Air dry clay (a self-drying clay-like material) is a popular and relatively inexpensive option for creating art projects, both small and large. It can also be a great choice for novice artists and crafters to practice their skills with, and even experienced artists often enjoy the simplicity of air dry clay. Air dry clay can be used to make jewelry, ornaments, and a variety of craft projects. The best part is that air dry clay doesn't need to be baked in an oven or kiln (a type of large oven) to make a beautiful and unique product. Usually, within 24 hours the dry clay will feel dry to the touch. The thicker the clay, the longer it will take to dry completely. It can take up to 72 hours.
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Part 1 of 3: Choosing and Buying Air Dry Clay
Step 1. Determine the type of project that will use air dry clay
There are several types of air dry clay that are ideally suited for different needs. To determine the right type of clay, you must know what the water dry clay will be used for. Here are some questions to ask yourself:
- How big will the finished product be?
- How light should the finished product be?
- How much budget to buy clay?
- Does the finished product have to have a luxurious feel? (Usually for jewelry, trinkets, or beads.)
Step 2. Choose paper-based water dry clay for larger projects
Usually, larger projects are better off using paper clay. Since large projects will require a lot of materials, you can save money with paper clay. The end result will also be much lighter.
- Paper-based water dry clay feels soft when working, but hard and light when it dries.
- Paper-based dry clay will swell and the lumps will break apart in a sweet-smelling way.
Step 3. Choose a resin-based water dry clay for smaller projects, such as jewelry
At the same level of strength, water-based resin dry clay (sometimes called porcelain-based clay) is much denser, and when dry looks more like burnt polymer clay. Resin clay is also much more expensive and heavier.
- Smaller projects, such as jewelry or beads, are more luxurious if they are made from resin-based clay or porcelain.
- Resin-based clays are denser and will break apart like fudge, caramel or toffee.
Step 4. Buy clay
Once you've determined the type of clay you need, buy it! Make sure there's enough for your project, but don't overdo it. Clay that has been opened will be difficult to store. Clay can harden easily and eventually become unusable.. Purchase clay at your local arts and crafts store or online marketplaces.
- If you're still not sure what type of clay to use or want suggestions for your project, some shops usually have people who can answer questions, even offer courses.
- Online market places generally offer better prices and choices, but you'll have to wait a few days for the goods to arrive.
Part 2 of 3: Forming Air Dry Clay
Step 1. Open the clay
Start working on a smooth, clean, non-porous surface. Open the clay package and pinch as much as you want to use. If your project is larger and requires several clay bags, just open one now.
You can use wire or dental floss to cut a lump of clay from the block. This method is useful for accurately measuring how much clay is used
Step 2. Knead the clay until soft
Kneading and massaging will soften and make the clay easier to work with. The warmth of the hands will spread to the clay and make it malleable. Conditioning is important so that the clay can be used properly. If you plan to use several bags, knead one at a time.
- If you need several bags of clay to make one item, knead them all together after previously kneading and warming each bag separately.
- If you're using paper-based clay, add a little water to soften it even more.
- Resin-based clays can be softened (and colored) with acrylic paints.
Step 3. Form the clay
Three-dimensional and flat projects can be easily made using air dry clay. Use your hands and tools such as knives, spoons, and even a turntable to shape and sculpt the clay as desired.
- Craft tools (even toothpicks and household utensils) can be very useful for making more complex projects because you can be more precise with them.
- If you're making a larger project that needs to stand out, such as a vase, make sure the base is wide and even.
Step 4. Decorate the clay
You can press beads, knick-knacks, and even other pieces of clay onto the project. Be careful that the decoration must be pressed firmly against the clay without changing or damaging it.
Step 5. Save the remaining clay
Since clay breaks down quickly once you open it, you should ideally use it all right away. If it doesn't run out, the rest of the clay can be wrapped tightly with wax paper and put in a plastic bag. However, clay conditions can not be used as easily and as versatile as before.
Hard clay residue can sometimes be salvaged by (carefully) using the microwave to warm it up
Part 3 of 3: Drying Air Dry Clay
Step 1. Dry the clay
Find a clean, smooth, and non-porous surface to dry the clay for 24 hours. Place the clay and do not tamper with or move it while it is drying. You have to be patient so this project doesn't get damaged.
- A cool, dry place (with low humidity) is best. Light air circulation is also useful.
- Thicker projects (more than 1 cm) may take longer to dry. Better to be safe than sorry.
Step 2. Check if the clay is dry
After 24 hours, the clay should be dry to the touch, but that doesn't mean it's completely solid. If your clay project is thick, give it extra time. There is another way to visually check if the clay is completely dry.
- Resin based clay will appear darker and more transparent.
- Paper-based clay will remain very opaque.
Step 3. Remove clay from drying area
Once dry, carefully remove the clay from the drying area and return it to the work area. Instead, lay out newspapers or used paper. Be aware that the dried clay can be quite brittle. Do not fall because the clay is at risk of breaking.
Step 4. Decorate the clay
If you want, you can decorate this project even further. Tempera paints, acrylics, and watercolors can be used in dry clay projects. You can also use glue to attach beads, sequins, fabric, and other interesting decorations to a clay project.
Tips
- Clay will shrink slightly over time. So, be careful when making clay molds.
- Clay that is kneaded well will feel soft and sticky. This is why you should work on a non-porous surface.
- Mix several colors of clay by kneading everything together with your fingers. This method is suitable for lighter colors.
- Remove the clay from the worktop as often as possible, otherwise the clay may stick.
- Rinse and dry the clay with tissue paper.
- Knead the clay a few times before making anything with it.
Warning
- Dry clay is hard, but brittle and can crack easily.
- Clay is sticky and can stick to furniture, porous surfaces, clothing, and carpets.
