How to Sculpt With Air Dried Clay

Use air-dried clay to create clay sculptures without a kiln.

Air-dried clay makes an economical choice for an at-home craft enthusiast who does not have a kiln for baking, or firing, sculpted clay pieces. Air-dried clay consists of a wet paper pulp and other bonding materials that make its consistency much like traditional earthenware, but allows it to fully dry without heat. Practice working with air-dried clay to get a feel for its consistency and how to work with it.

Things You'll Need

• Wax paper
• Masking tape
• Sponge
• Rolling pin
• Clay sculpting tools

Instructions

1. Cover an area of a table or desk with a sheet of wax paper and tape it to the surface to keep it in place. This will help to keep the clay from sticking to the surface.

2. Wet a sponge so that it is damp and set it on the wax paper. You need this to keep your hands moist enough to work with the clay without it sticking to your skin.

3. Place the clay in the center of the wax paper, and wet your hands on the sponge.

4. Knead the clay to remove any air bubbles. Knead it until the clay's consistency is even, wetting your hands on the sponge whenever the clay begins to feel sticky.

5. Roll the clay into a ball, if you need a sphere shape, by holding your palm on top of it and moving your hand in small circles.

6. Roll the clay with a rolling pin to create a flat slab if you need a flattened piece for sculpture.

7. Use clay sculpting tools, or even plastic cutlery, to cut through the clay and add carved detail.

8. Score edges that you are putting together by carving tiny lines in the areas that need to be attached together. Use a stylus clay sculpture tool or the tines of a plastic fork.

9. Smooth the finished piece with your fingers and allow the clay to dry according to the package instructions.