Use the templates to create colourful Christmas napkin rings to dress your festive table.

YOU WILL NEED

• 120ml Chalk Paint in your chosen colours
• Matt Lacquer
• Detail Brushes
• Templates, printed onto paper
• Craft knife/scalpel or scissors
• Cutting mat if using a craft knife or scalpel
• Air-drying clay – 500g
• Clay modelling tools
• MixMat or similar non-stick mat
• Rolling pin
• 2 Mixing Sticks or similar
• Sandpaper
• Napkin rings – second-hand, bought or made
• Glue

STEP BY STEP

Download and print the templates onto paper. Cut out the bird shapes using a craft knife or scissors.

On a protective, non-stick surface such as a MixMat, roll out a large handful of air-drying clay to a thickness of 5mm. Use two Mixing Sticks as guides.

Wear gloves to avoid the clay drying out your hands. For a sharp edge on your decorations, use a knife or scalpel to cut your shapes. Keep any offcuts and remaining clay in an airtight container to prevent it drying out.

Place your templates on the clay and use a blunt knife or modelling tool to cut out the shapes. Use a cutting mat to protect your surface and remove any excess clay.

Create marks and shapes in the surface of the clay using modelling tools or the end of a paint brush. Smooth the edges and surface with a brush and water, then allow to dry for 24–48 hours, turning halfway through.

Once dry, gently sand any rough edges and remove the dust. Paint the clay shapes with your chosen Chalk Paint, using our examples as inspiration or creating your own painted style.

Paint the outside of the napkin rings and allow to dry. Glue the clay shapes in place, then seal the napkin rings and clay shapes with a coat of Matt Lacquer.