How to Make a DIY Decorative Chain Out of Air Dry Clay (Step-by-Step Guide)
Looking to add a trendy touch to your home décor without splurging? A DIY decorative chain made out of air dry clay is the perfect budget-friendly and stylish project to elevate your interior styling. These chunky, sculptural chains are seen everywhere from Pinterest to high-end boutiques, and they add an organic, minimalist flair to coffee tables, shelves, or bedside consoles.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to make your own diy decorative chain out of air dry clay no kiln or special tools required. Perfect for beginners, this UK-based tutorial will show you the steps, tools needed, finishing techniques, and even a few styling tips for showing off your handmade creation.
Why Choose Air Dry Clay?
Air dry clay is an easy, affordable, and accessible medium for DIY home décor. It requires no oven or kiln, dries naturally at room temperature, and can be sanded, painted, or sealed for a professional finish.
Benefits:
- No special equipment needed
- Easy to shape and sculpt
- Ideal for creating organic, hand-crafted looks
- Safe for kids and beginners
Materials You’ll Need
To make your decorative clay chain, gather the following supplies:
- Air dry clay (such as DAS, Crayola, or Sculpd — available UK-wide)
- Rolling pin or bottle
- Craft knife or sculpting tool
- Fine sandpaper (optional)
- Water and sponge or cloth (for smoothing)
- Paint (acrylic, chalk, or spray paint)
- Paintbrush or sponge brush
- Matte or satin sealer (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Workspace
Lay down baking parchment or a non-stick mat to keep the clay from sticking to surfaces. Make sure your tools are clean and nearby.
Step 2: Roll the Clay
Break off a piece of clay and roll it into a smooth ball, then into a long, thick rope — about 1.5–2cm in diameter. The length depends on how large you want your chain links to be.
Step 3: Shape the Links
Cut the rope into even segments (around 7–10cm each). Form each piece into a smooth oval or circular shape, joining the ends together to form a closed link. Use your fingers and a bit of water to blend and smooth the joint.
Tip: Use a small rolling pin to even out any lumps.
Step 4: Join the Links
Before your clay links dry, assemble them like a real chain:
- Form the first link and let it dry flat on a tray.
- Once semi-dry (about 30–45 mins), loop a fresh link through the first and close it.
- Continue linking and shaping until you’ve created your full chain.
Step 5: Dry Thoroughly
Let your clay chain dry completely for 24–48 hours, flipping occasionally to prevent warping or flat spots.
Tip: Drying times may vary based on thickness and room temperature.
Step 6: Sand and Smooth
Once dry, use fine-grit sandpaper to smooth any seams or rough edges. Wipe away dust with a damp cloth.
Finishing and Painting Options
This is where you can really personalise your DIY decorative chain!
Neutral and Natural
Leave the clay raw and unpainted for a Scandinavian-style, organic look. Seal with a clear matte varnish for durability.
Stone Effect
Use grey chalk paint or textured paint for a stone or cement-like finish. Dry brush white paint over the top for added depth.
Bold and Artistic
Paint each link in a different colour or use metallics (like gold, bronze, or copper) for a more dramatic or luxe look.
Boho or Rustic
Add a whitewash or terracotta-toned paint for earthy vibes.
Styling Your Clay Chain
Your DIY decorative clay chain is a versatile accessory. Here’s how to style it in different parts of your home:
1. Coffee Table Display
Place the chain over a stack of books or in a wooden tray alongside candles and vases.
2. Shelf Styling
Drape the chain across open shelves or atop a pile of design books for an editorial look.
3. Bedroom
Use it as a sculptural element on a bedside table or dresser.
4. Bathroom
Place a mini chain near your sink or bath alongside other ceramic or natural textures.
5. Dining Table
Lay the chain down the centre of your table as part of a neutral-toned tablescape.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Rushing the drying process – can cause cracks or warping.
- Not smoothing the joints – leads to visible seams.
- Making the links too thin – they may crack or break.
- Skipping the sanding step – affects the professional finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make a coloured clay chain without painting it?
A: Yes! You can mix acrylic paint directly into white air dry clay before shaping, but it may affect the drying time slightly.
Q: Can I use oven-bake clay instead?
A: Absolutely. Polymer clay works well for smaller chains but may feel heavier or more polished than air dry clay.
Q: How do I fix cracks in dried clay?
A: Mix a small amount of water with clay to form a paste and use it to fill the cracks. Let dry and then sand smooth.
Sustainable Crafting Tips
- Use leftover clay to make matching trinket dishes or small sculptures.
- Store unused clay in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
- Reuse sanding dust mixed with water to repair small cracks.
Final Thoughts
Creating a DIY decorative chain out of air dry clay is a stylish, affordable, and creative way to personalise your home décor. With just a few materials and some patience, you can craft a bespoke statement piece that looks boutique-bought but is completely handmade.
Whether you’re looking to update your shelf styling or add a minimalist touch to your coffee table, this project is a perfect blend of simplicity and sophistication.
