Baking Soda Clay Ornaments
The holiday season is a perfect time to get creative and make something special. Baking soda clay ornaments are an easy, budget-friendly, and fun craft that you can do with your family. These beautiful, handmade ornaments can be customized with stamps, paints, or even essential oils for a personal touch. Plus, they make excellent gifts or keepsakes to cherish for years to come!
What You’ll Need
Ingredients:
- 1 cup baking soda
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 3/4 cup water
Tools and Supplies:
- Mixing bowl
- Medium saucepan
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutters
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Straw or skewer (to make holes for hanging)
- Twine, ribbon, or hooks for hanging
Instructions: How to Make Baking Soda Clay Ornaments
Step 1: Make the Clay
- In a medium saucepan, combine the baking soda and cornstarch. Gradually stir in the water.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly. It will begin to thicken into a dough-like consistency.
- Once the clay starts to pull away from the sides of the pan and forms a ball, remove it from the heat.
Step 2: Cool and Knead
- Transfer the clay to a bowl or onto a parchment-lined surface. Allow it to cool slightly until it’s comfortable to handle.
- Knead the dough for a few minutes to ensure it’s smooth and pliable.
Step 3: Roll and Cut
- Roll out the clay on a flat surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. If it’s sticky, use a bit of cornstarch to dust the surface and rolling pin.
- Use cookie cutters to create your desired shapes—stars, trees, snowflakes, and hearts are always festive!
Step 4: Make Holes for Hanging
Using a straw or skewer, make a small hole near the top of each ornament. This is where you’ll thread the ribbon or twine later.
Step 5: Dry the Ornaments
- Carefully transfer the ornaments to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Let them air dry overnight, flipping them occasionally to ensure even drying. Alternatively, you can bake them at 170°F (75°C) for about an hour, flipping halfway through.
Decorating Ideas
Once your ornaments are completely dry, it’s time to decorate! Here are some ideas:
- Paint: Use acrylic paints to add color and detail.
- Stamp: Press designs into the clay before drying for a textured look.
- Glaze: Apply a clear sealant for a glossy finish.
- Add Scent: Rub a few drops of essential oil on the back for a holiday fragrance.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overheat the clay while cooking. This can make it dry and crumbly.
- Store unused clay in an airtight container to keep it pliable for future use.
- Handle with care—baking soda clay can be fragile, so avoid heavy handling once dried.
Hang and Enjoy!
Thread ribbon, twine, or hooks through the holes and hang your ornaments on your tree, mantle, or anywhere that needs a festive touch. These ornaments are a wonderful way to add a personal, handmade charm to your holiday decor. 🎄✨
Happy crafting and happy holidays! 🎁
Baking Soda Clay Ornaments
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 cup baking soda
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 3/4 cup water
Instructions
- Step 1: Make the Clay
- In a medium saucepan, combine the baking soda and cornstarch. Gradually stir in the water.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly. It will begin to thicken into a dough-like consistency.
- Once the clay starts to pull away from the sides of the pan and forms a ball, remove it from the heat.
- Step 2: Cool and Knead
- Transfer the clay to a bowl or onto a parchment-lined surface. Allow it to cool slightly until it’s comfortable to handle.
- Knead the dough for a few minutes to ensure it’s smooth and pliable.
- Step 3: Roll and Cut
- Roll out the clay on a flat surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. If it’s sticky, use a bit of cornstarch to dust the surface and rolling pin.
- Use cookie cutters to create your desired shapes—stars, trees, snowflakes, and hearts are always festive!
- Step 4: Make Holes for Hanging
- Using a straw or skewer, make a small hole near the top of each ornament. This is where you’ll thread the ribbon or twine later.
- Step 5: Dry the Ornaments
- Carefully transfer the ornaments to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Let them air dry overnight, flipping them occasionally to ensure even drying. Alternatively, you can bake them at 170°F (75°C) for about an hour, flipping halfway through.
- Decorating Ideas
Notes
Stamp: Press designs into the clay before drying for a textured look.
Glaze: Apply a clear sealant for a glossy finish.
Add Scent: Rub a few drops of essential oil on the back for a holiday fragrance.