How to Make Clay Ornaments with Cornstarch

Making clay ornaments with cornstarch is a delightful and budget-friendly Christmas tradition that families can enjoy together. Cornstarch clay is a versatile and non-toxic material that allows for endless creativity and personalization. This article provides a comprehensive guide to making clay ornaments with cornstarch, from gathering materials to displaying the finished products.

Materials and Tools

Cornstarch
Baking soda
Water
Mixing bowl
Measuring cups
Spoon or spatula
Stovetop or microwave
Rolling pin
Cookie cutters or molds
Parchment paper
Baking sheet
Acrylic paints or markers
Glitter or other decorations (optional)
String or ribbon for hanging

Recipe for Cornstarch Clay

Mixing the Ingredients:

In a mixing bowl, combine equal parts cornstarch and baking soda.
Gradually add water while stirring until a dough-like consistency is achieved.
The mixture should be pliable and smooth, not too sticky or crumbly.

Heating the Mixture:

Place the mixture in a saucepan or microwave-safe bowl.
Heat the mixture over medium heat on the stovetop or in the microwave for a few minutes, stirring constantly.
The mixture will thicken and resemble mashed potatoes.

Achieving the Desired Consistency:

Remove the mixture from heat and allow it to cool slightly.
Knead the mixture on a lightly floured surface until it becomes smooth and pliable.
If the mixture is too sticky, add more cornstarch. If it is too dry, add a small amount of water.

Shaping and Designing Ornaments

Rolling and Cutting:

Roll out the clay to a desired thickness, typically around 1/4 inch.
Use cookie cutters or molds to create various shapes for your ornaments.
Alternatively, you can mold the clay by hand to create unique and personalized designs.

Adding Texture and Patterns:

Use a variety of tools to add texture and patterns to the ornaments.
Try using a fork, toothpick, or textured rolling pin to create different effects.
You can also press leaves, flowers, or other natural elements into the clay for a rustic touch.

Creating Holes for Hanging:

Use a straw or skewer to poke a small hole at the top of each ornament before baking.
This hole will allow you to thread a string or ribbon through for hanging.

Drying and Baking

Air-Drying:

Place the ornaments on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet and allow them to air-dry for several hours or overnight.
This method is suitable for ornaments that are not too thick.

Baking:

Preheat the oven to a low temperature, typically around 200-250 degrees Fahrenheit.
Place the ornaments on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet and bake for 30-45 minutes.
Keep an eye on the ornaments to prevent them from browning or burning.

Cooling and Hardening:

Remove the ornaments from the oven and allow them to cool completely.
The ornaments will harden as they cool.

Painting and Decorating

Painting and Coloring:

Once the ornaments are completely cooled, you can paint or color them using acrylic paints or markers.
Be creative and use a variety of colors and designs to personalize each ornament.

Adding Glitter and Embellishments:

Add glitter, beads, or other embellishments to the ornaments for a festive touch.
You can also use a clear sealant to protect the paint and decorations.

Display and Care

Hanging and Displaying:

Thread a string or ribbon through the hole at the top of each ornament and hang them on a Christmas tree, window, or mantel.
You can also create a garland by stringing the ornaments together.

Preserving the Ornaments:

Store the ornaments in a cool and dry place when not in use.
Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight or excessive moisture to prevent fading or damage.

Conclusion

Making clay ornaments with cornstarch is a fun and rewarding activity that can bring families together during the holiday season. The versatility of cornstarch clay allows for endless creativity and personalization, making each ornament a unique and cherished piece. With a little effort and imagination, you can create beautiful and affordable clay ornaments that will add a touch of warmth and charm to your Christmas decorations for years to come.

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FAQs

How do you make cornstarch clay?

To make cornstarch clay, combine equal parts cornstarch and baking soda in a mixing bowl. Gradually add water while stirring until a dough-like consistency is achieved. Heat the mixture over medium heat on the stovetop or in the microwave for a few minutes, stirring constantly, until it resembles mashed potatoes. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly. Knead the mixture on a lightly floured surface until it becomes smooth and pliable.

What are the benefits of using cornstarch clay for ornaments?

Cornstarch clay is affordable, easy to use, and non-toxic, making it a great choice for families with children. It is also versatile and can be easily shaped, molded, and decorated. Additionally, cornstarch clay ornaments are lightweight and durable, making them ideal for hanging on Christmas trees or displaying around the home.

How do you shape and design cornstarch clay ornaments?

To shape and design cornstarch clay ornaments, roll out the clay to a desired thickness and use cookie cutters or molds to create various shapes. You can also mold the clay by hand to create unique and personalized designs. Use a variety of tools to add texture and patterns to the ornaments, such as a fork, toothpick, or textured rolling pin. Don’t forget to poke a hole at the top of each ornament before baking so you can hang them later.

How do you dry and bake cornstarch clay ornaments?

You can either air-dry cornstarch clay ornaments or bake them in the oven. To air-dry, place the ornaments on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet and allow them to dry for several hours or overnight. To bake, preheat the oven to a low temperature (around 200-250 degrees Fahrenheit) and bake the ornaments for 30-45 minutes, or until they are hard and cool to the touch.

How do you paint and decorate cornstarch clay ornaments?

Once the cornstarch clay ornaments are completely dry, you can paint or color them using acrylic paints or markers. Be creative and use a variety of colors and designs to personalize each ornament. You can also add glitter, beads, or other embellishments for a festive touch. To protect the paint and decorations, you can apply a clear sealant.

How do you display and care for cornstarch clay ornaments?

To display cornstarch clay ornaments, thread a string or ribbon through the hole at the top of each ornament and hang them on a Christmas tree, window, or mantel. You can also create a garland by stringing the ornaments together. To care for cornstarch clay ornaments, store them in a cool and dry place when not in use. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight or excessive moisture to prevent fading or damage.