How to Dry Modeling Clay

When drying clay, it is important to dry it correctly.

If you are sculpting a modeling clay creation that you want to harden, it is important to dry the clay in a specific way so that the clay does not crack, split or crumble. If the clay is dried too quickly, it could ruin the entire creation. Luckily, there are a few helpful techniques for drying modeling clay that will enable your sculpture to dry unscathed and be ready for painting.

Things You'll Need

• Water-based modeling clay
• Sponge
• Plastic wrap

Instructions

1. Place your clay sculpture onto a flat surface.

2. Wet a sponge, squeeze it out, and place it next to your sculpture.

3. Loosely cover the sculpture and sponge with plastic wrap.

4. Allow the sculpture to remain under the plastic wrap to dry. If the sponge dries out, re-wet it and place it back under the plastic wrap.

5. Once the outside of the clay sculpture is dry to the touch, remove the plastic wrap and let the sculpture air dry.

6. After two to three days, bake the dried sculpture in a kiln.

References

• Goshen College Art Department: How to Dry Slabs Without Warping
• University of Manitoba: Drying Clay