DIY Air Dry Clay Pots – Easy Cottagecore Topiary Planters

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If you’ve been around here long enough, you know I love a good craft—especially one that feels earthy, vintage-inspired, and charmingly imperfect. That’s why air dry clay has become one of my absolute favorite materials to work with lately. I’ve made everything from ornaments and ring dishes to little houses and diffusers, and this time around, I decided to try my hand at some sweet little clay pots. And let me tell you… they turned out so cute!

These DIY clay pots are perfect for a tabletop topiary, faux greenery, or even as a decorative catchall. The best part? No kiln or baking required. Just some air dry clay and a little patience.

Here are the supplies you'll need:

• DAS air dry clay Buy Air Dry DAS Clay Here
• Rolling pin
• Popsicle sticks
• Ruler
• Knife
• Bottle the diameter you want your pot to be
• Round cookie cutter, lid, etc.
• Wax paper and/or parchment paper and tape
• Water
• Jute
• Optional: moss, floral foam, faux boxwood or clippings from your yard
• Grab your own faux boxwood stems or other greenery here

Step 1: Roll It Out

Start by rolling out a good chunk of clay on parchment paper. (Skip the wax paper here—it doesn’t hold up well when wet.) Use popsicle sticks as guides to roll the clay to an even thickness. Make sure to roll it wider and taller than you'll need, since you'll trim it down later.

Step 2: Measure and Cut

Measure the circumference of the bottle and cut a clay rectangle that’s just a bit longer—about 1–2 cm extra is perfect. Then measure and cut the height of your pot. Use a ruler and knife to keep the edges nice and straight.

Remove the excess clay.

Step 3: Wrap 

Wrap your bottle (the one you’ll use as a mold) with a strip of parchment paper—this will keep the clay from sticking. Make sure to tape the parchment paper to itself only, not directly to the bottle.

Step 4 : Wrap and Seal

Wrap your clay rectangle around the parchment-covered bottle. You’ll likely have a small overlap or gap at the seam, and that’s totally fine. 

Use your knife to gently “stitch” the edges together—just small cuts up and down the seam to help them blend. Then dip your finger in water and smooth the seam until it disappears. You can also smooth the top edge with water for a cleaner look.

Step 5: Add a Rolled Edge (Optional)

I wanted a little rolled edge detail at the top, so I used some jute twine and gently pressed it into the clay all the way around, keeping it evenly spaced from the top. Be careful not to press too deeply—just enough to leave a subtle indentation. 

I then used some water and smoothed that out as well.

Step 6: Create the Bottom

Roll out another piece of clay and use a cookie cutter or lid that’s the same size or slightly larger than your pot's opening to cut a circle for the base. 

Place your pot on top of the circle and trim any excess. 

Then score around the seam where the pot meets the base (just like you did for the side seam) and smooth with water to join the pieces securely.

Step 7: Let It Dry

Allow the clay to dry for 24 to 48 hours. Once it’s fully hardened, gently remove the pot from the bottle by twisting and pulling down.

Step 8: Add the Topiary

Now for the fun part—turning your pot into a mini topiary! Cut a small piece of floral foam to fit inside the pot. I used a clipping of boxwood from my backyard, but faux greenery works beautifully too. Insert it into the foam and top it off with some moss for a cozy, natural look. Finish with a simple jute bow for extra charm.

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Ideas for Variations

This clay pot tutorial is just the beginning. You can get so creative with these!

• Add texture with lace or stamps before the clay dries
• Paint them in soft pastels, neutrals, or even a distressed whitewash
• Etch names or words into the clay before drying for personalized gifts
• Try a scalloped edge or ruffled top for a romantic cottagecore vibe
• Make a whole set in different sizes for tiered displays

Pin for later: 

This is a perfect weekend project that adds charm and character to any corner of your home—whether it's your mantel, shelves, or dining table.

Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”