How to Make Sturdy Modeling Clay
Modeling clay is a general term referring to easy-to-mold types of clay, used primarily in sculpting. These types of clay include polymer clay, which is hardened when baked, oil-based clay, mostly known by the brand name "Plasticine," and the air-dry clay. The latter type, also known as self-hardening clay or air-hardening clay, does not require baking, as it becomes considerably harder when exposed to a dry environment, contrary to Plasticine. Self-hardening clay is commercially available, but you can also make your own air-dry clay, using easy-to-find materials.
Things You'll Need
- 1 1/2 cups salt
- 4 cups flour
- 1 teaspoon alum
- 1 1/2 cups water
- Bowl
- Spoon
- 2-gallon resealable zipper storage bag
Instructions
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1
Pour 1 1/2 cups salt, 4 cups flour and 1 teaspoon alum in a mixing bowl. Mix the three ingredients together, using a spoon.
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2
Pour 1/4 cup of water into the bowl, and mix it with the ingredients. When the ingredients absorb most of the water, pour another 1/4 cup of water into the mixture. Repeat the process until you have poured 1 1/2 cups of water.
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3
Pound and roll the soaked ingredients with your hands. Keep doing this until the contents of the bowl turn into a solid substance.
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4
Use the air-dry clay immediately or place the substance into a 2-gallon resealable zipper storage bag. Store the bag in the refrigerator.
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5
Remove the bag from the refrigerator, and wait until it comes to room temperature to use the clay after storage. When you complete your model, leave it in a dry environment for two days. The clay will become as hard as polymer clay after baking.
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Tips & Warnings
Do not bake the clay or put it under the sun or next to the radiator to hasten the hardening process.
Do not wash your hands in the kitchen or bathroom sink, as self-hardening clay can block your plumbing system. Instead, use a bucket or a garden faucet.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Seiya Kawamoto/Digital Vision/Getty Images
