Modelling clay ideas: How to use DAS modelling clay


Founded in 1963, DAS has become one of the most popular modelling clay brands in the world. It’s incredibly versatile and simple to use – and doesn’t require much extra equipment. 

You won’t need a kiln to harden it, and you can decorate set modelling clay with everything from watercolours to acrylic paint.

Excited to get started? Get inspired with our run-down of modelling clay ideas:

 Stylish stationary

If you’re bored of standard paperclips, bookmarks and pins, try using DAS modelling clay to bring them to life. 

Press the clay into the item you’re accessorising, then apply any patterns you like – by hand, or using a stamp or press. Next, air dry and paint in a range of creative colours.

Ornaments

A charming house scene like the one pictured above makes a fantastic ornament for your home. Give it some extra personality by painting an imaginative pattern over it – or keep it minimal and understated. 

Make a fresh fruit bowl

DAS clay can be used to create a unique fruit bowl. Try forming the shape of your bowl first (moulding the clay around a bowl you have already is a simple method to do this), then use a cutter or tool to remove perfect circles from it, as shown above. 

Apply the disks to the rest of the bowl, dry, then paint for a wonderfully quirky home for your fruit.

 Pretty pencil sharpeners

If you’re crafting with kids, these cute pencil sharpeners can be a simple and fun project. Try using DAS Junior modelling clay and form a small design around a standard plastic pencil sharpener – animals and bugs work well here.

Home gnomes

Give your home a gnomish makeover! Create decorative gnomes using modelling clay – try making the hat, beard and body separately, then combining with a little water, drying, then applying the finishing touched with paint. 

Go for a traditional red or green, or a sparkly gold (pictured above). Don’t use your gnomes in the garden, however, as air dried clay isn’t suitable for outdoor use.

Beautiful jewellery

Watch the video above to learn how to make amazing marble-effect jewellery! Create truly unique necklaces and earrings using DAS White Modelling Clay, DAS IdeaMix and a handful of simple tools.

 Festive crafts

Whether it’s Halloween or Christmas, DAS modelling clay makes a perfect crafty activity. Create pumpkin bowls (pictured above) or homemade tree decorations that you’ll treasure for years to come.

Hand trinket tray

Make a trinket tray for your jewellery or keys with a hand-shaped trinket jar. Use your own hand as guide, then cut out the shape and pose as you like – curving the palm to cradle whatever you put inside. 

Air dry, then paint with colourful, creative patterns and voila – never lose your keys again.

How to use DAS modelling clay

DAS modelling clay is super simple to use. It’s already in a malleable state, so you can shape it using your hands, cut it using modelling tools, or try using premade metal shapes (cookie cutters work well).

Top tip: When you’re attaching different pieces of clay together (like the bottom to the sides of plant pot, for example), try add a small amount of water. This loosens the clay and can help two pieces meld together.

What you’ll need to use DAS modelling clay

You’ll only need a handful of tools and materials to get the best out of DAS modelling clay:

And a choice of:

How long does DAS modelling clay take to dry?

Depending on the size of your model or sculpture, a piece made with DAS modelling clay should dry in 24 hours, per cm thickness. So, the thicker your clay, the longer it will take to harden. 

Once dry, you can paint and decorate your clay. Wait until it’s fully dry to the touch and doesn’t move or warp when you touch it.

Decorating your DAS modelling clay

Whatever you've decided to create, there’s a recommended way to paint your DAS modelling creation.

Do I need a base layer before painting?

Adding a layer of acrylic paint as a base layer can create a more professional effect. Building up layers of paint can improve the appearance of the pigment and make the final result more eye-catching. 

If you’re using watercolours, there’s no need for a base layer. You can paint directly onto the fully dried clay. The colour will seep into the clay almost immediately, just be careful not to smudge!

 What paint should I use with modelling clay?

You have a huge number of options when you’re decorating a dried clay model. Try using brush pens, watercolours and acrylics to perfect you creation. 

How do I varnish or gloss my modelling clay?

You can add a layer of varnish to give your model a glossy appearance and protect the paintwork. Luckily, there’s lots of options:

  • Artist’s varnish will work on dried and painted modelling clay, especially with acrylics.
  • Try using clear nail varnish on smaller items, as this will work as a varnish alternative.

You may need to use multiple layers of varnish to get a complete, robust seal.

Does DAS modelling clay air dry?

DAS modelling clay is air drying, so it will harden when left out. One thing to remember is that DAS modelling clay may shrink a little as it dries. 

Another, is that if you want to rearrange or change your design, placing air drying clay back into water will reactive it. It will become pliable against after soaking, so you can make changes to your sculpture (do this before painting of course!).

Do you need to bake DAS modelling clay?

No, there’s no need to bake DAS modelling clay, you can simply leave it out to harden.