Clay crafts are one of those activities I come back to every year around Valentine’s Day.
They’re hands-on, a little messy, and keep kids focused longer than you’d expect.
PIN FOR LATER 📌
I like that there’s no rush to get things perfect — if a heart comes out lopsided, it somehow makes it better.
This collection of Valentine’s Day clay crafts is full of simple projects that work for real afternoons at home, classroom craft time, or a low-key weekend activity.
These are the kinds of crafts kids get proud of, the ones that end up drying on the counter and sticking around long after the holiday passes.
Air-Dry Clay vs. Polymer Clay: What Works Best for Valentine’s Crafts?
Air-dry clay and polymer clay both work beautifully for Valentine’s crafts, but they do have a few key differences that are helpful to know before you start.
I tend to reach for air-dry clay when crafting with younger kids or when I want something simple and low-pressure. It doesn’t require baking, dries on its own, and is easy to clean up. The finished pieces are lighter and slightly more delicate, which works well for ornaments, gift tags, bowls, and keepsakes that won’t be handled too much.
Polymer clay, on the other hand, is great for projects that need more durability or detail. It stays soft until it’s baked, giving kids more time to shape and adjust their designs. Once cured, it’s sturdier and better suited for keychains, pins, jewelry, and anything that needs to hold up to everyday use.
Both are fun to work with, and honestly, it often comes down to the age of the kids and the type of project you’re making. If you want quick and easy, air-dry clay is a solid choice. If you’re aiming for long-lasting pieces with crisp details, polymer clay is worth the extra step.
15 Valentine’s Day Clay Crafts
1. Air Dry Clay Heart Keychains
These little heart keychains are fun to stamp, shape, and personalize with short messages. I like this idea for kids who love making gifts that their friends can actually use every day.
2. Air-Dry Clay Valentine’s Day Hearts
These stitched clay hearts are simple, calming, and surprisingly satisfying to make. I like this project for quieter craft time—it keeps little hands busy and leaves you with a sweet keepsake once everything dries.
3. DIY Personalized Air Dry Clay Gift Tags
These clay gift tags add such a thoughtful touch to Valentine’s gifts without much extra effort. I like how kids can stamp names or little messages, then use them year after year as keepsakes.
4. Clay Conversation Hearts
These clay conversation hearts feel like a crafty twist on the classic candy version. I love how kids can choose their own colors and phrases, then line them up once they’re dry like a little handmade Valentine display.
5. Clay Heart Pins with a Printable Card
These little clay heart pins are perfect for classroom Valentines or friend gifts. I love that they pair a simple craft with a printable card, making them easy to prep but still feel thoughtful and personal.
6. DIY Clay Gnomes
These little clay gnomes are full of charm and personality, especially with their tiny hats and sweet details. I like this project for kids who enjoy building characters—it’s creative, hands-on, and leaves plenty of room for imagination.
7. Sparkly Painted Clay Pots
These little clay pots double as both a craft and a Valentine’s gift, which I always appreciate. Add a bit of paint and glitter, tuck in some treats, and you’ve got something kids are genuinely excited to give away.
8. Easy Pinch Pot Hearts
These pinch pot hearts are a great introduction to clay crafts, especially for younger kids. I like how forgiving this project is—simple shapes, sweet little faces, and plenty of room for creativity without pressure.
9. DIY Clay Heart Mosaic Ornaments
These clay heart ornaments let kids mix colors and shapes in a way that feels relaxed and creative. I like this one because no two ever turn out the same, and they make sweet keepsakes once they’re dry.
10. DIY Air Dry Clay Valentine’s Heart Bouquet
This clay heart bouquet feels like a sweet little twist on flowers that won’t wilt. This is a great project for kids who enjoy arranging and decorating—it makes a cheerful Valentine’s decoration that lasts well beyond the day itself.
11. DIY Stamped Air Dry Clay Bowls
These stamped clay bowls feel simple in the best way. Perfect for slightly older kids because it teaches patience, leaves room for personalization, and results in something that actually gets used around the house.
12. Clay Ring Dish
This heart-shaped ring dish feels like one of those crafts kids enjoy making and adults actually keep. It’s simple to shape, easy to personalize, and ends up being genuinely useful long after Valentine’s Day.
13. Valentine’s Day Craft – Polymer Clay Hearts
These marbled polymer clay hearts are such a fun way to play with color and pattern. I like this project because kids can experiment freely, and every heart turns out a little different — no pressure, just creativity.
14. Easy DIY Valentine’s Day Bracelets
These bracelets are quick to make and surprisingly satisfying, especially for kids who love patterns and spelling out little messages. Great for Valentine’s parties or playdates because everyone can leave wearing something they made themselves.
15. Fake Bakes – Polymer Clay Valentine’s Day Cookies
These faux cookies look sweet enough to eat, but they’re made to last. I love this project for kids who enjoy the decorating part most—it’s all the fun of Valentine’s cookies without worrying about crumbs or icing mishaps.
RELATED: 32 Valentine’s Day Cookies Worth Baking (and Sharing)
SEE ALSO: