While clay is wet
Water can be added to Air-Dry Clay to soften or join pieces. When working with Air-Dry Clay, remember that pieces greater than ¼” thick are more durable and less fragile than thinner pieces.
You can use most traditional clay sculpting techniques with Air-Dry Clay, such as coil, slab, pinch, score-and-weld. The wet clay takes impressions well from rubber stamps or textured materials. You can also press beads, small stones or other decorative items directly into the clay. When joining two pieces together, score or roughen both surfaces, then apply slip (clay and water mixed to the consistency of heavy cream) before pressing firmly together.
Air-Dry Clay can be thrown on a potter’s wheel by intermediate and advanced students. However, it should never be fired in a kiln or painted with traditional glazes.
Dry time on the clay varies depending on the size of the piece and the humidity of the environment. Most pieces will be safe to handle carefully within a day but should be allowed to dry at least 24-48 hours before painting or sealing. Actual time to completely dry may take several weeks, and the clay becomes stronger with time.
When clay is dry
Large or thick dry pieces of Air-Dry Clay may be carved or inscribed with clay tools (use adult supervision). Thoroughly dry pieces may be painted with tempera, acrylic or watercolor. Markers may not provide optimal coverage
on large areas of clay since the clay tends to clog the nib. However, pigment-based permanent markers work well for writing words on the clay.
Handling and care information
Store unused clay in an airtight container. Do not store clay to which water has been added. Keep finished product away from open flame. Do not mold into candleholders or other like items for use around a flame. Do not put in oven, microwave or kiln. Do not allow finished pieces to come into contact with food or liquids.
Clean-Up
Air-Dry Clay will clean up off skin, tools, and surfaces easily with soap and water. For best results, cleanup should be prompt. As the clay gets dryer, it will become harder and may require soaking or scrubbing to clean.
