Ingredients
- 1 pound of white air dry clay, in a sealed package
- 1 sheet of parchment paper, about 12 inches by 16 inches
- 1 small rolling pin, about 10 inches long (a smooth glass bottle works as a substitute)
- 1 small bowl, about 4 inches wide, for checking the dish size
- 1 craft knife, with a fresh blade (optional for trimming the edge)
- 1 small cup of clean water, about 4 fluid ounces
- 1 small soft paintbrush, about 1/2 inch wide
- 1 detail paintbrush, about 1/4 inch wide
- 2 fluid ounces of water-based acrylic paint, in your favorite color
- 1 fluid ounce of water-based clear sealer, matte or satin
- 1 sheet of 120 grit sandpaper, about 3 inches by 5 inches
- 1 sheet of 220 grit sandpaper, about 3 inches by 5 inches
- 1 disposable table covering, at least 18 inches by 24 inches
- 1 pair of disposable nitrile gloves, optional for painting and sealing
- 1 clean cotton cloth, about 12 inches by 12 inches, for dusting
Instructions
- Cover your table before you begin, laying parchment over the disposable covering and keeping water, tools, and cloth within reach.
- Open the clay and cut off about 12 ounces, leaving the remaining 4 ounces sealed for small repairs or a second project.
- Knead the portion for 2 to 3 minutes until it feels flexible and even. If it cracks, warm it between your palms instead of adding water.
- Place the clay between the parchment sheets and roll it to about 1/4 inch thick, turning the clay several times to prevent sticking.
- Check the surface, pressing a fingertip into deep marks and rolling over lightly to smooth.
- Set the 4-inch bowl upside down on the clay, trace around it with the craft knife, and cut slowly around its edge.
- Remove extra clay and return it to the sealed portion.
- Place the clay circle on clean parchment, lifting the rim about 1 inch with your fingertips for a natural curve.
- Smooth the inside and outside of the rim with a barely damp fingertip.
- Set the dish somewhere level, out of direct sunlight, and leave it uncovered for 24 hours to dry.
- Once dry, smooth rough spots with 120 grit sandpaper, then finish with 220 grit.
- Wipe away dust with the cotton cloth.
- Paint the first thin coat with the soft brush, working from the center toward the rim. Let it dry for 30 to 45 minutes before adding more coats.
- Add a second coat and use the detail brush for decoration if desired.
- After the paint dries, brush on one thin layer of water-based clear sealer and let it dry for 2 to 4 hours before moving it.
Notes
For variations, try different finishes or sizes. Keep the dish away from direct sunlight for long periods to prevent fading.
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
