Air-dry clays were developed for artists who desire the integrity of clay but do not have easy access to a kiln. Most air-dry clays are mineral based and have properties comparable to those of traditional clays. They harden within a few days and do not need to be fired to create a permanent form.
The general time it takes for air-dry clay to dry is around 24 hours to 72 hours. However, if you have larger clay projects, you might have to wait a little longer for the piece to dry properly. It is best to leave the clay dry naturally, rather than to speed things up.
If stored properly, unused air dry clay should last indefinitely. We recommend wrapping the unused clay in plastic wrap or in a Ziploc bag, and then in another airtight container.
Use a polymer clay sealer: This is a quick and easy way to harden modeling clay. Just brush on a thin layer of sealer and allow it to dry. Your clay will be harder and more durable, but it will still be somewhat flexible. Dip in resin: This method is best for jewelry or other small pieces that must be water-resistant.
A con to building with air dry clay is how fragile it can be. Thin additions like legs, fingers, and ears will easily break off. To avoid small parts breaking off, have students create mixed media pieces.
Mix in some PVA glue
You can incorporate some PVA glue directly into the small chunk of clay and knead it. Or mix the glue with water and use this mixture instead of clear water while sculpting. This trick makes the clay very firm and durable.
Can you make air dry clay waterproof? No, but you can make it water-resistant using a glaze, waterproof sealant or varnish. This doesn't mean you can leave your clay to soak in a bowl of water but it does mean you can wipe it clean with a damp cloth.
Air dry clay can get moldy, either when it is part of an open pack or as part of a sculpture that is exposed to water when it hasn't been fully dried and sealed. Where mold is clearly visible, skin contact should be avoided and the mold either cut out or treated with a water/bleach mixture.
Air-dry clays were developed for artists who desire the integrity of clay but do not have easy access to a kiln. Most air-dry clays are mineral based and have properties comparable to those of traditional clays. They harden within a few days and do not need to be fired to create a permanent form.
You can make anything you want with air-dry clay but any bowls, plates or mugs made with air dry clay are for decorative purposes only and are not food-safe, as it is a type of clay designed to be left unsealed and is not watertight or food safe.
There are many options for pre-coloring air dry clay, so feel free to experiment! Acrylic, tempera, or poster paints will give you a solid bright color. Oil paints will also work for basic coloring, but they're harder to clean. If you want a deep, vivid color, try artists' quality acrylic or oil paint.
There are two approaches to painting air-dry clay. You can paint on the dry clay, or color it before it dries. The most important step to follow before painting air-dry clay is to wait until you are sure the clay is completely dry. The best clay for painting is your white clay, as it will show up the colors well.
Air Dry Clay is primarily a water based product. The longer it is out of the packaging and in the open air, the more moisture will evaporate from it. Most often times too much moisture evaporating from the clay is the reason for cracks.
Air dry clay is slow drying. Depending on environmental conditions, it can take 24-48 hours to dry. If part of your project is against your work surface the entire time, moisture is trapped underneath and it will take even longer to dry.
In a bowl, mix a ratio of 80% PVA glue to 20% water to create a creamy consistency, and then coat your fully dried clay piece, and allow the sealer mixture to dry. Once you have applied your PVA glue mixture or acrylic medium, you can then apply 3 coats of acrylic paint to seal your work.
Once you've made your air dry clay objects you're very likely to want to help protect them and keep them lasting longer. Adding some sort of sealant to the air dry clay is a particularly good idea if paint or any other colour has been added to the surface.
It's important to store your clay in a comfortable room temperature location. Your clay can freeze if it gets too cold or can melt if it gets too hot. So keeping your extra stash of clay in a dark cool environment, is ideal.
If you have some leftover clay that dries out, you can reuse it by sealing it in a zip lock bag with water. If you can break it into smaller pieces, that's even better. Seal up your bag and leave it for two days. Once this time has passed, you should be able to knead your clay until it becomes smooth again.
Clay is porous, the air dry clay will become pliable again if exposed to water or moisture. Sealing the clay will prevent this from occurring.
Meanwhile, air dry clay has the tendency to dissolve in heat or water. Applying a glaze to air dry clay is one way to combat its tendency to dissolve in heat or water.
Air cures to superior strength and durability. It will not crumble and has minimal shrinkage. It can be carved, sanded, and drilled when dry and accepts virtually any finish. This clay is great for kids, and can be used for classroom projects.
If you are in need of a versatile air dry clay that is non-toxic and suitable for all ages, the DAS Air-Hardening clay is crack-resistant, dries in 24 hours, and comes in white and terra cotta.
The key difference between polymer clay and air dry clay is that polymer clay needs to be baked (or fired), whereas air dry clay simply dries in the air.