Step 2: Cut out the template pieces and roll out the clay
Print off our clay house template (link in material list above) and cut out the pieces. Place the templates on a cutting board and use a craft knife to cut out the small windows and heart shape.
Place the ball of clay between two pieces of plastic wrap. This will stop the clay from sticking to your rolling pin and work surface.
Roll out the clay to about 1/4 inch thick.
Step 3: Cut out the pieces for the clay house
Remove the clay from the plastic wrap and place it on your cutting board. Place a template piece on top of the clay and gently rub the paper to help it stick in place on the clay.Cut around the template with the craft knife.
When cutting out the windows, try to cut into the corners well to make them easier to remove. Gently pry the windows out with the tip of the craft knife.Make sure you cut out two sides of the house (the shorter piece with the windows).
Step 4: Allow the clay to dry & then sand the pieces
Transfer the pieces of your clay house to a baking sheet and allow them to dry for about 48 hours. Drying time will vary, based on room temperature and humidity. (Your clay might be dry in a day, or it might take 3 days.)Flip the pieces several times a day to help them dry and to prevent the clay from warping. (You will be able to see the top of the pieces drying and turning white - try to flip them when this happens.)
Once the clay has dried completely, use a nail file (or sand paper) to sand the edges of each piece, removing any imperfections. Use a nail file to sand inside of the windows.
Step 5: Glue the clay house together
Assemble the house using tacky glue.Add a line of glue to the right of the front piece (the piece with the heart cut-out).
Attach one side of the house to the front.
Once the two pieces are attached, stand them up and hold them in place until the glue is dry enough to keep the pieces together by itself.
Next, add a line of glue to the inside left of the second side piece.
Attach the second side to the front of the house. Again, hold the pieces in place until it stays together.
Add glue to both sides of the back of the house.
Connect the back of the house to the other pieces, attaching the glued parts to the inside of the side walls.
Add glue along the pointed peaks at the front and back of the clay house.
Place both roof pieces on top of the house making sure they line up correctly. Hold the pieces in place until they stay together.Wipe away any glue drips. Allow the glue to fully dry before moving your house.