In very unsurprising news, moving across the country is not for the faint of heart, so I have learned. I've been having been dreaming of tex-mex and long days at the lake my sisters, but my reality has been moving boxes and logistics all the live long day! My craft supplies may be packed, but luckily Sarah is with us today sharing a super easy ceramic DIY that can take one a myriad of uses. I actually have a little dish that looks just like this one by the sink in our bathroom to hold my jewelry while I'm showering. Keep reading for the full tutorial and, most importantly, HAPPY WEEKEND!
Sarah, here! Even though our typical focus is on DIY wedding projects, my favorites are the ones that are so versatile, couples can use them in their homes for years to come! These DIY speckled ceramic dishes totally fit the bill! Each dish is custom made and unique. We also created a small lip on each dish, allowing you to use the dish for lots of things. In this tutorial we used our dishes as candle holders. They make great statement pieces, whether you are looking to dress up an end table in your house or use them as the focal point for your table scape at your wedding.
Supplies:
- Clay (I used this one)
- Two paint brushes
- Black acrylic paint (I used this one)
- A circle cut out (I used a glass)
- Water
- Mod Podge
You will start by grabbing a chunk of clay and begin working it until it appears like it is well mended together. The amount of clay you use will depend on how large you want your dish to be.
Next, begin flattening out your clay until it is about ¼ thick all around.
Grab your circle cut out and cut out a circle.
Grab your paintbrush, dip it in your water and begin dragging it near the edge of your dish (in a circular motion) to create a lip. Depending on how large you want your lip to be, will depend on how close to the edge of your dish you drag your brush. Your brush strokes will begin creating an indent in your dish. Continue dragging your brush in a circular motion until the indent is about halfway through the clay. Feel free to continue to dip your paint brush in water (as much as you need) so the brush strokes are smooth on the clay.
Now, you will want to use your fingers and begin forming your lip. Keep in mind the entire lip is not going to look exactly the same. Some of the areas my be slightly higher than others but that is what makes each dish unique. Once you have reached your desired lip, you will want to do some final touch ups.
For the final touch ups, dip your pointer finger in the water and move your finger in a circular motion to smooth out the center of your dish. Do not press very hard. You want to press just enough to slightly even out the clay. Feel free to do this along the sides (with your finger or brush) to make everything more smooth and even. Once you are satisfied, it’s time to let it dry.
Let your dish dry for half the day or until the top is dry to the touch. Then, it is time to add your dots. Dip your brush into your black acrylic paint and begin placing dots on your dish. I did a variety of shapes and sizes to keep my dish unique. After you are finished dotting your dish, let it dry for 48+ hours. Each day flip it over to allow each side to dry.
Once your dish is completely dry, you can do a coat of Mod Podge on your dish. This will protect your dish from chipping and water.
Now it’s time to use your dish (but not for eating)!
Photography and tutorial by Sarah Campbell for The Effortless Chic