Five Ways to Have Fun Learning on Modeling Clay

Modeling of clay comprises of any substances that is malleable, which can be used in sculpting and building. The compositions of the material and its process of production differs considerably. Most modeling clay using the following:

Ceramic clay: This is a substance that is water based and made from other raw materials and clay minerals. They are baked at a temperature that is higher and the process of the baking is known as firing, which is used to create the ceramics like earthenware, porcelain, terra cotta and stoneware.

Oil-based clays: This is made from a combination of clay minerals, waxes and oils. Just like water, the oil don’t evaporate. The oil based clays remain bendy even when they are kept in an environment that is dry for a longer time.

 

Paper Clay: This is mostly handmade and a clay that is available commercially. Cellulose fiber is added to it to increase the tensile strength.

Polymer clay: This is a modeling clay material that cures when it is heated.

 

5 modeling clay tips to have fun using Polymer clay

Proper Baking: The polymer clay should be baked properly, this is to make the work be attractive, durable and strong. When carrying out your modeling clay using polymer, if the baking is under baked, it will lead to breakage and this may cause changes in color.

Paints to Avoid: The use of nail polish in coloring must be discouraged because the chemicals can make the polymer clay dissolve and make it to become sticky in the process of time. Don’t use any art colors or sealers on polymer clay. If water and soap is used in the cleaning of the brushes, the paint will be safer on the polymer clay. Acrylic paints works well for painting polymer clay surface.

 

 

Storing Polymer Clay

The storage process of polymer clay is very important and should be kept away from any source of heat. This could make it hardened or cured. It is also important to keep pet hair and dust away from making a deposit on the polymer clay. One way of safeguarding your work, is keeping it on sandwich bags or partitioned plastic boxes.

Hard crumbly clay

At times, the polymer clay as it gets old becomes crumbly. In this situation it may be harder to work with, with a little work can be softened. All you need to do is warm the clay slightly. Putting the polymer and mixing in a liquid clay or mineral oil solution can also do the magic of softening it.

Sealing Polymer Clay

After baking, polymer clay is a water-resistant and durable. It doesn’t need any sealing for protection. It can also withstand weather, water and wear better compared to any sealer. At times, the polymer clay don’t require sealing. Acrylic paint or art colors can be used in decorating the polymer clay.

Author’s Bio

Lil Yun in this piece looks at what modelling clay is all about with the different constituent and how acrylic paint or art colors can be used in decorating the polymer clay. He also look at some of the tips when it comes to polymer clay.