Polymer Clay vs. Air-Dry Clay: WClay has been one of my favorite DIY projects for as long as I can remember! If you're looking for a creative outlet that’s both fun and relaxing, clay crafting is the perfect way to get your hands dirty and your imagination running wild.

In this post, we're sharing easy clay ideas perfect for teens and adults. Whether you're just getting started with clay craft projects for the first time or you're a seasoned pro, you'll find inspiration in this list of 28 colorful clay project ideas!

Polymer Clay vs. Air-Dry Clay: What’s the Difference?

Before we jump into the colorful clay project ideas, let’s talk about the two main types of clay you can work with: polymer clay and air-dry clay. Understanding the differences between these two will help you choose the right material for your project.that’s the Difference?

Polymer Clay:

This type of clay is known for its versatility and durability. Polymer clay stays soft and workable until you bake it in an oven, which means you have plenty of time to perfect your design. Once baked, polymer clay becomes hard and slightly flexible, making it perfect for intricate designs like clay earrings or miniature clay food. You can also use acrylic paint to add vibrant colors to your polymer clay creations after baking. Check out this post for step-by-step instructions for baking polymer clay.

Air-Dry Clay:

As the name suggests, air-dry clay hardens when exposed to air, eliminating the need for baking. This makes it a great option for beginners or those who don’t have access to an oven. Crayola air dry clay is a popular choice, known for being easy to work with. While air-dry clay doesn’t have the same durability as polymer clay, it’s perfect for home decor projects like clay planters, candle holders, or jewelry plates. You can also use acrylic paint or paint pens to add details once the clay has dried.

Both types of clay are easy to work with and produce great results, so the choice comes down to your project’s needs and your personal preference.

My Absolute Favorite Type of Clay: Sculpey

When it comes to choosing a type of clay for crafting, Sculpey polymer clay has always been my go-to favorite. Sculpey is a type of polymer clay that stays soft and workable until it's baked in the oven, allowing you to take your time perfecting your designs. Once baked, it hardens into a durable and slightly flexible material, ideal for creating everything from intricate jewelry to detailed sculptures.

What I love most about Sculpey is how beginner-friendly it is. Even if it's your first time working with clay, Sculpey makes it easy to get started. The clay is smooth and easy to mold, and it comes in a wide range of colors, so you don’t have to worry about painting your projects unless you want to. Plus, it’s readily available in craft stores and online, making it convenient to stock up on your favorite shades.

If you're interested in learning more about why Sculpey is such an excellent choice for clay projects, I’ve written an entire blog post dedicated to it. In my Polymer Clay for Beginners post, I dive deeper into the features of this fantastic clay, share some of my favorite project tutorials, and offer tips for getting the best results. You can check it out here to explore all the reasons why Sculpey might just become your favorite clay too!

What Do You Need to Get Started With Clay Art?

While each clay art project is different, it's good to start with some basic tools to make the most out of your clay crafting. Here's what you might need:

Polymer Clay or Air Dry Clay
Rolling Pin
Clay Tools
Cookie Cutters (optional)
Ceramic Clay Tile

28 Colorful Clay Project Ideas

Clay Earrings: A Stylish Statement

One of the hottest trends in fashion accessories is clay earrings. Not only are they lightweight and comfortable, but they also allow for endless customization.

You can purchase the clay earrings below, or use them as inspiration to make your own!

1. Hibiscus Earrings from More Colors

Natural materials are a great inspiration for clay jewelry. I love these hibiscus earrings made from clay.

2. Colorful Hoop Earrings from Double Scoop

If you want to add a pop of color to your wardrobe, try making these colorful hoop earrings. You can even try making air dry clay versions!

*Photo Credit via* Colorful Hoop Earrings

3. Drop Hoop Earrings from Winter Bloom Design

If you're looking for an easy yet crafty project, these drop hoop earrings are the perfect place to start!

4. Tie Dye Hoop Earrings from Hello Eana

I love all things tie dye - including these tie dye hoop earrings made from polymer clay.

5. Colorful Arch Earrings from Shop Amber and Stone

Don't just add a little bit of flair to your outfit - add a ton of personality with these colorful arch earrings!

*Photo Credit via* Colorful Arch Earrings

6. Turqouise & Fuscia Earrings from Rich Looks by Karthi

Keep things simple with two-tone DIY clay earrings. These would be easy to make with polymer clay or air dry clay.

*Photo Credit via* Turqouise & Fuscia Earrings

7. Mismatched Square Earrings from Sunny and Sal

Looking for your next Looking for your next statement piece? Try making these mismatched square earrings with different patterns!

Clay earrings make great gift ideas and are a fun project for teens and adults alike.

*Photo Credit via* Mismatched Square Earrings

Clay Home Decor: Personalize Your Space

Clay is a fantastic medium for creating unique home decor items that reflect your personal style. Here are some creative ideas to get you started:
statement piece? Try making these mismatched square earrings with different patterns!

8. Air Dry Clay Flower Mirror from Studio Art Beat

This is one of the best air dry clay ideas I've ever tried. My students loved making this simple craft and it turned out so well. Thanks TikTok!

*Photo Credit via* Air Dry Clay Flower Mirror

9. Marbled Clay Coasters from Studio Art Beat

Coasters are a really easy clay project to start with. Check out my free tutorial on making marbled clay coasters using Sculpey polymer clay.

*Photo Credit via* Marbled Clay Coasters

10. Colorful Clay Planters from A Beautiful Mess

DIY mini succulent planters are a trendy way to add greenery to your space. You can use air-dry clay to create clay planters in various shapes and sizes. This clay petal planter from A Beautiful Mess is one of the easiest air dry clay projects you can start with!

*Photo Credit via* Colorful Clay Planters

11. Cactus Candle Holders from A Beautiful Mess

Create custom candle holders shaped like cacti. The best part is, you can use air dry clay or polymer clay.

*Photo Credit via* Cactus Candle Holders

12. Colorful Bud Vases from Sun Sprinkles Shop

I'm in love with these colorful bud vases from Sun Sprinkles Shop and can't wait to try and recreate them! Which pattern would you choose?

13. Happy Daisy Vase from Lomito Ceramics

This happy daisy vase is a great way to show off your summer flowers! Craft the flower shape out of clay and paint the happy face details after baking.

14. Retro Clay Vases from Pipoos

Clay projects don't have to be complicated. Some simple retro patterns on a white vase really pop!

15. Garden Fairy House from Happiness is Homemade

Making a clay fairy house is one of those easy air-dry clay ideas that makes a great addition to your summer garden. Simply shape the clay, let it dry, and paint with acrylic paint or paint pens.

16. Marbled Christmas Tree Ornament from Sisoo

You can even make DIY Christmas decorations by making your own clay ornaments! I absolutely love these marbled Christmas tree ornaments. If you're looking for easy air dry clay ideas, making your own Christmas ornaments is the way to go.

*Photo Credit via* Marbled Christmas Tree Ornament

17. Rainbow Clay Cake Topper from Tell Love and Party

Another super simple clay craft that really pops, this rainbow cake topper would be the talk of any party!

These craft ideas are a wonderful way to personalize your home and make great conversation pieces.

*Photo Credit via* Rainbow Clay Cake Topper

Clay Trinket Bowls: Perfect for Small Treasures

Keep your jewelry and other small items organized with a handmade jewelry plate or trinket dish. You can make air dry clay bowls or polymer clay bowls with a variety of creative finishes. They’re a perfect project for beginners and experienced crafters alike.

18. Polymer Clay Trinket Dishes from Studio Art Beat

Learn the basics of making clay trinket dishes with this wonderful tutorial. Start with white clay and add texture using clay tools.

*Photo Credit via* Polymer Clay Trinket Dishes

19. 3D Rainbow Trinket Dishes from Club Crafted

How fun is this 3D rainbow trinket dish? This would make the perfect gift for a teacher!

20. Painted Trinket Bowls from Redefine Lovely

Instead of adding details with clay tools, try painting or stamping your clay trinket bowl after it's dried.

*Photo Credit via* Painted Trinket Bowls

21. Portrait Jewelry Bowls from Deep Space Sparkle

I absolutely love the idea of these portrait jewelry bowls made out of clay. Adding the facial features gives such a personal touch! This air dry clay craft is the perfect gift for teens.

*Photo Credit via* Portrait Jewelry Bowls

22. Inspirational Jewelry Plates from Girlscape

Try stamping your clay with letters before drying or baking to make inspirational jewelry plates that bring joy to your day!

*Photo Credit via* Inspirational Jewelry Plates

23. Mushroom Trinket Dish from Jelly Squish Corner

If you're new to sculpting, making a clay mushroom is an easy way to start. Add the mushrooms to a clay dish for a fun addition to your home decor.

*Photo Credit via* Mushroom Trinket Dish

Miniature Clay Food: Adorable and Fun

Miniature clay food is a fun and charming craft that’s perfect for older kids and adults. These tiny replicas can be used as charms, dollhouse accessories, or just cute decor.

24. Miniature Clay Apples from Studio Art Beat

When you're just starting out with making clay food, begin with simple shapes like fruits or vegetables. For example, create a tiny clay apple by rolling a small ball of red clay and adding a tiny green leaf. Use a toothpick to add sculptural details like the apple’s stem.

25. Miniature Clay Cakes from Studio Art Beat

As you gain confidence, try more complex designs like a tiny cake. Polymer clay is ideal for these projects because of its durability and ability to hold fine details.

26. Clay Donuts from Studio Art Beat

My students always love making these clay donuts! You can use cookie cutters to make them look like a bite was taken out of them. Once baked, use acrylic paint and a clear glaze to add realistic details to your miniature donuts. A small brush or paint pens work best for adding highlights and shadows.

27. Clay Lucky Charms from Lovely Crafting Mama

Talk about nostalgic! These clay Lucky Charms would be the perfect addition to a bracelet or keychain.

28. Clay Citrus Cane from Corrupted Crafts

Making clay citrus slices is so easy and such a fun addition to your summer crafts. Try it out with different fruits like oranges, lemons, and limes.

These miniature clay foods are a fun activity that can also help develop fine motor skills for little artists.

Tips for Working with Clay

No matter which type of clay you choose, here are some tips to ensure your projects turn out beautifully:

Air-Dry Clay: If you're working with air-dry clay, make sure to store unused clay in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
Polymer Clay: Always follow the baking instructions on your polymer clay packaging. Over-baking can cause the clay to discolor or become brittle.
Clay Tools: Invest in a set of clay tools to help you shape and texture your creations. Tools like a rolling pin, sculpting tools, and cutting blades can make a big difference in the quality of your work.
Acrylic Paint: Acrylic paint is perfect for adding color to your clay projects. It dries quickly and adheres well to both polymer and air-dry clay.
Creative Projects: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of clay and techniques. Whether you’re creating a coil bowl or a flat design, there are tons of ideas to explore.

FAQs About Clay Projects

Does air dry clay break easily?

Yes, air dry clay can be a bit fragile, especially if it's too thin or not fully dried, so it's best to handle your air-dry clay creations with care.

What is the enemy of clay?

Moisture is the biggest enemy of clay, especially air-dry clay, since it can cause it to soften, crack, or warp.

Can air dry clay get wet?

Air dry clay isn’t waterproof, so if it gets wet after drying, it can become soft again or even dissolve.

What can I make with kids modeling clay?

You can make all sorts of fun projects with kids modeling clay, like animal figurines, simple clay bowls, or even a cute clay mushroom.

Which clay is best for school projects?

For school projects, Crayola air dry clay is a great way to go because it’s easy to use, doesn’t require baking, and comes in air dry clay versions that are safe for kids.

28 Colorful Clay Project Ideas for Teens & Adults