Want to add a personal touch to your kitchen while flexing your creative muscles? With air dry clay, you can craft a one-of-a-kind paper towel roll holder that’s both functional and funky. It’s a great project for beginners or anyone looking to spice up their home decor. Let’s get started!
What You’ll Need
- 1kg of air dry clay (grab our Starter Clay Kit for all-in-one convenience!)
- A rolling pin
- Water bowl
- Sculpting tools (included in our kits!)
- Slip (a mix of clay and water for attaching pieces)
- Acrylic paints and brushes
- Glaze for finishing (included in all Sunday & Clay kits)
- A wet sponge
Step-by-Step Tutorial
Step 1: Create Three Clay Balls
You’ll need:
- One ball for the base.
- One larger “mega ball” for the side walls.
- One medium ball for the centrepiece (this will hold the roll).
Step 2: Shape the Base
Roll out the first ball into a thick circle, approximately 4–5cm thick, and ensure it’s slightly larger than the diameter of a paper towel roll. This will provide a sturdy base for your holder.
Step 3: Make the Centrepiece
Shape the medium-sized ball into a cylinder slightly shorter than a paper towel roll. Score the bottom of the cylinder and the centre of the base with a skewer. Apply slip, then attach the cylinder to the base, pressing gently to secure it.
Step 4: Form the Sides
Roll out the large ball and shape it into two curved side walls. These will cradle the roll and prevent it from slipping off. Score and use slip to attach them to the base and the cylinder, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
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Step 5: Smooth the Surface
Use a wet sponge to smooth any rough edges or seams. This step ensures a polished, professional finish.
Step 6: Dry Thoroughly
Let the holder dry for 48–72 hours in a well-ventilated space. The clay should feel chalky and lighter in colour when completely dry.
Step 7: Paint Your Holder
Now for the fun part—painting! Add funky patterns or bold colours to suit your kitchen’s vibe. Let your creativity run wild.
Step 8: Glaze and Finish
Once the paint has dried, apply a coat of glaze to give your roll holder a glossy, durable finish. Allow it to dry completely before use.