How to Make Clay Ornaments with Flour

Creating clay ornaments with flour is a fun and simple DIY project that’s perfect for all ages. Whether you’re looking for a creative activity to do with kids, want to personalize holiday decorations, or just enjoy crafting, these homemade ornaments are a great choice. Using basic ingredients like flour, salt, and water, you can mold and design unique pieces that add a personal touch to any occasion. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the steps on how to make clay ornaments with flour so that you can get back to using it in no time! So grab your tools, and let’s get started!

Why Make Clay Ornaments with Flour?

Making clay ornaments with flour is a fun, affordable, and customizable way to create lasting memories. Unlike store-bought ornaments, crafting your own allows you to add a personal touch, whether it’s shaping them into meaningful designs or painting them in colors that match your style. It’s also an excellent activity for all ages, promoting creativity and providing a perfect opportunity to bond with family or friends.

Beyond their sentimental value, these ornaments are eco-friendly, as they use simple, non-toxic ingredients that are safe for the environment. Whether for holidays, special occasions, or just because, flour-based clay ornaments are a wonderful way to express your creativity and preserve cherished moments.

Ingredients and Tools Needed

To create your flour-based clay ornaments, you will need the following ingredients and tools:

Ingredients 

• 2 cups of all-purpose flour 
• 1 cup of salt 
• 1 cup of water 
• Optional: Food coloring or natural dyes for added color 

Tools 

• Mixing bowl 
• Measuring cups 
• Wooden spoon or spatula 
• Rolling pin 
• Cookie cutters or shaping tools 
• Baking sheet 
• Parchment paper 
• Paints, brushes, and sealant (for decoration) 

Having these ingredients and tools ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable, allowing you to focus entirely on crafting your unique designs.

10 Methods How to Make Clay Ornaments with Flour

1. Create a Simple Flour Clay Dough Recipe

Begin by preparing a basic flour clay dough using all-purpose flour, salt, and water. The most common ratio is 2 cups of flour to 1 cup of salt and ¾ cup of water. Mix the dry ingredients first to distribute the salt evenly, then slowly add the water while stirring continuously. Knead the dough by hand until it reaches a smooth, pliable consistency. This homemade clay is non-toxic, safe for kids, and perfect for crafting ornaments that harden upon drying. You can double or halve the recipe depending on how many ornaments you plan to make.

2. Add Cornstarch or Cream of Tartar for Smooth Texture

If you want a smoother and more durable dough, consider incorporating ½ cup of cornstarch or 1 tablespoon of cream of tartar into your mixture. These additions refine the texture of the flour clay, making it less grainy and more moldable. Cream of tartar, in particular, helps stabilize the dough and prevents cracking as it dries. This improved consistency is especially beneficial when you’re making detailed or thin ornaments like snowflakes, stars, or filigree-style decorations.

3. Use Cookie Cutters for Shaping Ornaments

Once the dough is prepared, roll it out evenly to about ¼ inch thickness using a rolling pin. Lightly flour your work surface to prevent sticking. Then, use holiday-themed cookie cutters—such as trees, hearts, stars, or bells—to shape your ornaments. Carefully lift each cutout and place it on a parchment-lined baking tray. Remember to make a hole near the top of each ornament using a straw or skewer so that you can hang it with a ribbon or twine once it’s dry.

4. Personalize with Impressions and Texture Tools

Add unique designs to your clay ornaments by pressing stamps, leaves, textured fabrics, or lace into the surface. Simply press your chosen item gently into the dough before baking or drying. This adds intricate details and personality to each piece, turning a simple ornament into a meaningful keepsake. You can even Use Alphabet Stamps to imprint names, dates, or seasonal messages like “Joy” or “Peace” into your ornaments.

5. Air Dry or Oven Bake for Hardening

To set your ornaments, you can either let them air dry for 24–48 hours or bake them in the oven. For quicker results, preheat your oven to 200°F (90°C) and bake the ornaments for 2–3 hours. Flip them halfway through to ensure even drying. Be cautious not to overheat the ornaments, as this can cause bubbling or browning. Once cooled, they should feel firm and dry to the touch. Air drying is gentler and works well in dry climates but takes significantly longer.

6. Smooth Rough Edges with Sandpaper

After your ornaments are dry and hardened, inspect them for rough edges or uneven surfaces. Use fine-grit sandpaper to gently smooth any imperfections. This step enhances the overall appearance and prepares the surface for painting or decorating. Sanding also helps remove any minor bumps or lumps from rolling and cutting. Make sure to do this on a protected surface and in a well-ventilated area to minimize dust.

7. Paint with Acrylics or Tempera for Vibrant Color

To decorate your ornaments, use acrylic or tempera paints for rich, opaque coverage. Acrylic paint adheres well to the flour clay surface and dries quickly, making it ideal for layering colors or adding intricate designs. You can use a paintbrush, sponge, or even your fingers to apply color. Consider festive palettes—reds, greens, whites, and golds—for holiday-themed ornaments. For added sparkle, apply glitter glue or metallic paints after your base coat has dried.

8. Seal with Mod Podge or Clear Varnish for Durability

Once your ornaments are fully painted and dried, protect them with a coat of Mod Podge, clear acrylic spray, or varnish. This sealing step not only enhances shine but also protects the surface from moisture and wear. It helps prevent the flour clay from softening over time if exposed to humidity. Apply the sealant in thin, even coats, allowing each layer to dry before applying the next. This will ensure long-lasting ornaments that can be reused year after year.

9. Attach Hangers Using Ribbon, Twine, or Hooks

Thread a decorative ribbon, jute twine, or ornament hook through the hole made during shaping. Tie the ends together to create a loop for hanging. Choose materials that complement your color scheme—for example, use red plaid ribbon for a rustic look or metallic cord for an elegant finish. You can also add small embellishments like beads or bells to the hanger for an extra festive touch. Make sure the knot is secure so the ornament won’t fall when hung.

10. Store Properly to Reuse Year After Year

To preserve your handmade flour clay ornaments, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Wrap each piece individually in tissue paper or bubble wrap and place them in a sturdy box. Label and store them with your seasonal decorations. If sealed properly and stored well, these ornaments can last for several years. Avoid exposure to high humidity or temperature fluctuations, which can soften or crack the flour clay over time.

Maintenance and Upkeep 

Proper care is essential to ensure your flour clay ornaments remain in excellent condition for years to come. Periodically check on your stored ornaments to ensure they are free of moisture and undamaged. If you notice any signs of wear, such as small cracks or faded paint, consider touching them up with a thin coat of sealant or repainting if necessary. For cleaning, gently wipe the ornaments with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust.

Avoid using water or harsh chemicals, as these can weaken the material and compromise the integrity of the ornaments. With regular maintenance and a little extra care, you can keep your handmade decorations looking their best.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with proper care, handmade decorations may encounter some common issues over time. Here are a few tips to address them:

1. Peeling Paint: If you notice peeling or flaking paint, gently sand the affected area with fine-grit sandpaper and apply a fresh coat of paint or sealant. Allow it to dry completely before handling.
2. Cracks or Breaks: For minor cracks, use a strong adhesive suited for the material of your decoration to carefully seal the damage. For more significant breaks, consider reinforcing the area with additional material or consulting a professional for repair.
3. Discoloration: Prolonged exposure to sunlight or humidity can cause some ornaments to fade or discolor. Store decorations in a cool, dry place when not in use, and consider applying a UV-protective sealant during maintenance to minimize future fading.
4. Loose Details or Embellishments: Use a craft-grade glue or adhesive to securely reattach any loose details, ensuring you allow enough drying time for durability.

By addressing these issues promptly, you can extend the lifespan of your handmade ornaments and maintain their visual appeal for years to come.

Conclusion

Maintaining the quality and beauty of your handmade ornaments requires regular care and attention to detail. By implementing the tips shared above, you can preserve their charm and craftsmanship, ensuring they remain a cherished part of your celebrations. Now that you know how to make clay ornaments with flour, try it yourself today and feel good about completing such a big DIY job!