Toddler Crafts: Clay Hand Prints

Finding a craft that is easy and safe enough for toddlers can be hard. Clay Hand Prints are a great craft for toddlers. They are a great craft for children of all ages and are safe, easy, and require little clean up.

Handprints for Toddlers

What you will need:
1/2 cup flour
1/3 cup cornstarch
1/2 cup salt
1/3 cup warm water

1 glass pie plate or any other dish you desire that you is big enough to place both

hands in that can be used as a mold

Pencil or other sharp object in order to write in the dough

12 inches of thin ribbon, yarn or string.

Optional:

Food Coloring (can also use Kool-Aid)

Glitter

Jewels

Paints

Or any other craft items to decorate

Mix ingredients together. Add warm water gradually until the mixture can be kneaded into a stiff dough. If the dough is sticky, dust with dry flour.

After creating your dough, dust the inside of the mold (Greasing is not recommend since it may leave grease stains on your finished piece.)

Work mixture into your mold. Leave approximately ½ inch from the top to allow for the rising when printing hands. Smooth the surface and insure that there are no bubbles or air pockets.

Have your child place both hands evenly into the mixture and press down firmly ½ inch. Slowly remove the child's hands.

At this point, use your pencil or sharp object to write a message on the front. Something like your child's name, the date, or a favorite saying would do great.

After, your message is in place, take your pencil and carefully create a small hole in the top of the piece big enough to slide the ribbon through. During this time you can place beads, jewels, glitter and other craft items on your piece.

Allow at least 48 hours for the clay to dry before removing from the mold. Depending on the depth of your mold, it may take a few extra hours. Once dry, string the ribbon through the hole and tie a not at the end creating a loop for hanging. This is also the best time to paint the piece if you plan on doing so.

Once you have finished your piece, you now have a great piece of memorabilia. Something you and your child can keep for ever. Not to mention, they feel like they have done a great job. These are also great for Mother's Day and Father's Day gifts, for grandmas and grandpas or for anyone else deserving a special gift!