How to Harden Modeling Clay
Identify the kind of clay with which you're working., Apply any pigments or glazes appropriate for painting on prior to hardening the clay., Bake polymer clay and oven-hardening clay in a regular kitchen oven., Use patience when waiting for...
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Identify the kind of clay with which you're working.
Common kinds of clay include polymer clay (often called oven-hardening clay), self-hardening clay and fine art clay.
Since the type of clay has an equally powerful effect on how you build your model, this is something you're better off knowing before you begin your projects.
Polymer clay does not technically contain clay.
Instead, it has polymers similar to PVC, with liquids added to make it moldable.
It hardens usually in an oven over low heat.
Self-hardening clay is exactly what it sounds like.
You mold it, set it aside, and let it harden over the course of several days.
Unlike modeling clays, which are oil- or wax-based, and polymer clays, which are resinous, self-hardening clays are water-based.
Fine art clays are usually exactly like self-hardening clays, except that they use high-quality clay and add only water. -
Step 2: Apply any pigments or glazes appropriate for painting on prior to hardening the clay.
Some pigments are applied after the clay hardens or in the middle of the hardening process.
It's important to understand these aspects of any coloration prior to starting your project. , Set a piece of wax paper on top of a baking sheet, cutting it so that it matches the inside dimensions of the sheet.
Most polymer or oven-based clays will harden after they are cooked at 265 °F (129 °C) to 275 °F (135 °C) for 15 minutes per 1⁄4 inch (6.4 mm) of thickness.
Remove the baking sheet from the oven, and place it on a heat-resistant surface.
Allow the clay items to cool at room temperature before removing. , Keep it out of the way and trust time to do its work.
Set the finished model on wax paper on a baking sheet or similar flat and stable surface.
Place the sheet someplace dry, at room temperature and out of direct sunlight.
For best results, set it out of the way of other activities.
The top of a refrigerator is a good example.Wait 7 to 10 days for the clay to dry completely. , You can find these facilities at local art stores, community colleges and community centers.
If you're not already intimately familiar with how to kiln-harden clay, let the people who run the kiln fire your model. -
Step 3: Bake polymer clay and oven-hardening clay in a regular kitchen oven.
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Step 4: Use patience when waiting for self-hardening clay to harden.
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Step 5: Schedule time in a professional kiln to harden fine art clay.
Detailed Guide
Common kinds of clay include polymer clay (often called oven-hardening clay), self-hardening clay and fine art clay.
Since the type of clay has an equally powerful effect on how you build your model, this is something you're better off knowing before you begin your projects.
Polymer clay does not technically contain clay.
Instead, it has polymers similar to PVC, with liquids added to make it moldable.
It hardens usually in an oven over low heat.
Self-hardening clay is exactly what it sounds like.
You mold it, set it aside, and let it harden over the course of several days.
Unlike modeling clays, which are oil- or wax-based, and polymer clays, which are resinous, self-hardening clays are water-based.
Fine art clays are usually exactly like self-hardening clays, except that they use high-quality clay and add only water.
Some pigments are applied after the clay hardens or in the middle of the hardening process.
It's important to understand these aspects of any coloration prior to starting your project. , Set a piece of wax paper on top of a baking sheet, cutting it so that it matches the inside dimensions of the sheet.
Most polymer or oven-based clays will harden after they are cooked at 265 °F (129 °C) to 275 °F (135 °C) for 15 minutes per 1⁄4 inch (6.4 mm) of thickness.
Remove the baking sheet from the oven, and place it on a heat-resistant surface.
Allow the clay items to cool at room temperature before removing. , Keep it out of the way and trust time to do its work.
Set the finished model on wax paper on a baking sheet or similar flat and stable surface.
Place the sheet someplace dry, at room temperature and out of direct sunlight.
For best results, set it out of the way of other activities.
The top of a refrigerator is a good example.Wait 7 to 10 days for the clay to dry completely. , You can find these facilities at local art stores, community colleges and community centers.
If you're not already intimately familiar with how to kiln-harden clay, let the people who run the kiln fire your model.
About the Author
Diane Ford
Experienced content creator specializing in pet care guides and tutorials.
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