How to Soften Modeling Clay

Just how do you turn that hard piece of modeling clay into a soft, easy-to-work-with piece so you can start your creative project? This super-easy craft idea will work.

Things You'll Need

• Any kind of plastic-based modeling clay (not Play-Doh)
• Small bowl of warm water
• Paper towels

Instructions

Getting Started

1. Unwrap your modeling clay and pull or tear off a piece of it that is just big enough to put into the palm of your hand.

2. Modeling clay reacts to the warmth of your body heat, so just start to knead it over and over until it becomes warm and pliable.

3. If your clay is especially hard, or even a little old, you can drop the modeling clay into the bowl of warm water. Since the clay is plastic-based, it won't soak up any of the water. After a few minutes or so, take the clay out and pat or blot it dry with a paper towel. Now your clay should be soft enough to knead into what ever your imagination can come up with!

Tips & Warnings

• Never eat modeling clay! Protect your table or craft surface with some plastic--thin Plexiglass works great for this! (You can find this in most craft stores for a few dollars, and once it is wiped clean, can be used over and over again.)