If you have ever looked at a handmade ceramic vase and thought you could do that, this kit is the chance to find out. It contains everything needed to make four pieces from self-hardening clay: a bowl, a candleholder and two vases. There is no wheel, kiln or studio involved, just clay, paint, brushes, modelling tools, a candle cuff and a plastic bottle, plus step-by-step instructions to take you through it.
The kit teaches two classic hand-building methods, which is where its real value lies. The sausage technique, building up a form from rolled coils of clay, is used for the candleholder and a vase. The slab technique, cutting and joining flat sheets of clay, is used for a vase or the bowl. Between them, they are the foundation of most hand-built pottery, so what you learn here carries over to any clay project you try afterwards. Because the clay is self-hardening, it dries on its own without firing, which keeps the whole thing manageable at a kitchen table.
The style leans towards fun, asymmetric shapes and subtle colours, and a bit of wonkiness is positively encouraged. That makes it forgiving for beginners, and it means each finished piece is genuinely one-of-a-kind. Paint them in quiet tones for a calm, contemporary look, or go bolder if that suits your shelves better. Together, the finished set makes a lovely addition to a mantelpiece, windowsill or dining table, and it makes a thoughtful gift for anyone who enjoys making things or who likes handmade home decor.
Please note the candles themselves are not included. As with any candle holder, never leave a burning candle unattended and keep lit candles away from anything flammable.
- Makes four pieces in self-hardening clay: a bowl, a candleholder and two vases
- Contains clay, paint, brushes, modelling tools, candle cuff and plastic bottle
- Step-by-step instructions covering the sausage and slab techniques
- No kiln or oven needed
- Candles not included
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the kit make?
Four pieces: a bowl, a candleholder and two vases. The instructions show which technique to use for each one.
What is included?
Self-hardening clay, paint, brushes, modelling tools, a candle cuff and a plastic bottle, along with instructions. Candles are not included.
What techniques will I learn?
The sausage technique, where coils of clay are built up to form walls, and the slab technique, where flat sheets of clay are cut and joined. These are two of the most widely used hand-building methods in pottery, so they are useful well beyond this kit.
Do I need a kiln?
No. The clay is self-hardening, so it dries hard at room temperature and does not need firing. Allow the pieces to dry fully before painting them.
Is it suitable for beginners?
Yes. The instructions are step-by-step and the style is deliberately relaxed, so small imperfections and uneven shapes add to the look rather than spoil it. No previous experience with clay is needed.
Are the pieces waterproof?
Self-hardening clay is not fired, so the finished pieces are intended for decoration and not for holding liquids. They are best used for dried flowers and stems without water, as a bowl for small items, or as holders for candles.
