Snails might be slow, but this project is fast, fun, and perfect for little hands. Whether you’re looking for a rainy-day activity, something creative for the school holidays, or a weekend project with your kids, this Snail Bowl made from air dry clay is easy, adorable, and useful, too!
Why Snails?
Let’s be honest – snails are pretty cool. They’re like tiny garden wizards with spiral shells and secret hiding spots. And that spiral shape? It makes a surprisingly cute little bowl! Perfect for marbles, hair clips, buttons, or any other tiny treasure kids like to collect.
What You’ll Need:
- Air Dry Clay
- Rolling pin
- My free snail bowl template (or draw your own!)
- A small bowl (for shaping)
- Craft knife or clay tool
- Acrylic Paint (acrylic works great!)
- Water + paintbrushes
- Mod Podge Sealer
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.
How to Make It:
Step 1: Roll out the clay
Make it about 5 mm thick — like rolling cookie dough.
Step 2: Cut out the snail
Use the template to cut the snail shape out of the clay. Add little details like spirals, eyes, or lines with a clay tool or toothpick.
Step 3: Shape into a bowl
Gently lift your clay snail and lay it into a small bowl, so it curves into a bowl shape. Let it dry like that usually a day or two depending on your clay.
Step 4: Time to paint!
Use soft colors or go wild with rainbows — your snail, your rules. Add faces, flowers, stripes — anything goes!
Step 5: Seal it
Once the paint is dry, add a coat of sealer to protect it and make it shine. Done!
Why This Is a Great Project for Kids
- Simple steps, big reward
- Helps develop fine motor skills
- Kids love creating something they can actually use
- Great for storytelling – “What does your snail keep in its shell?”
Get the Free Template
To make things easier, I’ve created a free printable template for you.
Responses