Clay Koru necklaces

Supplies

• Air-dry clay

• Rolling pin (or smooth cup/bottle)

• Plastic knife or clay tools

• Koru templates (optional – can freehand)

• Skewer, straw, or toothpick (to make hole for string)

• Paints (acrylics or poster paints)

• Paintbrushes

• Clear PVA glue or varnish (optional for shine)

• Cord, leather thong, or string for necklace

Steps

1. Prepare clay – Take a small piece of air-dry clay and roll it out to about 5mm thick.

2. Shape koru – Either roll the clay into a snake shape and curl it into a koru spiral, or cut out a koru shape using a template.

3. Smooth edges – Use damp fingers to smooth out cracks and tidy edges.

4. Add hole – Use a skewer/straw to carefully make a hole at the top (large enough for your necklace cord).

5. Drying – Leave to air-dry for 24–48 hours until completely hard.

6. Decorate – Once dry, paint your koru in greens, whites, or your own choice of colours. Add patterns or dots if desired.

7. Seal – Brush with clear PVA glue or varnish for shine and protection (optional).

8. String it – Thread cord through the hole, tie knots to adjust the length, and wear your necklace proudly!