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How to Make a Melted Snowman Clay Ornament

Are you ready to create an adorable DIY Christmas ornament that looks like a melted snowman?

This is a simple, fun project you can complete with just a few supplies and a little time.

Perfect for crafting beginners, it’s also a unique gift idea or even something you could sell on Etsy or at a holiday market.

Melted snowman clay ornament hanging on a Christmas tree, featuring a white puddle-shaped body, a smiling face with black eyes and buttons, an orange carrot nose, twig arms, and a red ribbon for hanging.

Supplies You’ll Need:

Before you start, gather the following materials. Most of these can be found at your local craft store or online.

  • Air-dry clay (white and brown)
  • Acrylic paint (black, orange, and white)
  • Sculpting tools (or toothpicks)
  • Paintbrushes (small and fine-tip)
  • Twigs (for arms)
  • Ribbon (red or any festive color)
  • Hot glue gun (or strong craft glue)
  • Rolling pin (or something to flatten clay)
  • Wire or small ornament hook
  • White Glue (for the drip effect)
  • White chalk pastel (white or light color)
  • Paint palette (or a small container)

Step 1: Roll Out the Base

  1. Take a small amount of white air-dry clay and roll it into a ball.
  2. Flatten the ball using a rolling pin to create an irregular “melted” shape. The edges don’t need to be perfect—this adds to the charm of the melted look!
a small amount of white air-dry clay rolled it into a ball. The clay is on a craft table surrounded by a toothpick, a roll of narrow red ribbon, and two tiny twigs

Step 2: Sculpt the Snowman’s Head

  1. Roll a smaller ball of white clay for the snowman’s head.
  2. Use a toothpick or sculpting tool to add texture or shape details like small dimples for character.
One small piece and 1 medium piece of white air-dry clay rolled it into a ball. The clay is on a craft table surrounded by a toothpick, a roll of narrow red ribbon, and two tiny twigs

Step 3: Add the Hat

  1. Roll out a piece of brown clay to create a hat.
    • For a simple hat, shape the clay into a short cylinder and flatten one end for the brim.
    • Add texture or patterns using your sculpting tool.
  2. Attach the hat to the snowman’s head by gently pressing it down.
A small piece of white air-dry clay rolled it into a ball. Two eyeholes are in the ball. a flat small hat made out of brown clay is attached to top. The clay is on a craft table next to two toothpicks.

Step 4: Add the Features

  1. Carrot Nose: Roll a tiny piece of orange clay into a cone shape and attach it to the center of the face.
  2. Eyes and Buttons: Use black clay to dot on eyes, a smile, and buttons. A fine-tip brush or toothpick works well for precision.

Step 5: Assemble the Arms

  1. Break twigs into small pieces for the arms.
  2. Carefully press the twigs into the sides of the melted snowman’s body. If needed, use glue to secure them in place.

Step 6: Add a Ribbon or Hook

  1. Use a wire or hook to create a loop at the top of the snowman’s head.
  2. Thread your ribbon through the loop and tie it into a bow, creating the perfect hanging ornament.
How to Make a Polymer Clay Snowman

Step 7: Add the Melting Snow Effect

  1. Once the clay has dried completely (check the package for drying times), It’s time to add the melting snow details.
  2. Prepare the Mixture: In a small container or paint palette, mix equal parts white glue and shavings of white chalk pastel. Stir until you achieve a thick, paint-like consistency.
  3. Apply the Drip Effect: Use a small paintbrush to apply the mixture to the top of the snowman’s head and body. Let the mixture naturally drip down to create a melting snow look.
  4. Adjust as Needed: Add more of the mixture for thicker drips, or tilt the snowman slightly to control the direction of the drips.
  5. Let It Dry: Allow the mixture to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Drip Effect on Clay Tutorial

Step 8: Seal (Optional)

To make the ornament last longer, apply a thin coat of craft sealant or clear varnish.

Tips for Success:

  • Short on time? Use polymer clay instead of air-dry clay for quicker results (just bake it according to the instructions). Check out the video below to see how to do it.
  • Want more sparkle? Add glitter to the wet paint or clay for a frosty look.
  • Selling these? Consider packaging the ornaments in a small box with tissue paper for a professional finish.

This melted snowman clay ornament is a charming addition to any Christmas tree. It’s simple enough for beginners yet leaves plenty of room for creativity. Whether you keep it, gift it, or sell it, this project is sure to bring smiles.

If you’re looking to turn more of your creative projects into extra income, I’ve shared tips on the most profitable crafts to sell—perfect for getting started with your crafting business. Take a look and start planning your next money-making craft!

1 small piece of white air-dry clay rolled it into a ball. 1 medium piece flattened out next to the small peice. The clay is on a craft table surrounded by a toothpick, a roll of narrow red ribbon, and two tiny twigs