Originally, I was inspired to put a few family keepsakes into a little handmade clay dish to hold my jewelry and rings. That idea grew into something even more playful and personal when I started exploring trinkets and jewelry from the thrift shop—tiny treasure hunts waiting to become part of something new. I even found an old ceramic frame and layered it with clay to give it a fresh life!
Eventually, I got the chance to lead a workshop at a local gallery, where mostly adults joined in—each bringing their own charm. They used organic materials, thrifted trinkets, and objects from home to make trays, bowls, key holders, and even wall-hanging shelves. The creativity was contagious.
So I brought the idea home to the kids, where we made wavy “pinch pots” featuring shells—including creek mussel shells that my son had been collecting. It’s a fun and flexible project for any age and a beautiful way to preserve little memories.
Here’s how to make your own at home!
What You’ll Need:
- Air-dry clay (I love the big tub of Crayola—it’s affordable and super easy to work with)
- Mod Podge (Gloss or Super Gloss works great for sealing and giving a shiny finish)
- Trinkets, shells, beads, tiny toys—anything you love or want to preserve!
- A small bowl of water
- Optional: Acrylic paint if you want to add color
- Paintbrushes to apply Mod Podge
How to Make a Pinch Pot:
Start with a Ball: Take a small handful of clay and roll it into a ball, about the size of a clementine.
Thumb Press: Press your thumb into the center of the ball to make a deep dent—but don’t go all the way through.
Pinch the Walls: Slowly start pinching the sides with your thumb and fingers, turning the clay as you go to form a bowl shape.
Even It Out: Keep pinching and turning until the walls are about ¼ inch thick and the shape feels even.
Smooth It: Dip your finger in water and smooth out any cracks or rough edges.
Decorating with Trinkets:
Once you’ve shaped your clay, smooth it out with a damp finger or sponge. Then, press your trinkets, shells, or beads into the clay to create impressions where you want them to go.
Important Tip:
Don’t leave your trinkets in the clay while it dries! After you’ve made your imprints, gently remove the objects. Use a bit of water to smooth over any cracks created while pressing them in. Leaving items in the clay can lead to cracks as it dries.
Drying and Finishing:
- Let your clay dry fully—this usually takes about 3 days.
- Once hardened, use Mod Podge to glue your trinkets back into their spots.
- Finish by brushing a coat of Mod Podge over the whole piece to seal it and add a glossy sheen.
This is a perfect craft for turning a beach trip into a memory dish or giving new life to forgotten items from an old jewelry box or keepsake stash. Whether it becomes a ring dish, key bowl, or little altar tray, it’s a heartfelt way to mix creativity with nostalgia.
Happy making!
