How to Color Air Dry Clay

Air-dry earthenware clay (clay that hardens when exposed to air after sculpting) is generally designed for use in projects that don't require color, or projects that are colored with paint after hardening. However, for some projects, getting the right kind of color detail is only possible with clay that is already colored. To get these effects with air-dry clay, you can color your own using makeshift powder pigments.

Things You'll Need

• Air-dry clay
• Unsweetened drink mix packets, multiple colors
• Waterproofing sealant

Instructions

1. Soften and moisten the clay. Work it in your hands while mixing in water, a few drops at a time, until the clay is soft, pliable and slightly on the moist side compared to what you normally like to work with; this will help the color powder stick and mix well.

2. Divide the clay into portions according to the colors you want. If the portions are small, cover them with plastic wrap to keep them from drying out while you're working with other portions of clay.

3. Press your finger into each ball of clay to create a small cup-like indentation. Make it about a 1/2 inch deep.

4. Work drink mix powder into each ball of clay. Pour the powder into the indentation, then seal and work the clay around it. Continue kneading the clay until the color mixes evenly throughout.

5. Repeat Steps 3 and 4 until the color is as deep as you want it to be.

6. Wash your hands before working with the next ball of clay; this will keep the color from the first section of clay from transferring to the next section.

7. Sculpt with the clay carefully to avoid getting dye on clothing. The color may still transfer while the clay and dye are wet, but once it's dry, it will be fixed in place.

8. Apply waterproofing sealant to the dried, hardened clay.