Transform a simple bolo tie into something charming with this easy clay rainbow technique.
This is a modern spin on a western accessory: a clay rainbow bolo tie that’s quick to make and endlessly customizable.
If you have collared shirts in your closet that could use a little personality, this tiny clay accent is an easy way to add it. It feels like a subtle cross between a pendant and a brooch—small, playful, and versatile.
The whole process takes only a few minutes and a handful of supplies. Best of all, the clay rainbow method shown here can be adapted to other projects—necklaces, earrings, wall hangings, kids’ crafts, and more.
Below is a concise, SEO-friendly tutorial to guide you through making your own clay rainbow bolo tie and ideas for variations.
How to Make a Bolo Tie (Clay Rainbow)
Materials Needed for Rainbow DIY Bolo Tie
- Polymer clay in the colors you prefer (or a single shade blended with white for an ombre effect)
- Bolo tie kit
- Knife or clay cutter
- Strong glue (super glue)
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet
Tip: If you want a softer, earthier palette, choose muted tones. If you prefer bold color, work with unmixed hues. A small amount of white mixed into a color creates a subtle ombre quickly.
Other Ways to Use the Clay Rainbow Technique
This coil-style clay rainbow works well beyond bolo ties. Try the same technique for lightweight earrings, pendant necklaces, decorative magnets, or small wall hangings. For a different finish, consider terracotta-style clay shapes made with a firing look or combine this coil approach with other clay jewelry techniques for layered, textured pieces.
Step-by-Step: Make a Rainbow DIY Bolo Tie
Step 1: Preheat the oven.
Preheat your oven to 225°F (about 107°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper so your clay pieces won’t stick during baking.
Step 2: Prepare the clay and form the rainbow.
Roll each chosen clay color into a short, round tube, using your fingers to smooth and shape them. Aim for about 1/4″ thickness so the arches hold their shape after baking.
Build the rainbow by laying the smallest (innermost) arch first, then add progressively larger arches around it. Press the adjoining edges gently so the rows stick together. When you’re satisfied with the arch shape, trim the bottom straight across with a knife or clay cutter to create a clean baseline.
Step 3: Bake the clay.
Place your rainbow pieces on the prepared baking sheet and bake according to the polymer clay manufacturer’s instructions—about 10–12 minutes for small pieces at 225°F. Oven temps vary, so watch the clay closely to prevent overheating. Remove and let pieces cool completely; they will firm up as they cool.
Step 4: Attach the rainbow to the bolo slide.
After the clay has cooled, apply a small dab of strong adhesive to the face of the bolo tie slide. Press the clay arch onto the slide and hold in place for about 30 seconds to ensure good contact. Allow the glue to cure fully before wearing.
Quick Recap
- Materials: polymer clay, bolo tie kit, cutter, glue, parchment, baking sheet.
- Form: roll clay into even tubes, layer into an arch, trim the base.
- Bake: low temperature for short time, then cool.
- Assemble: glue the cooled clay arch onto the bolo slide and let the adhesive set.
Photography and crafting by Brittni Mehlhoff and Casey Harper. Use this simple technique to create matching clay earrings, pendants, or a set of rainbow accents for gifts and decor.
I’ve shared several clay jewelry and craft techniques before—if you want more clay project inspiration, check posts about clay earrings and bead bracelets for alternate methods and design ideas you can combine with this rainbow coil approach.
Have you worn a bolo tie before? Would you try making a DIY version like this? It’s a fast, low-cost way to add personality to a plain collared shirt or to create handmade gifts for friends and family.