September in Bedford brings some of the prettiest little treasures from the garden. Leaves are beginning to change, herbs are still growing, and flowers may be giving us their final blooms of the season. This month, let’s preserve a little of that beauty by making botanical clay trinket dishes.
These small dishes are lovely for holding rings, keys, coins, or other odds and ends, and no two will turn out exactly alike.
You’ll need:
- Air-dry clay
- Rolling pin or smooth bottle
- Small leaves, herbs, or flowers
- A small bowl
- Craft knife or butter knife
- Acrylic paint (optional)
- Clear craft sealer (optional)
Begin by rolling a piece of air-dry clay until it’s about 1/4-inch thick. Choose a small leaf, fern, herb sprig, or sturdy flower and gently press it into the clay with your rolling pin. Carefully lift the plant away, leaving its shape and texture behind.
Use a small bowl as a guide to cut the clay into a circle. Place your clay circle inside the bowl and gently press it down so the edges curve upward. Allow it to dry completely according to the clay manufacturer’s directions.
Once dry, leave your dish natural for a simple look or lightly paint the raised and indented details. A clear craft sealer can provide a finished appearance.
Children can help collect interesting leaves and press them into the clay. Older children and teens can experiment with overlapping plants, painted details, or different dish shapes.
I especially like this craft because it captures September without rushing the season. It’s a little reminder of the garden and greenery we’ve enjoyed all summer, just as Bedford begins its slow turn toward fall.
