Paint a clay Dhanvantari or Lakshmi figure
Paint a dry clay figure with thin colour layers and a stable display base for your Dhanteras puja corner.
- Easy
- 40 min active
- Use what you have
- 6 steps
Painting a small clay figure can be a quiet shared craft if your family is comfortable with it. Choose a ready-made dry figure with a broad base, work with thin paint layers and let children choose a simple border or garment colour. Fine details and placement can remain with an adult.
Keep ready
- Dry unpainted clay figure with a stable base
- Age-appropriate water-based craft paint
- Fine and broad brushes
- Soft dry cloth
- Work mat and water cup
- Small display tray
How to do it
- 1Inspect the figure for cracks, sharp parts or a loose base. Dust it gently with a soft cloth rather than soaking the clay.
- 2Set out two or three colours on a protected work surface. Decide which large areas children can paint comfortably.
- 3Apply a thin base coat with a broad brush, keeping the bottom clean so it rests flat.
- 4Let the first coat dry as the paint label directs. Use a smaller brush for a simple edge or garment detail rather than covering wet paint.
- 5Allow the full finish to dry and cure before handling. Keep the figure out of reach of small children while the surface is wet.
- 6Place it securely on a tray or chowki according to family preference, away from oil lamps, water spills and food.
Helpful tips 💡
- Do not paint a valuable, antique or existing consecrated figure without the owner’s agreement.
- Use a paper drawing instead if your household prefers not to decorate figures.
- Painted clay should not be used as a food container.
Plan ahead
Complete painting before the day’s puja setup and allow the full labelled drying time. Choose a paper activity if there is not enough time for the finish to cure.
Common questions
Can children do the whole painting activity?
Give children age-appropriate paint and broad areas to colour under supervision. Adults handle fragile pieces, detailed work and the final display.
How should I fit this project into my Dhanteras plan?
Complete painting before the day’s puja setup and allow the full labelled drying time. Choose a paper activity if there is not enough time for the finish to cure.