Easy DIY Air Dry Clay Jewelry Tray

Step-by-step guide to making an air-dry clay jewelry tray with photos

1. Step 1: Preparing the clay

   
   Get a chunk of clay, then roll and flatten it until the desired thickness. Get your mold/tray, then place it above the clay, and cut roughly around the shape, making sure to leave enough allowance. Sprinkle some powder all over your mold or tray and spread it evenly.

2. Step 2: Shaping the clay

   
   Carefully transfer the clay to the mold, then, using a damp sponge, wipe it down to smooth it as the clay takes the shape of the mold. Cut out the excess, then smooth any cracks that will appear using water and any tool that you have; feel free to use your hands or fingers.

3. Step 3: Applying the primer

   
   Allow the clay to dry and set completely, then gently remove it from the mold. It should come off easily because of the powder that you applied, which helped the clay not to stick to your mold or tray. Next, apply a coat of primer, then let it dry completely, and apply another coating as needed.

4. Step 4: Placing the napkin paper

   
   First, you need to apply the Mod Podge all over the clay tray, then remove the backing paper of your napkin paper, and carefully place it onto the tray, making sure that the pattern lines up nicely. Cut out the excess, then apply more Mod Podge all over the napkin paper.
   
   Note: If you don’t have Mod Podge, you can DIY one by mixing 2 parts of white glue with 1 part of water.

5. Step 5: Applying the resin

   
   Once the glue has dried completely, feel free to add some details around the edges using a metallic marker. Apply a thin coat of UV resin, then spread that out evenly all over the tray, making sure to cover the edges nicely to lock the napkin paper and the marker in place. Place it on a UV lamp and let it cure until it’s not sticky anymore.