Every living room has the same problem. Three remotes, one sofa, and none of them where you left them. If you are searching how to make a clay remote holder, you want something that solves that in an afternoon and looks better than a plastic tray from the supermarket.
This guide shows you how to build a simple, sturdy remote holder from air-dry clay. It is a slab project with straight walls, which makes it one of the best first builds for a beginner.
Why remote holders are a smart first clay project
Most beginners start with a pinch pot. It is fine, but it does not solve a problem. A remote holder does. It lives on the coffee table, gets used every day and reminds you that you made it.
It is also forgiving. The walls are straight. The base is flat. If one side comes out a little taller than the other, it looks handmade rather than wrong. And in a UAE apartment with air conditioning running, the clay dries evenly and quickly.
The answer: one kit, one afternoon
The Sawa Pottery Kit includes everything for this build. Premium air-dry clay, a rolling and cutting tool, smoothing tools, paints, brushes and a sealing finish. The Solo Kit at AED 198 is more than enough for a two-slot remote holder plus a small dish for keys. Free delivery UAE-wide.
No wheel. No kiln. No studio. Just your dining table and a couple of hours.
Get the Sawa Solo Kit
AED 198. Free delivery UAE-wide.
How to make a clay remote holder step by step
Step 1: Measure your remotes
Lay your remotes side by side. A typical TV remote is about 5 cm wide and 2 cm thick. For three remotes, plan a holder about 16 cm long, 6 cm deep and 8 cm tall. Write the numbers down.
Step 2: Roll a slab
Knead the clay until it is soft. Roll it out to about 6 mm thick. Keep the thickness even by rolling between two rulers or wooden strips.
Step 3: Cut the pieces
Cut one base, two long walls and two short walls using your measurements. Cut cleanly with the tool from your kit. A paper template helps if you want the pieces exact.
Step 4: Score and join
Scratch a crosshatch pattern along every edge that will meet another piece. Brush on a little water or slip. Press the walls onto the base one at a time. Hold each join for a few seconds. Then run a thin coil of clay along the inside corners and smooth it in with your finger.
Step 5: Add a divider
Cut one more short wall and fit it inside to split the holder into two slots. This keeps the remotes upright and stops them sliding around.
Step 6: Smooth and shape
Use a damp finger or a soft tool to smooth the outside seams. Round the top edge slightly. If you like texture, press a piece of fabric or a leaf into the outer walls now.
Step 7: Dry slowly
Cover the piece loosely with a cloth for the first 24 hours so the joins dry at the same pace as the walls. Then uncover and leave for another one to two days.
Step 8: Paint and seal
Paint the outside in a colour that matches your sofa or rug. Leave the inside plain or paint it a contrasting shade. Seal all surfaces with the finish in your kit so it stays clean.
If joins are new to you, read our guide on how to join air dry clay pieces. For similar builds, see how to make a clay pen holder and how to make a clay tissue box cover.
Frequently asked questions
Will the walls fall over while drying?
Not if you score, slip and reinforce the inside corners with a coil. You can also pack the inside with crumpled paper for the first day as a support.
How long does the whole project take?
About 90 minutes of hands-on time, then two to three days of drying, then 30 minutes to paint and seal.
Can I make it bigger for a games console controller?
Yes. Scale the measurements up and roll the slab slightly thicker, around 8 mm, for extra strength.
Can I use it as a tray for snacks?
No. Air-dry clay pieces are for decor and dry storage only. Keep it for remotes, keys, prayer beads and small items. Never food or drink.
Finish it this weekend
A remote holder is a small project that changes how your living room feels. Make one, then make a matching dish for the keys.
Order the Sawa Pottery Kit
From AED 198. Free delivery UAE-wide.