The camel is the face of the Emirates. It is on souvenirs, stamps and shelves. But a shop camel is plain and mass made. Here is how to make a clay camel figurine at home. It is easier than it looks.
Why a handmade camel is worth it
A camel figurine is a classic shelf piece. It suits a majlis, an office desk or a child's room. It also makes a lovely gift for friends abroad.
Shop versions are often resin. They feel cold. A clay camel has soft lines and a warm finish. No two look alike.
Figurines also teach the basics of sculpting. You learn to roll, pinch and join. Those skills carry over to every other clay project.
The answer: air dry clay and the Sawa kit
You do not need a wheel. You do not need a kiln. The Sawa pottery kit uses air dry clay that hardens at room temperature. Clay, tools, paints and a clear guide come in one box.
Start your camel. Solo Kit AED 198. Free UAE delivery.
How to make a clay camel figurine
1. Make the body
Roll a ball of clay. Stretch it into an oval about the size of a date. This is the body. Press it gently on the table so it sits flat.
2. Shape the legs
Roll four thin sausages. Make them the same length. Attach them to the body. Press and blend the joins with a wet finger. Use a little water, not too much.
3. Add the neck and head
Roll a thicker sausage. Bend it into a gentle curve. Attach it at the front. Pinch the end into a small head. Add a tiny snout with your thumb.
4. Add the hump
Roll a small ball. Press it on the back. Blend the edges so it looks smooth. For a two hump camel, add a second.
5. Finish the details
Use a tool tip to press eyes and nostrils. Add a small tail. Press a blanket pattern along the back with dots and lines.
6. Dry, paint and seal
Dry for 24 to 48 hours in a cool spot. Paint the body sand or terracotta. Paint the blanket in teal and red. Seal it with a clear coat.
Tips for a sturdy camel
Keep the legs thick. Thin legs snap. Make the neck a little shorter than your first instinct. Tall necks tilt as they dry.
Score the joins. Scratch both surfaces with a tool. Add a drop of water. Then press together. The joins last far longer.
If you want a plain base, make a small flat slab. Attach the camel to it. It stops tipping.
For more tips on joining pieces, see our guide on making a clay pumpkin. For a more advanced shape, try the clay lantern.
The experience
It is a calm, absorbing hour. Children love it. Adults get lost in it. Make a whole caravan if you like.
The Couple Kit at AED 228 works for two. The Group Kit at AED 288 works for up to four. A family can build a herd on one evening.
Common questions
Is it hard for beginners?
No. It is just rolling and pinching. Mistakes are easy to fix.
Will the legs crack?
Not if you keep them thick and dry the piece slowly. Avoid direct sun and the air conditioner vent.
Can kids do it?
Yes, with a little help. It is a great screen free activity.
Is it for decor only?
Yes. Your camel is shelf decor. Use pieces like it beside bukhoor holders, prayer beads and candles. They are not for food or drink.
Build your own camel
A handmade camel tells a story. Yours will be one of a kind. Order today. Delivery is free across the UAE.
Order your Sawa pottery kit. From AED 198. Free UAE delivery.