Air dry clay is a versatile and popular crafting material that doesn’t require special equipment or high temperatures to harden. With its ease of use, air dry clay has become increasingly popular among hobbyists and professional artists alike. However, once opened, the package of air dry clay needs to be stored properly to prevent it from drying out and becoming unusable.
The main advantage of storing air dry clay is the convenience it provides. Airtight containers are ideal for keeping your clay fresh and pliable, allowing you to work with it whenever you want without worrying about it drying out. In this blog post, You will learn in detail how to store air dry clay.
Step-by-step Instructions for How to Store Air Dry Clay
Step 1: Inspect the Clay
Inspecting your air dry clay is important before you start using it to store. You should always make sure that there are no cracks, dents or other damages on the surface of the clay.
Step 2: Prepare a Clean Work Area
Before starting to work with air dry clay, it’s important to prepare a clean and clutter-free work area. This will help you keep your clay free from any debris or dirt particles that can ruin the quality of your stored clay. To make it easier to store and work with, divide your air dry clay into smaller portions. This will also help you save space in storage and prevent any unused portions from drying out.
Step 3: Cover the Clay with Plastic Wrap
To prevent your air dry clay from drying out, cover each portion with plastic wrap. Make sure to press the plastic wrap firmly onto the clay surface to seal it. After covering the portions with plastic wrap, place them in an airtight container. This will further ensure that no air can get to the clay and cause it to dry out.
Step 4: Label the Container
To keep track of your stored clay, label the container with the date and type of clay. This will help you know how long it has been stored and which clay is inside each container. Air dry clay should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent any moisture from getting to it. Avoid storing it near windows or other areas with direct sunlight, as this can cause the clay to dry out.
Step 5: Check on the Clay Regularly
It’s important to check on your stored air dry clay regularly, especially if you plan on using it for projects. This will help you ensure that the clay is still in good condition and has not dried out. If your air dry clay does happen to dry out, don’t panic. You can easily rehydrate it by spraying a small amount of water onto the surface and then kneading it until it becomes pliable again.
Step 6: Use Your Stored Clay
When you’re ready to use your stored air dry clay, simply remove it from the container and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before working with it. This will help soften the clay and make it easier to mold and shape.
By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your air dry clay stays in good condition and is ready for use whenever you need it. Remember to always store your clay properly to avoid any unnecessary waste or frustration.
Safety Precautions for How to Store Air Dry Clay
- Ensure that the Air Dry Clay is kept in an airtight container when not in use, as exposure to air can cause it to dry out.
- Keep the clay away from heat sources such as radiators, ovens or direct sunlight. This can speed up the drying process and cause cracks to form in the clay.
- When working with Air Dry Clay, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly before and after use. This will prevent any dirt or oils from getting into the clay and affecting its quality.
- It is important to store the clay in a cool and dry place, as moisture can cause molds to form on the surface of the clay.
- If you are storing different colors of Air Dry Clay, be sure to keep them separate from each other to avoid color transfer and mixing.
- Label the container with the date you opened the clay, as it has a shelf life of about 6-12 months depending on the brand. This will help you keep track of when to use it before it becomes too dry or brittle.
- If the clay does become slightly dry or harden, add a few drops of water and knead the clay until it becomes soft and pliable again.
By following these safety precautions, you can ensure that your Air Dry Clay stays in good condition for future use.
How Can You Prevent Your Air Dry Clay From Drying Out?
Air dry clay is a popular choice for many artists and crafters due to its ease of use and versatility. However, one common frustration with air dry clay is that it can easily dry out if not stored properly. This can happen during the sculpting process or even while the clay is still in its packaging. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to prevent your air dry clay from drying out:
1. Keep it Sealed in an Airtight Container
One of the easiest ways to prevent your air dry clay from drying out is to keep it sealed in an airtight container when not in use. This can be a plastic bag, Tupperware container, or even a resealable ziplock bag. This will help to prevent any air from getting inside and drying out the clay.
2. Add a Damp Cloth or Paper Towel
If your air dry clay has already started to dry out, you can try adding a damp cloth or paper towel to the container with the clay. This will help to add moisture back into the clay and keep it pliable.
3. Store in a Cool, Dark Place
Exposure to heat and light can also cause air dry clay to dry out faster. It’s best to store your clay in a cool, dark place such as a closet or cabinet. This will help to regulate the temperature and prevent the clay from drying out.
4. Use a Clay Softener
If your air dry clay has become completely dried out, you can use a clay softener to revive it. This product is specifically designed to add moisture back into dried out clay and make it pliable again. Simply follow the instructions on the package for best results.
5. Keep Unused Clay in its Original Packaging
If you have some air dry clay that you haven’t opened yet, it’s best to keep it in its original packaging until you’re ready to use it. The packaging is designed to keep the clay fresh and prevent it from drying out.
6. Mist with Water
Another trick for preventing air dry clay from drying out is to mist it with water while sculpting. This will help to add moisture back into the clay and make it easier to work with. Just be careful not to add too much water, as it can make the clay too wet and difficult to work with.
Overall, the key to preventing your air dry clay from drying out is proper storage and adding moisture back into the clay when needed. By following these tips, you can ensure that your clay stays fresh and ready for your next project.
Are There Any Special Considerations When Storing Colored or Painted Air Dry Clay?
Yes, there are a few special considerations to keep in mind when storing colored or painted air dry clay. Here are some tips to help ensure your clay stays in good condition:
- Store in an Airtight Container: Air dry clay can become brittle if exposed to too much air, so it’s important to store it in an airtight container. This will prevent the clay from drying out and becoming unusable.
- Keep Away From Heat: Air dry clay can also be affected by heat, so it’s important to keep it away from direct sunlight or any other sources of heat. This will also help prevent the clay from drying out too quickly.
- Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Along with avoiding heat, make sure to store your clay in a cool and dry place. This will help prevent any moisture from getting into the clay and causing it to become moldy.
- Separate Colors: If you have multiple colors of air dry clay, make sure to store them separately. This will prevent the colors from blending together and creating an undesired effect.
- Use Wax Paper or Plastic Wrap: If you’re storing painted air dry clay, it’s a good idea to wrap each individual piece in wax paper or plastic wrap. This will help protect the paint from rubbing off onto other pieces.
- Label and Date: It’s always a good idea to label your containers of air dry clay with the date that you stored it. This will help you keep track of how long the clay has been stored and if it’s still usable.
- Use Within Recommended Timeframe: Air dry clay typically has a recommended timeframe for use after opening, so make sure to check the packaging or do some research to determine how long you can store your particular brand of clay before it becomes unusable.
In addition to these storage considerations, it’s also important to handle and use your colored or painted air dry clay with care. Avoid applying excessive pressure or bending the clay too much, as this can cause it to crack or break.
Conclusion
In conclusion, storing air dry clay is an important aspect of working with this versatile and convenient material. By following the right storage techniques, you can prolong the life of your clay and ensure that it remains workable for future use.
Firstly, always make sure to store your air dry clay in an airtight container or bag. This will protect it from exposure to air which can cause it to dry out and become unusable. Additionally, storing in an airtight container will prevent any outside moisture from seeping into the clay and potentially altering its consistency.
I hope reading this post has helped you learn how to store air dry clay. Make sure the safety precautions are carried out in the order listed.