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 sensory craft uses herbs to create natural textures" (because the smell is an important part of the session).
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