Modeling clay isn't meant to be dried or hardened.

Modeling clays contain oil along with regular clay. These

oils make them impossible to harden, and trying to stick
them in the oven like you might with regular clay
would cause the clay to melt into a puddle. Modeling clays
were designed to be like this, however. They were meant
to be worked with the hands, sculpted into a model for
inspiration, and then broken down before assuming a new
shape. If you happen to have one of the following clays
and want to harden it, however, see Step 1 for more
advice.
Steps

1.

1
Identify the kind of clay with which you're working.Common kinds of clay include
polymer clay (often called oven-hardening clay), self-hardening clay and fine art clay.
Since the type of clay has an equally powerful effect on how you build your model, this
is something you're better off knowing before you begin your projects.
Polymer clay does not technically contain clay. Instead, it has polymers

similar to PVC, with liquids added to make it moldable. It hardens usually in an oven
over low heat.
Self-hardening clay is exactly what it sounds like. You mold it, set it aside,

and let it harden over the course of several days. Unlike modeling clays, which are oil- or
wax-based, and polymer clays, which are resinous, self-hardening clays are waterbased.
o

Fine art clays are usually exactly like self-hardening clays, except that they
use high-quality clay and add only water.

2
Apply any pigments or glazes appropriate for painting on prior to hardening the
clay. Some pigments are applied after the clay hardens or in the middle of the
hardening process.
o

It's important to understand these aspects of any coloration prior to

starting your project.

3
Bake polymer clay and oven-hardening clay in a regular kitchen oven. Set a piece
of wax paper on top of a baking sheet, cutting it so that it matches the inside dimensions
of the sheet.
o

Most polymer or oven-based clays will harden after they are cooked at 265
F (129 C) to 275 F (135 C) for 15 minutes per 14 inch (6.4 mm) of thickness.

Remove the baking sheet from the oven, and place it on a heat-resistant
surface. Allow the clay items to cool at room temperature before removing.

4
Use patience when waiting for self-hardening clay to harden. Keep it out of the way
and trust time to do its work.
o

Set the finished model on wax paper on a baking sheet or similar flat and
stable surface.

Place the sheet someplace dry, at room temperature and out of direct
sunlight. For best results, set it out of the way of other activities. The top of a refrigerator
is a good example.Wait 7 to 10 days for the clay to dry completely.

5
Schedule time in a professional kiln to harden fine art clay. You can find these
facilities at local art stores, community colleges and community centers. If you're not
already intimately familiar with how to kiln-harden clay, let the people who run the kiln
fire your model.

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