Craft a Rustic Tray from Air-Dry Clay

Place half of clay slab on clean, non-stick work surface. Roll out with rolling pin to ¼ thickness in a loose rectangular shape.

Place half of clay slab on clean, non-stick work surface. Roll out with rolling pin to ¼ thickness in a loose rectangular shape.

Use stamps or plastic knife to create a pattern in rolled-out clay. Tip: Clay can also be imprinted with fabric, lace, flowers, leaves, shells, etc. Test it out and, if it doesn't look good, just roll out the clay and try again. The options really are endless!

Use stamps or plastic knife to create a pattern in rolled-out clay. Tip: Clay can also be imprinted with fabric, lace, flowers, leaves, shells, etc. Test it out and, if it doesn't look good, just roll out the clay and try again. The options really are endless!

Carefully place clay inside a platter, bowl, or plate in desired shape. Gently press clay into the form of platter. Don't press too hard or the design will be damaged. Cut rough edges with plastic knife and smooth out with a finger. The edges will be sanded once clay is dry, so it doesn't have to be perfect at this stage. Allow clay to dry until hardened per instructions (usually about 24-72 hours).

Carefully place clay inside a platter, bowl, or plate in desired shape. Gently press clay into the form of platter. Don't press too hard or the design will be damaged. Cut rough edges with plastic knife and smooth out with a finger. The edges will be sanded once clay is dry, so it doesn't have to be perfect at this stage. Allow clay to dry until hardened per instructions (usually about 24-72 hours).

Carefully place clay inside a platter, bowl, or plate in desired shape. Gently press clay into the form of platter. Don' t press too hard or the design will be damaged. Cut rough edges with plastic knife and smooth out with a finger. The edges will be sanded once clay is dry, so it doesn't have to be perfect at this stage. Allow clay to dry until hardened per instructions (usually about 24-72 hours).

Paint tray in desired color with acrylic craft paints. Once paint is dry, apply a spray-on, non-yellowing glossy clear finish to add shine and protection. Allow finish to dry before use. Tray is for decorative purposes only and is not food safe. Tip: Tray can be left unfinished and/or unpainted, if desired.

Handmade holiday decor are usually the pieces that become heirlooms. Make this simple and pretty decorative tray for fall with air-dry clay and some paint. It's a perfect craft for adult and kids alike.

Handmade holiday decor are usually the pieces that become heirlooms. Make this simple and pretty decorative tray for fall with air-dry clay and some paint. It's a perfect craft for adult and kids alike.