Looking for a creative way to display your decorated Easter eggs or organize small items around the house? These DIY air-dry clay egg trays are the perfect project! You can keep them simple with air-dry clay or take it up a notch by adding a touch of personality with decoupage.

Materials Needed:

• Air-dry clay (about ½ lb)
• Empty cardboard egg carton (6 or 12 count)
• Rolling pin
• Sharp knife or craft blade
• Scissors
• Acrylic paints (optional)
• Paintbrushes (optional)
• Napkin for decoupage (optional)
• Decoupage glue or Mod Podge (optional)
• Varnish or sealant (optional)
• Sandpaper (optional)

Instructions for Air-Dry Clay Egg Tray:

1. Prepare the Egg Carton Mold:
   
   • Cut off the lid and any flaps from the egg carton, leaving just the base with the egg cup impressions. This will be your mold.
2. Roll Out the Clay:
   
   • On a clean surface, roll out the air-dry clay to about ¼-inch thickness. Make sure the clay sheet is large enough to cover the entire egg carton base with some overhang.
3. Mold the Clay Over the Carton:
   
   • Gently lay the rolled-out clay over the egg carton base. Press the clay into each egg cup depression, making sure it fits snugly into the contours.
4. Trim the Edges:
   
   • Use a sharp knife to trim the excess clay around the edges for a clean, polished look.
5. Dry and Sand:
   
   • Let the clay dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually 24-48 hours). Once dry, remove the cardboard mold and gently sand any rough edges.

Optional: Decoupage for a Personal Touch

For an extra pop of color or pattern, try decoupaging your tray:

1. Choose Your Napkin:
   
   • Pick a decorative napkin with a design you love. Florals, pastels, or even vintage prints work beautifully.
2. Apply the Napkin:
   
   • Once the tray is completely dry, brush a thin layer of decoupage glue (like Mod Podge) onto the surface of the tray. Gently press the napkin onto the tray, smoothing out any wrinkles or bubbles.
3. Seal the Design:
   
   • Once the napkin is fully dry, add another layer of Mod Podge on top to seal the design and protect it.
4. Add a Finishing Coat:
   
   • If you want a more durable finish, add a final coat of clear varnish or sealant.

Finishing Touches:

• Sand any rough edges for a smooth finish.
• Add a bit of acrylic paint for color or metallic accents if you like.
• Display your new egg tray proudly – it’s perfect for Easter, spring decor, or everyday organization!

This project is perfect for a cozy craft night or a creative way to repurpose old egg cartons. Would you like me to add a few styling ideas for how to use these trays around the house?

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