rolling pin or smooth glass bottle
- 1 sheet of parchment paper measuring about 12 by 12 inches
- 1 piece of fine-grit sandpaper, 220 grit, measuring about 3 by 3 inches
- 1 wooden skewer or toothpick (optional)
- 1 small craft knife with a protective cap
- 1 small paintbrush with a soft, flat tip, about 1/2 inch wide
- 1 fluid ounce of acrylic craft paint (choose one color)
- 1 fluid ounce of water-based matte sealer (optional)
- 1 disposable cup holding 4 fluid ounces of water
- 2 clean cotton cloths measuring about 8 by 8 inches
- 1 plastic table covering measuring at least 24 by 36 inches
- 1 pair of disposable nitrile gloves (optional)
Instructions
- Cover your table with the plastic sheet before you open the clay.
- Wash and dry your hands, then place the parchment paper in the center of the covered table.
- Set out the bowl, rolling tool, cloths, water, and clay.
- Cut or tear off 4 ounces of air dry clay and seal the remaining 4 ounces.
- Knead the working clay for 2 to 3 minutes until it feels smooth and flexible.
- Roll the clay between two clean sections of parchment until it forms a circle about 6 inches across and close to 1/4 inch thick.
- Place the shallow bowl upside down on the clay and use the craft knife to cut around it.
- Lift the extra clay away and save it for small repairs or another project.
- Smooth the cut edge with a barely damp fingertip.
- Turn the clay circle over and lay it across the outside of the upside-down bowl.
- Gently press from the center toward the edge.
- Shape the rim with your fingers.
- Use the wooden skewer to add three or four tiny marks near one side, if you want.
- Let the clay sit on the bowl for 4 to 6 hours, then carefully lift it away and place it on a clean, dry part of the parchment.
- Turn it once after another 6 hours.
- After the dish feels fully firm, gently sand any rough edge with 220 grit sandpaper.
- Paint one thin coat of acrylic paint over the outside and inside.
- Allow the first coat to dry for 1 to 2 hours, then add a second coat if needed.
- Let the painted dish dry for another 2 to 4 hours before applying a thin layer of water-based matte sealer.
- Brush on the sealer with light strokes and let it dry for 24 hours before placing objects inside.
- Wipe your tools with a damp cloth while the paint is fresh.
Notes
Keep the craft knife pointed toward the cutting mat or table, never toward your hand. Wear a dust mask if sanding creates visible dust. Use paint and sealer with good airflow, and avoid placing the finished piece near food.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
