How to Paint and Seal Christmas Clay Ornaments So They Last for Years

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best sealant for air dry clay ornaments?
For the longest-lasting results, a water-based polyurethane or acrylic spray sealer is the best sealant for air dry clay ornaments, since it’s more water- and humidity-resistant than Mod Podge or plain glue and won’t yellow with age.

Can you use acrylic paint on clay ornaments?
Yes — acrylic paint is the best paint for clay Christmas ornaments. It’s flexible, dries quickly, and holds color well once sealed with two to three coats of a clear sealer.

How do you keep clay ornaments from cracking?
Make sure the clay is completely dry (or fully baked) before painting, keep the clay at a consistent thickness of at least 1/4 inch, avoid drying it in direct sunlight or a hot oven too quickly, and handle it gently until it’s fully cured.

How long do homemade clay ornaments actually last?
With clay that’s fully cured before painting, acrylic paint, and two to three coats of a quality sealer, homemade clay ornaments can realistically last for decades with proper storage between seasons.

Do you need to seal both air dry clay and salt dough ornaments?
Yes. Both air dry clay and baked salt dough are porous and will absorb moisture and lose their color over time without a sealer, so sealing is essential for any clay ornament you want to keep for more than one Christmas.

Whether you’re working with air dry clay, salt dough, or polymer clay, the formula is the same: dry or bake it fully, sand it smooth, paint it with acrylic, and seal it with two to three thin coats of a quality sealer. Follow those four steps and this year’s clay ornaments can become next decade’s family keepsakes. And if this one hooked you, my air dry clay croissant magnets tutorial is a fun next project for the leftover clay.

— Jennifer Dawn