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What Is Modeling Clay?

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Modeling clay is a flexible material that can be molded in a variety of ways and may be very long-lasting, in the case of hardening clays. A number of materials can be used to make modeling clay and some products do not actually contain true clays, but are workable and behave like clay. These products are used by crafters, artists, and technical designers who may have reason to make clay models. They are also used in a type of animation known as claymation.

Ceramic, oil, dough, paper, and polymers can all be used as a base for modeling clay. The most appropriate type of modeling clay to use can depend on the application. Broadly, they are divided into hardening and non-hardening clays. Non-hardening clays like those used in claymation remain flexible so they can be adjusted. Hardening clays are designed to firm up to make a permanent project.

Colored polymer modeling clay.
Colored polymer modeling clay.

Some hardening clays air harden and will dry simply by being left out. If the user still wants to work on a project, she can mist it with liquid and bag it in plastic to prevent water loss. Other clays harden when exposed to heat, either in an oven for home crafts or a kiln. In the case of pottery clays, the clay undergoes a chemical transformation in the kiln and will change structure to create a very hard finished product.

Modeling clay may be used to create clay models for claymation.
Modeling clay may be used to create clay models for claymation.

Paper clays tend to be fast drying and lightweight. Polymer clays can be flexible or hardening and may be useful for a wide range of projects, while pottery clays are typically heavy. Dough clays are common for home crafts, especially with children who want to explore modeling. Some are nontoxic and designed specifically for kids. They also take dyes very well and can be blended to create different shades and tints of color.

Polymer clays can be either flexible or hardening, making them a good choice for children's crafts.
Polymer clays can be either flexible or hardening, making them a good choice for children's crafts.

Art supply stores often sell modeling clay and usually have a range of brands and types available. If customers are not certain about the best clay for their needs, they can discuss the options with a clerk. The store may also have samples people can use to determine how workable the clay is, and may have displays of finished products to allow consumers to see how the clay looks after being worked. Some stores also offer classes to give customers an opportunity to work with different clays under the supervision of an instructor who can provide tips and tricks.

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a HomeQuestionsAnswered researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a HomeQuestionsAnswered researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

anon346984

I know how to make clay. In fact, I wrote a book on the subject.

Sara007

If you buy some air-dry modeling clay you can have a lot of fun making different things with your kids. Crayola modeling clay is a great product. All you have to do is take it out of the bucket and you can start making things right away. Since you don't need an oven projects are finished really quickly.

My kids are always getting excited about new characters on TV, so instead of constantly having to buy new toys, I get them to make different figurines. They have actually gotten really good at making them and I have even been surprised a few times at how creative they are with crafting items from the shows they watch.

popcorn

Does anyone know how to make clay?

I would like to start making some figurines and it seems like the modeling clay for sale is a bit expensive. There is a shop near my home that will let me use their workshop materials for a fee, so I just need to figure out away to cut costs.

If anyone has a modeling clay recipe please share. It would be great if it was colored clay.

Right now I am using basic air dry modeling clay but would like to get start making things with a bit more of a professional look to them.

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    • Colored polymer modeling clay.
      By: vadim yerofeyev
      Colored polymer modeling clay.
    • Modeling clay may be used to create clay models for claymation.
      By: Yermashkevich Pavel
      Modeling clay may be used to create clay models for claymation.
    • Polymer clays can be either flexible or hardening, making them a good choice for children's crafts.
      By: photopalace
      Polymer clays can be either flexible or hardening, making them a good choice for children's crafts.
    • Modeling clay can be formed using a number of different tools.
      By: cosma
      Modeling clay can be formed using a number of different tools.
    • Polymer clay can be used to make beads for jewelry.
      By: Pavel Drozda
      Polymer clay can be used to make beads for jewelry.