A festive keepsake craft, this handprint Santa ornament is simple, fun, and perfect for kids. Using air-dry clay, paint, and a few decorations, you’ll create a personalised holiday piece to hang on the tree or gift to loved ones.
You’ll need
- Air-dry clay
- Rolling pin
- Acrylic paint and paint brushes
- Craft knife or clay cutting tool
- String or ribbon
- Cotton balls or pom-poms
- Hot glue gun
- Clear gloss varnish or PVA glue (optional)
Directions
Thread your string or ribbon, and use a hot glue gun to attach the cotton ball to the end of Santa’s “hat.”
Place your air-dry clay between two sheets of baking paper and roll it to about 5–7mm thick. You want it even, but not too thin or it may crack.
Press your hand firmly into the clay, fingers close together. Lift the hand straight up to avoid smudging the print.
Use a knife or a clay tool to carefully cut around the handprint, leaving a smooth outline.
With wet fingers, smooth out the edges. Use the end of a thin paintbrush to poke a hole at the top.
Leave the clay flat on a piece of baking paper for 24–48 hours. Flip halfway through drying to prevent curling.
Paint your Santa, then allow the paint to dry. Seal the paint with a varnish or PVA glue.
