This sensory craft uses natural textures and air-drying clay to create beautiful hanging ornaments that will last for years, and can also be used to make small bowls.
This guide is part of our Sense Arts, Sport & Wellbeing programme. This activity can be done at a time that suits you, either in your own space or in an educational setting.
Who is this for?
This is a crafting activity for people who are deafblind or have complex disabilities.
Why does this make a difference?
This craft is a sensory activity that helps people learn by engaging with nature and using their senses to connect with their surroundings, exploring touch and different textures while supporting creativity and independent choice.
How to do this activity
What you’ll need
- Air-drying clay
- A cookie-cutter
- String
- Rolling pin
- A knife (blunt is fine)
- A skewer or toothpick
- A collection of herbs
- A surface for crafting that can be easily wiped clean
Step 1
Using the rolling pin, roll out a piece of clay that is around 5mm thick and big enough for the cookie cutter.
Step 2
Lay the herbs, leaves or flowers you want to use across the clay, then gently use the rolling pin to flatten them in.
Step 3
Remove the herbs. Using the cookie cutter, cut pieces out, thinking about the placement of the imprints in your shape.
Step 4
Poke a hole about 5mm from the top, and leave to dry.
Step 5
Then just thread the string through, and hang them up!
Top tips
- To make small bowls instead of hanging ornaments, gently press the clay circles over the bottom of a bowl or cupcake tray, and leave them to dry in this position – being careful not to disturb the natural imprint you made