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How to make clay creatures

Cute clay creatures are displayed on pedestals with a colorful backdrop in Bunnings DIY workshop

Overview

Looking for a creative activity the whole family can enjoy? With just a few simple supplies, you can create your very own cute clay creatures. Whether it’s a silly monster, a cute animal, or a character straight from your imagination, this project is fun, easy, and perfect for everyone.

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

Tools and materials

Tools

Materials

Steps

1Prep your clay

Start by breaking your air-dry modelling clay into six small, manageable pieces. Each piece will become its own unique creature. To keep your workspace neat and prevent the clay from sticking to your table, place each piece in a BBQ tray. This setup will help you stay organized and make clean-up a breeze.
A young girl in a pink shirt and apron is preparing the clay with her hands, with a BBQ tray underneath to protect the table.

2Shape your creature

This is where the fun begins! Use your hands to mould the clay into whatever shape you can imagine. You might roll it into a ball for a head, stretch it into a long shape for a body, or pinch and pull to form ears, tails, or wings. The possibilities are endless—create a cute animal, a goofy monster, or an entirely original character. Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to shape your creature.
A young girl wearing an apron is carefully shaping a cute clay creature during a Bunnings DIY workshop.

3Decorate your creation

Now bring your clay creature to life with some fun decorations. Press googly eyes into the clay to give it an expressive face. Use pipe cleaners to make arms, legs, or antennae, and pom poms for added texture or detail. You could even carve patterns or add texture to the clay using simple tools like a toothpick or a fork. 
A finger points to a clay creature decorated with googly eyes, surrounded by colorful craft items on a table.

4Paint your masterpiece

Once you’ve finished shaping and decorating your cute clay creature, it’s time to add some colour. Use acrylic paints to give your creation a vibrant personality. You could paint stripes, polka dots, or even a cheeky grin. Make sure to let each colour dry before adding details on top to keep your design crisp and neat.
A child wearing a dark shirt and apron focuses on painting a clay creature at a table filled with colorful craft supplies.

5Let it dry

The final step is to let your clay creature dry completely. Leave it in the tray to avoid smudging the paint or damaging its shape. Depending on the thickness of the clay, drying might take a few hours or even overnight. Once your clay creatures are fully dry, they’re ready to enjoy! Whether you use them as decorations, toys, or gifts, your creations are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face.
Painted clay figures with googly eyes and vibrant designs are displayed in a BBQ tray on a craft table

6Looking for more kids D.I.Y. activities?

Why not try making a tic tac toe game or garden solar lights?

Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.