Turn a lump of clay into a work of art or functional piece with these clay ideas for adults! From jewelry to lighting, there is something for everyone on this list.
Many people assume that crafting with clay is either for children, or for professionals using a pottery wheel and kiln.
However, there are so many things you can create with clay—and the finished product doesn’t end up looking like that elementary school ‘Dad’ mug or ashtray you may have made.
Types of clay used in crafting
Before I share my list of fabulous clay ideas for adults, I’d like to go over a couple of things. Later, I will discuss the benefits of working with clay, but first I’d like to talk about the different types of clay you may run into when crafting.
Polymer clay is easily moldable and comes in a variety of vibrant colors. It is perfect for detailed projects and jewelry making.
Great for home crafting, air-dry clay hardens naturally over time. It’s fantastic for sculpting and doesn’t require a kiln.
Modeling clay is easy to work with and doesn’t dry out. Soft and pliable, modeling clay is excellent for kids and beginners.
Ideal for pottery and larger sculptures, ceramic clay is fired in a kiln to achieve a durable finish.
Benefits of adults crafting with clay
Now that you are more familiar with the types of clay, I’d like to go over why crafting with clay is such a fantastic idea for adults.
Kneading clay can be therapeutic, helping to melt away the stresses of the day. It’s a perfect way to unwind and let your mind focus.
You know those times when you are stewing over a problem? Crafting with clay can help you get your mind off of it. Clay demands your attention. As you mold and shape, you can practice mindfulness, leaving behind the chaos of the outside world.
There’s something satisfying about turning a lump of clay into a beautiful piece of art. Each finished project is a confidence booster, reminding you of what you can do if you put your mind (and hands) to it!
Ready to get started? Grab your apron, set up a spot to craft, and take a look at my list of clay ideas for adults …
Clay Ideas for Adults
Turn a lump of clay into a work of art or functional piece with these clay ideas for adults. Jewelry, lighting, and so much more!
Wireless Wall Sconce
Create your own wireless clay wall sconce light for just $25 with this tutorial. Don't you love it when you can DIY something beautiful AND functional?
Suncatcher
Create a stunning piece that captures the sunlight, adding a touch of whimsy to your space. This DIY suncatcher is truly mesmerizing!
Origami Ring Holder
You can make a regular ring holder – but this origami themed holder with bright yellow paint takes a plain project up a notch. You’ll love it!
Modern Desk Organizer
I love the colors and marbled look of this desk organizer! Marbling is easy to create with clay and you can customize it exactly as you like. Nice, right?
Woodland Creatures
Find out how to make these adorable woodland creature party favors. Turn them into fridge magnets or pins and your guests will remember your party every time they see them!
Watermelon Magnets
Dress up your fridge with some watermelon magnets made using polymer clay. These would also be a fun addition to your office file cabinet!
Hanging Sloth Planter
Follow along with this tutorial and make your own delightful hanging sloth planter. It is easier than you might think!
Clay Gift Tags
Use Mod Podge on clay in this gift tag project, that works well for place settings as well. Perfect for fall and SO easy to make.
Marbled Clock
When I first saw this, I couldn't believe that it was made of clay. What a beautiful and simple addition to your home decor.
Clay Trivet
Here is a tutorial for a simple and modern DIY trivet. These clay trivets are so easy to make and will look really nice on your dinner table.
Chunky Knit Vase
Made using clay, this DIY chunky knit vase is really easy and look impressive! Fill them with plants or use one as a pen holder.
Clay Mushroom Ornaments
Have fun coming up with super cute ways to paint these air dry clay mushroom ornaments. I love that she didn't use the traditional mushroom or Christmas colors.
Keychain
Add a personal touch to your keys with a DIY keychain made using Fimo leather effect. Express your style and creativity while crafting a practical and stylish accessory!
Hanging Clay Stars
What a great every day star project that is also perfect for the holidays! I love the idea of painting these clay stars either gold or silver . . . or both.
Decorative Chain
Learn how to make a knock-off decorative object chain to look like the designer version for much less using air dry clay.
Marbled Bracelets
Unleash your artistic side and create unique, wearable pieces that effortlessly blend style and individuality. You are going to love these stunning DIY marbled bracelets
Travel Boggle Game
Bring the fun of the game Boggle on the go with a personalized touch! Check out this tutorial on making your own travel Boggle with letter blocks made from clay.
Decorative Clay Chimes
Create a charming and inviting outdoor space with DIY decorative clay wind chimes. Circles were used for this tutorial, but you could switch up the shapes if you like.
Strawberry Earrings
Learn how to make homemade strawberry earrings out of clay! This jewelry tutorial can be made into any shape you like.
Clay Wall Hanging
Embrace the beauty of simplicity with a DIY clay wall hanging. This tutorial guides you through creating a chic and minimalist wall decor piece that will effortlessly enhance any room in your home.
Napkin Rings
For these napkin rings, you will use air dry clay and letter stamps to write names or words that go with the holiday.
Candleholder
Illuminate your space with a touch of funky elegance using this easy clay candleholder tutorial. Personalize them with colors to match your decor.
Feather Necklace
This is one of my favorite polymer clay pendants; it looks just like something you'd find in Anthropologie.
Clay Ring Dish
Make a cute little clay ring dish with hand painted accents! These darling dishes are a pretty personalized gift, and are so easy to make.
Clay Napkin Holder
This napkin holder with weight was made entirely of polymer clay. The intricate design was added using a piece of lace trim!
Nintendo Button Earrings
Use a Nintendo 64 controller to make the coolest geek earrings! This is one of those cool clay crafts that everyone will ask you about.
Name Necklaces
Mold clay into any word you like for a custom necklace. Just bake it to harden and you can make them into necklaces or bracelets! I love that you have flexibility with the font with this idea.
Clay Plant Markers
These little plant markers are the perfect way to give a succulent or potted plant for Mother’s Day! Even if you've never crafted before, you'll be able to make these.
Cactus Candle Holders
Air dry clay, paint, and a gold pen are used to make these super cute cactus candle holders. These cacti are going to be fun to make for your home.
Peep Magnets
These cute magnets are so easy to make with your favorite colors of clay . . . and Peeps themed cookie cutters.
Clay coasters
Create your own stamps using decorative buttons with interesting designs. These DIY coasters are super easy to make with them.
Clay and Driftwood Spoons
These rustic spoons use driftwood for the handle. The spoon itself? Clay! They look great in photos and can be used with dry foods.
Clay Pendant
Are you looking for a unique jewelry idea using Mod Podge Dimensional Magic? These pendants are perfect and will make great gifts!
Did these clay ideas for adults inspire you? I’d love it if you could share this post with your friends using the buttons below! Then check out these other great crafts for adults:
- 50+ Easy Crafts for Adults: No Crafting Skills Required!
- How to Make a Gnome for Decorating (Nordic Inspired!)
- Recycled Crafts: Easy Upcycling Projects Adults Will Love
- 50+ Wood Crafts for Unique Home Decor!
- 35+ Fabric Crafts that Don’t Need a Sewing Machine!
The post Clay Ideas for Adults: Shape, Mold, & Express Your Creativity appeared first on DIY Candy.
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