TIPS & TRICKS
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- If the clay you work with crumbles easily, add a bit of water to it. If, accidentally, you made your clay too moist, allow it to dry before starting your project. Check periodically if the clay has become workable (do avoid over-drying). Alternatively dipping your fingers in water also helps to keep clay moist.
- After you have finished your project let it dry. Do not forget to turn it from time to time. It is better not to put your project close to the heating – it will not speed up the drying process, but might result in your artwork developing cracks. Some types of air-dry clay can be cured in a microwave oven (read the instructions on the package before putting your project in a microwave oven).
- Using a ready-made material, you can always apply more fresh clay onto a dry project, which is handy for filling any imperfections, cracks or cavities.
- Using a piece of fine sandpaper you can smooth out the surface of your project.
- Air-dry clay is fragile, so treat it with care after it has hardened.
- Most often air-dry clay comes in basic colours. You can get the colour you want by adding acrylic paint to clay. Knead well for a good result.
- Wait until your artwork becomes completely dry before painting or varnishing it.
- Acrylic paint is the best suitable for painting on air-dry clay.
- If you are working with children, do experiment with adding some fun factors – glitter powder, mini pearls, wiggly eyes, etc. They are better applied to a raw artwork (gluing after your project is dry is somewhat more difficult).
- Use molds, push models, structure sheets for that extra special effect (it is also fun when working with children).
- Check if clay you use is dimensionally stable. If clay shrinks when it dries, you might want to make your project slightly bigger to achieve an optimal end result.
- Projects made of air-dry clay cannot be used to store food in.
- Coat your final artwork / product with a permanent sealer to make it water-resistant (this is relevant if you are making vases, do not drink/eat out items made of air-dry clay).
If you are a beginner, do not get disappointed if your project is not working out immediately. Start with something small first! And ENJOY, because whatever is that you are creating is unique because it is made by your hands and carries your creative energy.