Last year, I shared a project I did with air dry clay (you can find it at the craft stores). This stuff is great for fixing little boo-boos around the house. I used it to fix a broken handle on an urn in that post and recently did a couple more things with this versatile stuff. You can mold and shape it into whatever you want and this time I used it on paper mache and pottery, so take a look at the results.
I forgot to take a before pic of this trashcan, but you get the idea. I gave my sister a monogrammed paper mache trash can (blogged about the shop here) just like mine a couple of years ago for Christmas from The Royal Standard (unfortunately, they closed the store here in Birmingham, but are still in LA). Her rambunctious and young at the time dog, Holly, decided to take some chomps out of it (why, I don’t know?), so it was pretty ugly looking with the paper showing through and a big bite out of it in 2 places and wouldn’t you know it, it was right on the monogram?!
I also had this cute pottery bird piece that I picked up at a yardsale and the tail was broken, so I figured while I was at it, I’d fix this too. So, out came the air dry clay and I molded it to fit both pieces. It smooths out to the touch and you can really make it do anything you want. I thought the little bird’s tail looked pretty realistic and much like the other one. Let it all dry well.
Then, get out the craft paints or leftover wall paint, whatever matches and paint right over the white clay after it’s dry. I used my wall paint that was a pretty good match. I didn’t try to get the glazing streaks in there, since it was a pretty good match without it.
Then, my Ralph Lauren Turett Stairs was a perfect match for the chocolate brown monogram. Filled that in, as well as the edging on the trash can and it really looks almost new again, don’t you think? My sis was thrilled that I fixed it for her.
You can hardly tell that it’s been repaired and touched up at all.
Same with the birdie’s tail, I got out my craft paints (which I’ve had for years) and found a blue to match him.
Paint it on and let dry well and they’re both good to go now. I even added some glossy mod podge on his tail so it would be shiny like the rest of him. Clever, huh?
I’ve got plenty of craft paint around for things like this and can usually match up just about any color.
So, do you have anything broken that needs to be fixed? This air dry clay is great stuff and I’d urge you to give it a try!
Linked to Kimba’s DIY Day party!
I’ve got a fab giveaway from one of my sponsors tomorrow, so you will not want to miss it! Come on back to see me.
Now that is definitely something to remember is available for all those little things that need fixed. Thanks
Rhoda, these are great fixes! Never would have thought to use the clay, and unless you’re looking for the fix on your birdie and trash can, you can’t find it, great job!
Thanks Rhoda for sharing this product and technique. I am so impressed!! You have inspired me and opened up a whole world of possibilities. What do you do for wooden pieces that have missing spots?
I’m so glad you shared how to use air dry clay months ago when you used it for your urn. Because of you I knew exactly how to fix a cracked spot on a lamp that I purchased at the thrift store. It worked so well that you have to look really hard to find the repair.
I’ve used that stuff for craft projects quite a bit over the years. It really is great stuff!
Wow! Even being a seasoned crafter (well, maybe I am giving myself a little too much credit) didn’t know such a glorious project exists! That bird looks perfect!
VERY clever. You did a great job on both. I’m always so sad when something I like breaks and THEN what do you do with it. I know just what I’m going to use this trick on – thank you!
Hi Rhoda,
I’m definiely going to be looking for this stuff for the tureen I just got with the chipped handle.
Thanks, Girl!
That stuff is fantastic. Your repairs look great, you can’t even tell they were damaged.
Adding my sincerest thanX for this eXcellent tip! I’ll be treasure hunting with broader vision, armed with this versatile product for fiXing imperfections in my crafty toolboX!
Very talented lady you are!
sandy toe
Thanks for this great tip. I will be on the lookout for this wonder stuff!! I know about the craft paints. I have trays and trays of craft paint to match anything. I am known on another message board as the Paintlady. I do love to paint, but my interests are many. I love visiting your blog and have for over a year. This is my first post though!
Hi Rhoda…very interesting! I’ll have to remember this stuff…you did a great job on the repairs!
Susan
Thanks for featuring this versatile product! I recently purchased two pottery birds at an estate sale. I didn’t notice until I brought the birds home that someone (probably long ago) had repaired the beak of one bird with silicone caulk. I pulled off the caulk and tried Sculpey, but the heat-set aspect made this fix imperfect because I didn’t want to set the whole pottery piece in my oven.
Wow!! Not only are you “Super Flea” you are “Miss Fix It” as well! I am so happy…I felt like doing a little shopping of my own today…went to Goodwill…found some cute things…stopped off at Walmart for some black spray paint…woowoo…a great day for me!! I might try and send ya some pictures…I’m not a photographer though…we’ll see…take care and God bless…Robyn F.
Hey Rhoda, that clay is cool! Why have I never seen or heard of that before? So many things I could fix–Do you know how many boys I have around this house? Not to mention four cats and my crazy dog! I will so be buying some of this to keep on hand.
BTW–I’m having an Uppercase Living giveaway tomorrow!
Thanks again,
~Misti
I am so glad I saw this post. I just picked up this beautiful breakfast tray with a ding in the corner for my ottoman at Hobby Lobby for 80% off. And I have been trying to figure out a way to repair it ever since.
Thanks,
Annette
What a useful tip, I’ve never used this before but will look into it now for those fast fixes! Thanks for sharing.
I used that paper clay to make Harry Potter Wands. It was great fun. Never thought about using it to make repairs.
I’m having a giveaway too. Please come over and join me. I’ll be back tomorrow to see what you are offering. Can’t wait.
Thanks for sharing that product. I will certainly give it a try. Something is always needing to be repaired around our house. Love & blessings from NC!