5 Easy Christmas Crafts with Air-Dried Clay, Papier-Mâché and Natural Spices

There are so many lovely ways of making your own Christmas decorations, and I love it! The quiet rhythm of crafting, the scent of cinnamon in the air, and the pleasure of creating something that feels both personal and timeless.

This year, I wanted to focus on handmade projects using simple, natural materials such as air-dried clay, papier-mâché, and dried spices. Each one adds warmth and texture to the season, and they’re all easy to make at home.

1. Air-Dried Clay Star Ornaments

Air-dried clay is one of my favourite materials to work with. It’s soft, easy to shape, and doesn’t require baking.

How to:

Roll out a piece of clay to around 5mm thick and use cookie cutters to create stars or trees. Press in a few sprigs of dried herbs such as rosemary or thyme to add a gentle pattern and scent. Leave them to dry on baking paper for 24 hours. Once hardened, thread twine or linen ribbon through a small hole at the top.

Tip: Brush lightly with matte varnish for a smooth, ceramic-like finish.

2. Papier-Mâché Christmas Tree with Gold Leaf

Papier-mâché is a brilliant way to reuse old newspaper and cardboard, and it gives a wonderfully organic texture once painted.

How to:

Start by rolling a piece of thin cardboard into a cone shape and securing it with tape. Mix equal parts of PVA glue and water, then dip torn strips of newspaper into the mixture. Layer over the cone until it’s completely covered.

Once dry, paint the surface in a soft, neutral tone, such as off-white or sage green. Add subtle touches of gold leaf around the edges for a festive shimmer.

Display Idea: Group a few trees in different sizes on your mantel or as a table centrepiece — they look beautiful when paired with small glass jars or candles.

3. Dried Citrus & Spice Garland

Few things smell more like Christmas than dried oranges and cinnamon. This garland is simple, aromatic, and can be reused each year if stored carefully.

How to:

Slice the oranges into thin rounds and bake at a low temperature until they are completely dry. Thread the slices onto jute twine along with cinnamon sticks, star anise, bay leaves, or dried apple rings.

Alternate the textures and colours as you go.

Display Idea: Drape the garland across a mantelpiece, window frame, or along a staircase bannister for a rustic, naturally scented decoration.

4. Papier-Mâché Garland Stars and Mini Christmas Trees

This project combines the charm of papier-mâché with the simplicity of small shapes, perfect for creating garlands, hanging decorations, or adding a touch of style to your table.

How to:

Prepare a papier-mâché pulp by soaking torn paper in warm water, then blending it with a little glue. Press the pulp into cookie cutters or silicone moulds shaped like stars and trees. Once dry, paint in muted festive shades such as stone, white, or sage, and add hints of gold leaf to the edges.

Display Idea: Thread the stars and trees onto twine to make a garland, hang from a branch display, or scatter across your Christmas table for an understated, handmade look.

5. Mini Clay Candle Holders

These tiny tealight holders bring warmth to any corner. The clay naturally complements botanical or minimalist décor.

How to:

Form small discs or rings from air-dried clay and press a tealight gently into the centre while the clay is still soft. Decorate by pressing in lace, herbs, or spice pods for texture. Once dry, remove the tealight and let the holder cure completely before sealing.

Safety Tip: Use only metal-cased tealights and place them on a heatproof surface away from greenery or paper.

Final Thoughts

What I love about these crafts is their versatility; you can keep them minimalist and neutral, or add colour, gold leaf, and natural fragrance for a more festive feel. They also create lovely handmade gifts, such as a garland tied with jute string, a set of clay stars wrapped in linen, or a small tree ornament accompanied by a candle.

This Christmas, let your decorations tell a story, one made from simple materials, quiet creativity, and a touch of warmth from your own hands.

5 Easy Christmas Crafts FAQ

1. How long does air-dried clay take to dry?

Typically, 24–48 hours, depending on thickness. Turn the pieces occasionally for even drying.

2. Can I make papier-mâché without PVA glue?

Yes. You can mix plain flour, water, and a bit of salt into a paste for a natural, glue-free version.

3. How can I make my dried orange slices last longer?

Bake them slowly at a low temperature (around 90°C) until they are completely dry, then store them in an airtight container.

4. Can these crafts be made with children?

Absolutely. Clay and papier-mâché projects are perfect for family craft days. Just supervise younger children when using gold leaf or scissors.

5. How do I store handmade decorations after Christmas?

Keep them in a dry box or tin, layered with paper to prevent damage. Avoid damp areas as natural materials can absorb moisture.