When it comes to the world of crafting and pottery, there’s no shortage of options. From air dry clay to self hardening clay, there are a number of clays and compounds to choose from for your next project. But, is self hardening clay the same thing as air dry clay? More importantly, which is better?
The Difference Between Self Hardening Clay and Air Dry Clay
Self hardening clay, also called baked clay or low-fire clay, is a type of pottery clay that hardens without being subjected to any additional heat. This type of clay is heavily water-based and can be shaped into any form you desire; however, it does not require a kiln to become durable and strong. Typically, self hardening clay takes 2-5 days to air dry once it has been shaped and left to sit.
Air dry clay is clay that has very few additives, making it drastically different from other kinds of clay. As the name implies, air dry clay is dried using only the air; however, this process can take up to a month and a half, depending on climate and environment. Unlike self hardening clay, air dry clay may require a kiln to achieve a durable finish.
When working with air dry clay, it is important to remember that it is much more fragile than self hardening clay. It is also more prone to cracking and warping, so it is important to take extra care when handling it. Additionally, air dry clay is not waterproof, so it is not suitable for outdoor projects.
Advantages of Self Hardening Clay
The primary advantage of self hardening clay is that it does not require a kiln. This makes it much more accessible for hobbyists, who may not have access to the necessary equipment for firing pottery. Additionally, self hardening clay is much smoother in texture than air dry clay so that it can be easily shaped and molded into more intricate forms.
Advantages of Air Dry Clay
The primary advantage of air dry clay is its durability. Once Air dry clay has been placed in the kiln, it can be fired many times at a variety of high temperatures to achieve a durable finish. Furthermore, the process of drying with air ensures that the pottery pieces retain their original shape throughout the entire process.
Disadvantages of Self Hardening Clay
The primary disadvantage of self hardening clay is its limited color palette. As the clay is not heated to very high temperatures during the firing process, only a few pigments and glazes may be used; however, this also means that many surfaces will not be as shiny or hard when compared to air dry clay.
Disadvantages of Air Dry Clay
The primary disadvantage of air dry clay is its lengthy drying time; as previously mentioned, it can take weeks for pieces to fully dry depending on the environment. Additionally, air dry clay can be difficult to mold and shape due to its coarser texture.
How to Use Self Hardening Clay
To use self hardening clay, first you must knead it for about five minutes until it’s pliable. Next, shape the clay into projects such as pots, cups, tiles or figurines. Allow the finished projects to air dry for 2-5 days in an area where they won’t be disturbed. Finally, you may paint the finished product with craft acrylic paints when desired.
How to Use Air Dry Clay
Using air dry clay is similar to using self hardening clay. Begin by kneading the clay for 5 minutes until it’s pliable. Next, shape the clay into desired pieces such as tiles, figurines, or cups. Allow the pieces to air dry for 1-1.5 months in an area that won’t be disturbed. Once fully dry you may opt to fire the pieces in a kiln or simply paint them with craft acrylic paints.
Projects That Are Best Suited For Self Hardening Clay
Self hardening clay projects are best suited for light-use items such as figurines, jewelry pieces, tiles or coasters due to its lack of strength after curing. It’s also an ideal choice for sculptures or projects where intricate details need to be molded.
Projects That Are Best Suited For Air Dry Clay
Air dry clay is best for making more functional items such as small planters or pots due to superior strength after firing. This type of clay is also ideal for creating larger sculptures or projects where intricate details are desired but strength is essential.
Tips for Working With Self Hardening Clay
When working with self hardening clay, use upward strokes when sculpting, avoid adding too much water to help prevent it from cracking during the drying process and ensure there are no air pockets left inside your pieces.
Tips for Working With Air Dry Clay
When using air dry clay, be sure to condition the clay as much as possible before shaping items and guard against drying too quickly by covering all of your pieces with humidifiers. Additionally, consider spraying your surfaces with fixatives before painting to keep pigments in place.
Self hardening clay and air dry clay are both amazing and useful types of clays. You should choose one depending on your own individual requirements such as budget, skill level and time available.
