How to Keep a Clay Model Hard

Oven drying clay will preserve it forever, turning a soft clay bowl into useful kitchenware.

Modeling clay is used to mold a variety of objects ranging from decorative pieces to useful home items. Preserving a prized creation will allow you to share and enjoy your clay model for years. Heat is the fastest and most effective method for permanently hardening clay models. Depending on the thickness of the model and type of clay, hardening time will vary. Regardless, keeping a clay model hard is straightforward, requiring only a few common kitchen items.

Things You'll Need

• Baking tray
• Aluminum foil
• Oven

Instructions

1. Preheat an oven to 230 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Line a baking tray with aluminum foil.

3. Place the clay model on the aluminum-lined baking tray.

4. Place the baking tray into the oven once it has preheated.

5. Monitor the clay model carefully as it dries, watching as wet spots disappear. Remove the clay model once it has completely dried. Don't allow the piece to dry in the oven for more than 30 minutes.

Tips & Warnings

• You can also air dry clay models by storing them in a dry place for 10 to 15 days; however, it's more likely to crack and fray during air drying.

• Repair cracks and broken pieces with epoxy.

• Paint the modeling clay with ceramic or clay glaze to give the clay a finished, smooth aesthetic.

References

• Staedtler: FIMO Instructions for Use
• Golding Craft: Air Drying Clay