Ways to Dry Model Magic

Dry your model magic creations to preserve them.

Model magic is a brand name molding clay produced by the Crayola company. Model magic comes in many colors and can be used by children and adults to create works of art. This type of clay does not require you to bake it in a kiln or oven; instead, it dries via exposure to air.

Air Dry

Model magic will air dry in 24 to 48 hours if placed in the proper environment. Choose a warm room with good air circulation. The room should also be bright with indirect sunlight. Place your model magic on a flat, sturdy surface out of the reach of children or pets. Choose an area where the model magic can sit without being disturbed. Leave your model magic to sit for 24 hours; small, thin pieces of model magic should dry by this time. Large, thick pieces of model magic may take another 24 hours to dry completely.

Blow Dryer

If you wish to speed the drying process of your model magic creation, you can use a blow dryer set to its lowest heat and air speed settings. Place the model magic on a flat surface. Turn on the blow dryer, and hold it at least 1 foot away from the model magic. Move the blow dryer up and down or back and forth evenly to direct the air over the surface of the model magic. Turn the sculpture every two to three minutes to ensure you are exposing its surface evenly to the warm air. Stop the blow dryer once the model magic feels dry to the touch.

Fan

Add extra air circulation over your model magic creation with a fan to dry the clay. Set the model magic on a flat surface. Check to ensure all sides of the model magic are exposed freely to air. Move any objects that may block the moving air from reaching the model magic. Turn on a fan at low speed, and position it so the stream of air is directed at the model magic. Keep the fan 12 to 18 inches away from the model magic. Rotate the model magic one quarter turn every hour until it feels dry to the touch.

Sunlight

Use the heat and energy of the sun to dry your model magic. Place your model magic on a piece of cardboard. Set the cardboard outside on a porch, patio, driveway or lawn in an area that receives full, direct sunlight. Check the model magic every 30 minutes to one hour to ensure it remains in full sun. Remove the model magic from the sun once has dried to the touch. Avoid leaving the model magic in the sunlight unsupervised for long periods, as it may dry to the point of cracking.

References

• Crayola: Model Magic
• Crayola: Air Dry Clay Tips for Use
• Crayola: Impressive Impressions