Photo holders have quietly become one of those small-but-mighty decor pieces that can completely transform a space.
Forget flipping through albums on your phone—the resurgence of displaying physical photos has us all scrambling for creative (and aesthetically pleasing) ways to showcase our favorite memories. 😊
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Clay photo holders hit that sweet spot between functional and sculptural, turning your desk, shelf, or mantel into a mini gallery moment.
Plus, making your own means you get complete control over the shape, color, and vibe. Abstract and minimalist, playfully organic, or sleek and architectural—clay is forgiving enough for beginners but versatile enough to let your creativity run wild.
That’s why I’ve compiled 10 DIY clay photo holder ideas that range from beginner-friendly to slightly more ambitious.
Let’s get into it!
Air Dry Clay vs Polymer Clay
Before you start sculpting, you’ll need to choose your clay.
- Air-dry clay is the low-maintenance option—no kiln, no oven, just patience while it hardens naturally over 24-48 hours. It’s perfect for chunkier, organic shapes and gives you that matte, earthy finish. The trade-off? It’s more fragile and can crack if you’re not careful with wall thickness.
- Polymer clay requires baking in your home oven (usually around 275°F for 15-30 minutes), but the payoff is durability and a smooth, professional finish. It comes in endless colors, holds fine details beautifully, and won’t break if you accidentally knock your photo holder off the shelf. If you’re planning to make multiples or gift them, polymer clay is your best bet.
Tools & Materials You’ll Need
Most clay photo holder projects require surprisingly minimal supplies.
Beyond your clay of choice, you’ll want a smooth work surface (a silicone mat or parchment paper works perfectly), a rolling pin or smooth bottle for flattening, and basic shaping tools—though a butter knife and toothpick will get you surprisingly far.
For embedding photos, brass wire or sturdy floral wire creates those essential holders, while acrylic paint and sealant let you customize the finished look.
The beauty of working with clay is that you probably already have half of what you need sitting in a drawer somewhere.
10 DIY Clay Photo Holders
1. Clay DIY Photo Holder
These minimalist clay photo holders feel like something you’d spot in a boutique stationery shop. With simple geometric shapes and a touch of metallic detail, they’re an easy way to display prints, quotes, or place cards while keeping your desk or shelf effortlessly styled.
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2. Marbled Clay Photo Holders
These marbled clay photo holders add an artful, almost terrazzo-inspired touch to your desk or bedside table. The swirls of color feel playful yet elevated, turning everyday snapshots into small design moments you’ll actually want on display.
3. DIY Clay Mushroom Photo Holder
This clay mushroom photo holder leans fully into whimsical charm, with playful colors and storybook detail. It’s the kind of crafty accent that adds personality to a kid’s desk, a creative workspace, or anyone who loves a little fairytale energy in their décor.
4. Clay Mountain Photo Holder
These hand-painted clay peaks turn your favorite snapshots into a tiny alpine moment. Playful yet polished, they add a sculptural touch to a desk or bedside table — no frame required.
5. Minimal Marble-Inspired Clay Stands
These round, marble-effect bases feel quietly elevated — the kind of understated detail that makes a shelf look styled, not staged. Perfect for Polaroids or mini prints, they bring a subtle, gallery-like finish to everyday memories.
6. DIY Clay Rainbow Photo Holder
These cheerful, half-arch rainbows add a playful pop of color while keeping your favorite snapshots front and center. They feel nostalgic in the best way — like something handmade, meaningful, and meant to stay on display.h
7. Retro Checkerboard & Floral Clay Stands
With their playful checkerboard pattern and tiny hand-painted florals, these holders bring a subtle vintage energy to your space. They feel a little artsy, a little nostalgic — the kind of detail that makes a photo display feel intentionally styled.
8. Color-Blocked Geometric Holders
These modern, color-blocked cubes feel straight out of a design studio — graphic, playful, and surprisingly versatile. They add just enough edge to balance sentimental snapshots with a cool, curated touch.
9. Whimsical Strawberry & Mushroom Holders
Equal parts cottagecore and statement decor, these sculpted strawberry and mushroom stands turn your photos into something storybook-worthy. They’re playful, yes — but styled against a clean backdrop, they feel charming rather than kitschy.
10. DIY Jellycat Marshmallow Photo Holder
These sweet, smiley holders add a lighthearted twist to your photo display — proof that decor can have personality. They’re especially perfect for candid snapshots and everyday moments that deserve a little joy on your shelf.
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