How to Make an Air Dry Clay Cactus Jewellery Holder

It's useful to knead the clay to loosen it up before you roll or shape it.

Having a small pot of water nearby can help join clay pieces and smooth down any rough edges. You can stir small lumps of clay into the water to create slip, which helps act as a sort of glue when you join pieces together.

To help achieve the right thickness when rolling sheets of clay, tape stacks of lolly sticks together to the height you want. When rolling out the clay, place the stacks at either side of the clay slab to roll a flat, even surface!

Take a lump of clay and start to roll it in your hands - this will be the main part of your cactus!

Roll it to the maximum thickness that you want your cactus to be, then roll it into a cone shape by rolling one end into a point.

You can use a spatula to get it the right height and create a flat, even base so that your cactus will stand up!

In a similar way, roll out two slightly smaller arms. Gently curve each one of these upwards to create a good shape for hanging jewellery from.

When you are happy with the shape and size of the arms, score and slip the bottom of each and gently press them against the main cactus body.

You will probably find that you need a lot of slip in order for the shapes to stick together when standing upright!

You can also smooth extra pieces of clay over the outside of each join for added stability.

To complete your cactus, cut a small flower using a knife or cutter.

Score and slip the bottom and flower and stick it to the top of the main cactus body (or you can add as many as you like!)

To create the base for your jewellery holder, cut a circle shape with your spatula using a glass or another circular object as a guide. Smooth the edge with your finger using slip or water.

To create a raised edge for your base, roll a long, thin sausage shape from clay.

Score and slip the edges of the circle, as well as the bottom of the long roll of clay. Gently press the roll along the edge of the circle and cut off any excesses.

Use lots of slip or water to smooth the two pieces together and create a seamless rim around the edge of the base.

When you're happy with the base, score a portion in the centre where your cactus will sit.

Add slip to both pieces and press firmly and smooth the pieces together for a strong join. Allow to dry for 24 - 48 hours - if you find that your cactus is leaning slightly, you can use a small object to prop it up into an upright position until the slip has set and it can continue drying.

Once it is completely dry, sand down any rough edges or surfaces using sandpaper.

Shake off any excess clay dust.

You can paint your cactus using any acrylic paint. Start by adding blocks of colour and add decorations once your base layer is dry.

Combine matt, gloss and metallic colours to create a jewellery holder in colours that suit you!

Once dry, your cactus jewellery stand is ready to use!