Looking for a sweet and easy gift for Dad? This fun air-dry clay magnet is just the thing! It’s shaped like a hand with the finger pointing up to show Dad is #1 – because he is!
You don’t need a lot of stuff, and it’s fun for kids to make (with a little help from a grown-up). Let’s get started!
Materials You’ll Need:
- Air-dry clay
- A rolling pin
- A knife or clay tool
- Sandpaper
- Acrylic paint
- Magnet (small flat one works best)
- Clear sealer (optional, for extra shine
- Black pen or marker
- Hand template or freestyle
- Craft glue
These are products I am using myself, however there are lots of other good options. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Here is your Template:

Steps to Make Your Father’s Day Magnet
1. Roll the Clay
Use a rolling pin to flatten your air-dry clay until it’s about as thick as a cookie.
2. Cut Out the Hand Shape
Place your printed hand template on top of the clay. Carefully cut around it using a safe plastic knife or clay tool. Ask a grown-up for help if needed!
3. Let It Dry
Lay your clay piece flat on a table and let it dry completely. This usually takes about a day—just be patient!
4. Smooth the Edges (Grown-ups Only!)
Once the clay is dry, a grown-up can gently sand any rough edges outside to make it nice and smooth.
5. Time to Paint!
Use acrylic paints to decorate your hand shape. You can paint it like a real finger or use bright, fun colors! Let it dry fully before moving on.
6. Add the Details
Use a black pen or marker to draw a fingernail and write #1 Dad on the front.
7. Attach the Magnet
Flip your hand shape over and glue a small magnet to the back. Let the glue dry completely so it sticks well.
8. Make It Shine (Optional)
Want to make your magnet extra strong or shiny? Ask a grown-up to help you brush on a clear sealer like Mod Podge or varnish.
Wrap your magnet in a little box or give it with a homemade card. However you do it, Dad will love that you made something just for him!

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