In this post, we’re creating a simple yet charming DIY air-dry clay wall candle sconce. If you enjoy adding handmade touches to your home and have some experience working with air-dry clay, this project is just for you!
There’s something special about handmade decor. It adds warmth, personality, and a sense of craftsmanship to a home. If you love creating unique pieces, this DIY air dry clay wall candle sconce is the perfect project.
The idea sparked while scrolling through Pinterest. I kept seeing beautiful wall sconces and knew I could replicate the look with air dry clay. But instead of crafting the candle cup from clay, I had an idea—using a Christmas tree candle clip.
This small tweak made the project easier and more polished. Let’s dive in and create a charming, one-of-a-kind wall sconce.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making a DIY Air Dry Clay Wall Candle Sconce
Gathering Your Supplies for the DIY Air Dry Clay Wall Candle Sconce
Before starting, it’s best to have all your materials on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Air dry clay – I like to use Crayola
- Rolling pin – I am using a wooden dowel, but here is a great one I found on Amazon
- Wax paper or parchment paper
- Free printable pattern – subscribe to my newsletter by clicking here to get access
- Sponge – any smooth sponge will do
- X-Acto knife
- Scissors
- Christmas candle clip
- Wire cutters or needle-nose pliers
- Hot glue gun and glue
- Paints – I am using Dixie Belle Buttercream and Rub n Buff Antique Gold
- Paintbrush – Small artist brushes work great
- Book – I am using this Little Women book.
Now that you have all your supplies together, let's get our hands messy with clay.
Step 1: Rolling Out the Clay
Start with a baseball-sized ball piece of clay. Warm the ball of clay in your hands to make it more pliable. Then, place it on wax paper on a flat surface and roll it out, just like dough. Aim for an even thickness of 1/4″ to ensure durability.
Step 2: Cutting Out the Pattern
Print the pattern from my free printable library and cut it out. Place it on the rolled-out clay, smoothing it down to prevent shifting.
Step 3: Cut Around the Pattern
Next, place the pattern on the clay and begin cutting around the pattern with the xacto knife. Make sure to cut a flat edge all the way around.
Next, remove the excess clay from around the clay pattern.
Now, remove the paper pattern from the clay.
Step 4: Creating the Hanging Hole
Use a chopstick or mini straw to poke a hole near the top. Keep it about a quarter-inch from the edge to avoid breakage when hanging.
Step 5: Scoring and Folding the Sconce
Fold the template along the marked line. Flip the clay over, place the template back, and score the fold line about one-third deep with the knife. This helps create a crisp bend without breaking.
Now, we are getting ready to bend the bottom half, so grab a thick book nearby. Next, flip the clay project back over and bend the bottom half slowly and gently until it is at a 90-degree angle.
Then place the book behind it so it will stay in place.
Step 6: Smoothing and Refining the Surface
Use a damp sponge to soften any rough edges or cracks. This step ensures a polished look once dried.
Step 7: Drying the Clay Completely
Let the sconce dry undisturbed for several days. Mine took four days, but drying time varies based on thickness.
Step 8: Painting Your DIY Air Dry Clay Wall Candle Sconce
Once dry, it’s time to paint. I used Dixie Belle Buttercream and Rub n Buff Antique Gold for a timeless look. Brush on light coats and let each layer dry fully before adding another.
Check out my blog post on different types of paint for air dry clay. You might find something else that works better for your vision.
After your painted sconce is dry, you can seal it. I have a blog post with best practices for sealing air dry clay here. This step is optional. I chose not to seal mine.
Step 9: Preparing the Candle Clip Holder
While the paint dries, disassemble the Christmas tree candle clip. Use pliers to straighten the wires and separate the parts. Now you have a candle tray and holder ready to attach.
Step 10: Attaching the Candle Holder
Using a hot glue gun, attach the candle tray to the center of the folded sconce. Then, glue the candle cup to the middle of the tray. Hold it in place for a few seconds to secure.
Now let the hot glue cool and then add your candle. Isn't it pretty!
I love how this turned out. Think about painting designs on your wall sconce or giving it a beautiful color. The options are endless. Now let's look at ways to decorate with your sconce.
Decorating with Your DIY Air Dry Clay Wall Candle Sconce
Now comes the fun part—decorating! Here are a few ideas:
- Gallery Wall Accent – Pair with artword, plates, flowers or anything to create a gallery.
- Kitchen Charm – Place between cabinets for a warm glow
- Bedroom Cozy Corner – Hang above a nightstand for a soft ambiance
- Booknook Charm – Hang in your booknook for a cozy vibe
- Bookshelf Feature – Attach to a bookcase for an unexpected touch
I created a mini gallery wall with my air dry clay candle holder above my guest bedroom desk.
I paired the sconce with a small dish from my England trip, a vintage frame with a printable from my Etsy shop, and dried chamomile flowers from my pantry.
The result? A charming, cozy display.
Check out this post for my designer tips on how to hang a gallery wall!
Final Thoughts on DIY Air Dry Clay Wall Candle Sconce
This DIY air dry clay wall candle sconce turned out even better than I imagined. Handmade decor adds character, warmth, and a sense of craftsmanship to a home. And it's easy enough for beginners.
If you enjoy working with air dry clay, I highly recommend trying this project to create your own clay candle holders. It does take patience since it dries slowly, but the result is worth it.
Would you give this DIY a try? Where would you hang your candle sconce? Let me know in the comments!
If you loved this project, you might also enjoy:
- DIY Air Dry Clay Flower Frogs
- DIY Air Dry Clay Mini Heart Bowl
- DIY Air Dry Clay Garland
- DIY Air Dry Clay Wall Candle Scone: Handmade Touch for Your Home
Thanks for stopping by Summerhill! Be sure to sign up for my newsletter for more cozy DIY ideas.
Happy Decorating!
