DIY Snowman Ornament With Clay

Isn’t the holiday season the perfect excuse to dip into some fun DIY crafts? Christmas is almost here, and what better way to celebrate than by creating your very own DIY snowman ornament?

Meet Pavel, the happiest clay snowman ornament around, made with no-bake, lightweight air-dry foam clay! This tutorial will show you how to bring him to life, and the best part? You can also use other materials like polymer clay or play dough to craft him. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s spread some holiday cheer with Pavel!

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Why Clay Snowman Crafts Are So Fun!

Working with clay is such a delightful experience—you get to knead, roll, press, pinch, and shape it into endless creations. A little tweak here and there can give your mini snowman a completely different personality, making each piece truly one of a kind. Plus, this clay snowman craft is quick and easy, it makes thoughtful handmade gifts for your loved ones.

Like many, I used to enjoy playing with playdough with my kids, but it just didn’t last in our humid climate. That’s when I discovered lightweight air-dry clay—it’s incredibly light and doesn’t require baking. Now, we can make long-lasting creations that are both fun and decorative!

If you prefer, you can also use polymer clay (available at most craft stores) to make Pavel. It’s a bit sturdier and great for oven-baked projects. But honestly, there’s no “right” material—just go with what feels comfortable and fits your crafting style.

Meet Pavel, the Dancing Snowman!

Pavel is no ordinary snowman—he’s a bundle of joy who loves Christmas and the frosty winter season. He’s a little wobbly when he’s excited, twisting and rocking his clay body as he spreads holiday cheer. Pavel is here to add some handmade magic to your Christmas decor or even to be a charming keychain or gift tag.

So, let’s get crafting and bring this jolly little snowman to life!

What Supplies Do You Need?

1. Extra lightweight air-dry foam clay:

You’ll need lightweight air-dry clay in white, black, orange, yellow, brown, and green. We found an extra-lightweight version at the craft store, making Pavel perfect as a keychain or hanging snowman ornament—it’s super light and easy to work with!

2. Black beads:

Prepare two 3mm black beads for Pavel’s eyes. They add a polished touch and are easy to work with.

3. Eye pin, keychain ring,

If you’re planning to make Pavel a hanging ornament or keychain, you’ll need:

• A small eye pin
• A keychain ring
• Jewelry pliers (to attach the ring securely).

4. Accessories:

We lucked out and found a small toy walking stick that’s the perfect size for Pavel! If you’re not as fortunate, no problem—you can craft one using copper wire wrapped with clay.

5. Simple Tools

You won’t need fancy tools for this project—just items you likely have at home:

• Toothpick (for details like eyebrows or arms).
• Pen lid or drinking straw (to shape the mouth).

That’s it! With these simple materials and tools, you’re ready to bring Pavel the snowman to life!

DIY Snowman Ornament Tutorial

Step 1: Prepare the Materials

Before starting, prepare the materials and tools listed above. Since the clay is air-drying, ensure it stays soft and pliable by sealing it in plastic bags, airtight containers, or wrapping it in cling film.

Knead the clay to soften and smoothen its texture as needed.

Step 2: Shape the Snowman

Divide the white clay into four parts: one small, two medium, and one large.

Roll each part into a ball.

Stack the clay balls to form the snowman’s body.

You can stack them straight or slightly offset (zig-zag style) for a whimsical look like what I did.

Step 3: Create the Snowman’s Face

Add the Eyes by pressing small beads into the top ball to form the snowman’s eyes.

Make the nose by shaping a tiny piece of orange clay into an elongated teardrop for the nose.

Press the nose gently onto the face without bending its tip.

Use a pen cover or drinking straw to impress a smiling mouth.

Use the tip of a toothpick to gently create impressions in the eyebrows.

Step 4: Add Buttons and Arms

Roll two small balls from green clay and one from brown clay.

Flatten them slightly with your thumb.

Place the flattened pieces onto the snowman’s body and poke two small holes into each to create a button-like effect.

Roll two long sticks and two shorter sticks from brown clay.

Attach the shorter sticks to the long ones to create branch-like arms.

Lightly press the pieces together to hold them in place.

Poke small holes at the sides of the snowman’s body (“shoulders”) and insert the arms.

Step 5: Make and Attach the Hat

Roll one small and one slightly larger ball from black clay.

Flatten the larger ball to create the hat’s brim.

Shape the smaller ball into a short cylinder for the top of the hat.

Press the cylinder onto the flattened brim to assemble the hat.

Press the bottom of the hat with a pen cover to create a slight curve that fits the snowman’s head.

Lightly press the hat onto the snowman’s head to secure it.

Step 6: Add a Scarf and Optional Decorations

Roll yellow clay into a long, thin strip.

Wrap the strip around the snowman’s neck as a scarf.

Use a toothpick to impress a textured pattern into the scarf.

Add optional accessories to decorate the hat, such as two tiny clay balls.

If you plan to make it a hanging ornament, insert an eye pin into the snowman’s hat.

Step 7: Dry and Finish

Leave the snowman to air dry at room temperature for at least 24 hours.

If making a keychain charm, attach the keyring after the clay has dried completely.

Pavel is now ready to display or gift as a charming handmade piece!

What’s Next:

• Get started on making Pavel the snowman and share your completed creation on Facebook or Instagram. Don’t forget to tag us @craftpassion so we can admire your work and share the joy!
• Pin this tutorial to your Pinterest board and add it to your future crafting To-Do List.
• Spread the holiday cheer! Share this tutorial with your DIY groups and host a DIY-along event.
• Check out our other free art & craft tutorials to find exciting projects like clay crafts, Christmas crafts, and more.
• Love snowmen? Try these fun and festive snowman crafts:
  • Styrofoam Snowman
  • Crochet Snowman Amigurumi
  • Crochet Snowman Applique
  • Pom-Pom Snowman
  • Quilted Snowman Pillow

Let’s keep crafting and spreading creativity this holiday season!