Kawaii Fridge Magnets DIY: Air Dry Clay Craft Tutorial

Updated at: 18/03/2025

Transform your kitchen into a whimsical wonderland with these adorable kawaii fridge magnets! This fun and easy DIY project uses air-dry clay, allowing you to unleash your creativity and craft unique, personalized magnets in a variety of charming designs. Forget mass-produced, boring magnets – get ready to create miniature masterpieces that perfectly capture your personality and style. Whether you're a seasoned crafter or a complete beginner, this tutorial will guide you through the process of sculpting, decorating, and magnetizing your kawaii clay creations.

From cute animals and delicious treats to quirky characters and vibrant landscapes, the possibilities are endless! This project is perfect for a relaxing afternoon crafting session, a fun activity with friends or family, or even a creative way to add a personal touch to your gifts. Let's dive into the step-by-step process and start making your own collection of kawaii fridge magnets!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Air dry clay
  • Rolling pin
  • Cookie cutters
  • Acrylic paints
  • Glitter nail polish
  • Dotting tool
  • 3D paint (puppy paint)
  • Ground puffy paint
  • Magnets
  • Hot glue
Safety Guidelines
  • Air dry clay can crack if it dries too quickly. Ensure even drying by avoiding direct sunlight or heat and turning the magnets periodically.
  • Always supervise children when using air dry clay and ensure they do not ingest it. Keep clay and finished magnets away from pets.
  • Use a non-toxic, food-safe varnish or sealant if you intend to use the magnets near food or small children to prevent accidental ingestion of potentially harmful materials.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Clay

    • Prepare air dry clay. Roll it out evenly with a rolling pin.
    Prepare air dry clay. Roll it out evenly with a rolling pin.
    Prepare the Clay

  2. Cut and Shape the Clay

    • Use cookie cutters to create desired shapes (e.g., stars, donuts).
    • Make a hole in the middle of round shapes to create donuts.
    Make a hole in the middle of round shapes to create donuts.Make a hole in the middle of round shapes to create donuts.
    Cut and Shape the Clay

  3. Air Dry the Clay

    • Let the clay shapes air dry completely for 48 hours.
    Let the clay shapes air dry completely for 48 hours.
    Air Dry the Clay

  4. Decorate the Star

    • paint a star purple, add glitter, then paint on a kawaii face.)
    Decorate the shapes. (Example: paint a star purple, add glitter, then paint on a kawaii face.)
    Decorate the Star

  5. Decorate the Donut

    • paint beige, add 3D frosting, and chocolate sprinkles.)
    Decorate the donut shapes. (Example: paint beige, add 3D frosting, and chocolate sprinkles.)
    Decorate the Donut

  6. Decorate Other Shapes

    • paint a heart with rainbow stripes.)
    Decorate other shapes. (Example: paint a heart with rainbow stripes.)
    Decorate Other Shapes

  7. Seal the Decorations

    • Apply a clear glitter sealant to the finished decorations.
    Apply a clear glitter sealant to the finished decorations.
    Seal the Decorations

  8. Attach Magnets

    • Attach magnets to the back of the dried clay shapes using hot glue or a strong adhesive.
    Attach magnets to the back of the dried clay shapes using hot glue or a strong adhesive.
    Attach Magnets

Read more: Hang Your Clay Creations: The No-Hole Hanger Method

Tips

  • For even thickness, roll the clay with a rolling pin.
  • Ensure to paint all sides and backs of your shapes for a professional look.
  • Let the paint dry completely between layers for a neat finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Clay Cracking During Drying

Reason: Uneven drying or insufficient moisture in the clay.
Solution: Cover the clay shapes with a damp cloth or plastic wrap to slow down drying and ensure even moisture distribution.

2. Magnets Not Sticking Strongly

Reason: Insufficient magnet strength or improper magnet placement.
Solution: Use stronger magnets and ensure they are securely embedded within the air-dry clay before it fully hardens.

3. Shapes Losing Their Detail

Reason: Handling the clay too much before it's firm enough or pressing too hard during shaping.
Solution: Gently shape the clay and avoid touching it excessively; use tools for detailed work.

FAQs

How long does it take for the air-dry clay to completely dry?
Drying time depends on the thickness of your clay pieces and the humidity of your environment. Generally, it takes anywhere from 24 to 72 hours. Thicker pieces will naturally take longer.
What kind of paint is best for decorating the air-dry clay magnets?
Acrylic paints are ideal for air-dry clay. They are vibrant, durable, and easy to work with. Make sure to let the paint dry completely before adding a sealant or magnetizing your pieces.