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What is air dry clay?

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Have you ever heard of air dry clay? If you’re a fan of DIY crafts, then you’ll definitely want to know more about this fascinating material.

Air dry clay is a type of clay that does not require baking or firing in a kiln to harden. Instead, it dries and hardens over time through exposure to air. It is commonly used for pottery, sculpture, and other crafts. Air dry clay can be made from a variety of materials, including paper, wood pulp, and natural clay.

It’s an excellent option for creating art projects that require a moldable material, but without the mess of traditional sculpting clay.

In this post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about air dry clay, including its properties, common uses, and handy tips for working with it. So, let’s dive into the world of air dry clay and discover its endless possibilities!

Understanding Air Dry Clay

Air dry clay is a type of clay that dries or cures with air. It is easy to shape and manipulate because of its soft and spongy texture.

Unlike other types of clay, air dry clay doesn’t require heat or a kiln for hardening. It typically takes around one to two days to fully set but the drying time may vary depending on the thickness of the piece.

Once it’s dried, air dry clay maintains a porous and spongy texture, and it can be colored with acrylic paint or sealed with a glaze to become more water-resistant. Air dry clay is an affordable and safe option for crafting and is suitable for all ages, including children aged three years and above. 

Brief history of air dry clay

Air dry clay has a long history dating back to ancient civilizations, such as Egypt and Mesopotamia, where people used clay to create objects for daily life and religious ceremonies.

In the early 20th century, commercial paper clays emerged as a popular alternative to traditional kiln-fired clay.

These clay formulations were used by artists and craftsmen to create sculptures, figurines, and other objects.

Today, air dry clay has become a staple in the crafting community, with various types of clay available to suit different needs and preferences. From paper-based clay to ceramic-based clay and even polymer-based clay, air dry clay offers endless possibilities for creativity without the need for a kiln.

Importance of air dry clay in crafting

Air dry clay is an incredibly important material in crafting. It offers a wide range of possibilities for creating personalized, one-of-a-kind projects.

Unlike traditional or polymer clay, air dry clay requires no additional heating or kiln firing, which makes it an affordable and accessible option for people of all ages.

Additionally, air dry clay’s versatility means that it can be used in various crafting techniques, including coiling, slabbing, pinching, scoring and welding.

Furthermore, air dry clay comes in a variety of types, each with their own unique properties, drying times, shrinkage rates, texture, hardness, color options, strength, and durability. It’s no wonder that air dry clay has become such an essential material for crafters worldwide! 

Types of Clay

Paper-based clay

Paper-based clay is a versatile and innovative material that is trending among crafting enthusiasts. It is made by adding processed paper or cellulose fiber to a clay body, such as terra cotta or earthenware.

This unique blend of materials produces a lightweight and durable clay that is easy to mold and shape into any form.

Paper-based clay has become a favorite among artists and sculptors as it is incredibly forgiving and allows for detailed and intricate work. It dries quickly and can be decorated with any type of paint or finish once it has set.

The best thing about paper-based clay is that it is affordable, safe for all ages, and adds an exciting element to any crafting project. 

Ceramic-based clay

Ceramic-based clay is a type of clay that requires a kiln to cure. It is commonly used in pottery, figurine making, and other forms of sculpture.

However, for artists who don’t have access to a kiln or want to bypass the additional equipment, air dry clay is a great option.

While the two clays may differ in texture, hardness, and strength, air dry clay offers a non-toxic, flexible, and safe alternative to traditional ceramic-based clay.

Artists can also add other materials to their air dry clay sculptures, such as wire and fabric, creating unique and personalized pieces. And with a drying time of around 24 hours, it’s a convenient medium for quick crafting projects. 

Polymer-based clay

Polymer-based clay is a crafting material that is loved by many for its versatility and ease of use. This type of clay is perfect for creating all sorts of projects, from figurines and jewelry to home decor and beyond.

One of the biggest advantages of polymer-based clay is that it sets by heat, which means you can leave it out for days without worrying about it drying out.

It is also available in a wide variety of colors, making it easy to create pieces that match your unique style.

And with its durability, you can be sure that your creations will last for years to come. So whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just starting out, polymer-based clay is definitely worth trying out! 

Comparison of different types of air dry clay

When it comes to different types of air dry clay, there are three main categories: paper-based, ceramic-based, and polymer-based.

Paper-based clay is made from paper pulp and provides a lightweight and porous texture.

Ceramic-based clay is made from a combination of clay and other natural materials and provides a harder texture.

Polymer-based clay is made from PVC and provides a more rubbery texture.

Each type of clay has different characteristics such as drying time, shrinkage rate, texture and hardness, color options, and strength and durability.

While paper-based clay may be easier for beginners, ceramic-based clay may provide a more professional finish.

Polymer-based clay, on the other hand, is a great option for those who want to create detailed and intricate designs. Ultimately, the choice depends on personal preference and the specific project at hand. 

Properties of Air Dry Clay

Drying time

When it comes to air dry clay, drying time is a crucial factor that needs to be considered. Generally, air dry clay projects take about 24-72 hours to dry completely, depending on the thickness of the clay and the size of the project.

To speed up the drying process, several techniques can be used, such as using a dehydrator or desiccant chamber, preheating your oven to 200 degrees Fahrenheit and baking the clay for about 15 minutes, or using a hairdryer on low heat.

It’s important to avoid rushing the drying process, as this can result in cracking or warping of the clay. With a little patience, you can create beautiful and durable pieces with air dry clay. 

Shrinkage rate

One important aspect to consider when working with any type of clay is the shrinkage rate. Regular clay can have a shrinkage level of 10%-20%, while air dry clay usually shrinks about 8%-12%.

It’s important to account for this shrinkage in the design of your project to ensure it ends up the desired size.

The larger the piece, the more movement of shrinkage will take place, so it’s important to let the clay dry evenly, especially for the larger pieces.

Drying slowly and evenly can help prevent cracking caused by uneven rates of drying that create stress in the clay. Always measure your clay object before it dries out to ensure you have an accurate understanding of the final dimensions. 

Texture and hardness

When it comes to air dry clay, texture and hardness are important factors to consider. Once the clay has fully set, its texture is porous and spongy, which allows it to be easily manipulated and shaped into various projects.

However, it’s important to note that there may be some shrinkage after drying, with some types of air dry clay having a shrinkage rate of up to 20-30%.

To combat this, a layer of glaze can be applied to make the clay more resistant to water. As for hardness, air dry clay is not as durable as polymer clay and has the tendency to dissolve in heat or water.

Nonetheless, it’s still an ideal choice for beginners’ crafts and children’s toys due to its lightweight and easy-to-use nature. 

Color options

One of the great things about air dry clay is the wide variety of colors that are available. The 36 colors air dry clays are made of natural resin pure water and pigment which are harmless and environmentally friendly.

You can mix a variety of colored clay to create even more shades, making it a versatile and unique medium to work with.

This is ideal for those who want to add a pop of color to their crafting projects. Whether you prefer traditional colors like terracotta and stone or more vibrant hues, there’s an air dry clay color perfect for your project.

Plus, the colors don’t fade or diminish over time, so your artwork will stay looking as good as new for years to come. 

Strength and durability

When it comes to strength and durability, air dry clay is a great option for smaller to medium-sized projects.

While it may not be as durable as regular fired clay or polymer clay, it is still fairly strong on its own and can withstand a moderate amount of pressure.

Plus, using varnish or epoxy resin after it has dried can make it even stronger. However, it’s important to keep in mind that air dry clay is not strong enough to support a lot of weight on its own, so larger sculptures or thicker clay walls may be more prone to breaking. With proper care and attention, your air dry clay project can last a long time. 

Advantages of Air Dry Clay

No need for a kiln

One of the great advantages of using air dry clay is that you don’t need a kiln to cure it. This means you can skip the time-consuming and costly firing process altogether.

Unlike traditional ceramics that require a lot of energy to heat up to kiln temperatures, air dry clay can be left to dry in the open air.

This saves energy and money in the long run, making air dry clay a more affordable option for many. Additionally, this means you can work on your project from start to finish without having to leave it to dry in a kiln, making the whole process more time-efficient.

Overall, the lack of need for a kiln makes air dry clay a convenient and accessible material for artists of all levels. [25][26]

Easy to use

One of the greatest advantages of air dry clay is how easy it is to use. Unlike other forms of clay that require a kiln or other specialized equipment, air dry clay lets you get creative without any extra hassle. You can start creating right away, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist.

The clay can be easily manipulated and molded into a variety of shapes and textures, giving you plenty of room to experiment with different techniques. Plus, if you make a mistake, you can simply fix it or start over without any worries about wasted materials or resources.

Overall, air dry clay is a wonderful medium for anyone who loves crafting or creating art and wants to enjoy the process with the utmost ease and simplicity. 

Safe for all ages

One of the great advantages of air dry clay is that it is safe for all ages. Unlike traditional clay which requires a kiln, air dry clay hardens simply by being left out to dry naturally, removing the need for any heat or dangerous equipment.

This makes it perfect for crafting with children or individuals with limited access to ovens or kilns. Additionally, air dry clay is non-toxic, adding to its safety and making it a perfect material for kid-friendly craft projects like creating keepsake prints or making holiday ornaments.

Not only is it safe, but air dry clay is also easy to work with and affordable, making it an excellent choice for a wide range of crafting endeavors. 

Affordable

One of the biggest perks of using air dry clay is its affordability. Unlike traditional clay that requires a kiln, air dry clay hardens on its own and doesn’t require any special equipment.

Brands like Crayola Air Dry Clay are great options for beginners as they are very affordable and easy to find. For those who prefer artist-quality clay, there are many options available that offer beautiful results at reasonable prices.

Some artists even opt for making their own cold porcelain clay at home using simple ingredients like cornstarch and white glue. Overall, using air dry clay is a budget-friendly way to express your creativity without breaking the bank. [31][32]

Final Thoughts

Air dry clay is a versatile crafting material that doesn’t require heat to harden. It can be used for a range of projects, from sculptures and decorative items to plaques and even embellishments for cards and other crafts.

The different types of air dry clay include paper-based, ceramic-based, and polymer-based clay, each with varying drying times, shrinkage rates, textures, colors, and strengths.

Air dry clay is easy to use, safe for all ages, and affordable. It can be purchased at craft and hobby stores or online. Its advantages over traditional clay include the lack of a need for a kiln, easy availability, and quick drying time. With air dry clay, crafting has never been more accessible and hassle-free. 


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Hey! We're the Air Dry Crafters, we enjoy creating with clay but don't want the restrictions of a kiln. We set up this site to answer the questions we had when we started to use air drying clay in project and we plan on publishing some suggested projects as well to give you inspiration.

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