How do you protect air dry clay?

If stored properly, unused air dry clay should last indefinitely. We recommend wrapping the unused clay in plastic wrap or in a Ziploc bag, and then in another airtight container.
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What can I use to seal air dry clay?

If you want to make your clay water-resistant I always recommend using either a clear polyurethane varnish or an acrylic sealer. Both of these create a non-porous transparent layer that seals your clay project. They can be brushed or sprayed on and usually come in either a matt, satin or gloss finish.
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How do you seal air dry clay so it doesn't crack?

As you mold and knead clay water will evaporate and your clay becomes stiffer. Adding small amounts of water is crucial to prevent small cracks. To prevent the clay from drying out too quickly, mist the clay occasionally while modeling.
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How do you make air dry clay last longer?

A coat of acrylic paint, sealant, varnish, or lacquer makes the air modeling clay craft stronger. You can apply several coats but make sure that the previous layer dried completely.
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Why is my air dry clay crumbling?

Cracking is normal in air dry clays: it's caused by shrinkage because of the loss of the water inside the clay body. Cracking in air dry clay is typically caused by sculpting over an armature or using a lot of water, either to mix the clay or to help it adhere onto a previous layer.
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Air Dry Clay - How to Glaze and Finish



Can U bake air dry clay?

You don't need an oven to harden or bake air dry clay. Depending on the size of the project, air-dry clay will fully set in one or two days. After it dries, the clay has an almost porous, spongy feel. Baking air dry clay is not recommended as it sets on its own and baking air dry clay can ruin your project.
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Do you need to glaze air dry clay?

Since air dry clay isn't fired, you won't be using any glaze. Avoiding glaze saves you a lot of money, but removes the magic of things like colorburst glazes. Just as with regular clay, encourage your students to experiment with different ways to add color.
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Can you seal clay with Mod Podge?

It's really easy to use Mod Podge and clay together (including polymer and air dry). Mod Podge is a great sealer for clay, which is what makes it so perfect for these charms/gift tags.
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Does Mod Podge waterproof?

As I said before, no, Mod Podge is not waterproof. The longer answer has to do with the makeup of the product. Mod Podge is a craft supply made up of several ingredients, including vinyl acetate. The combination produces a product that is somewhat water resistant, but not waterproof.
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How do you make clay shiny without glaze?

You can sand, buff, and polish the clay itself (see below), or you can apply a glossy varnish. To make your clay project less shiny, you could apply a matte varnish. Note that adding a glossy varnish can make translucent polymer clay seem more clear.
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Can you put polyurethane on clay?

Chances are good that there is wood in your home that is finished with polyurethane. It's been a favorite of polymer clay artists for over 25 years because it just works.
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How do you make varnish for clay?

Air Dry Clay Glaze Recipe.
  1. Pour the whole bottle of clear nail varnish into a bowl.
  2. Add two tablespoons of clear craft glue.
  3. Next add three tablespoons of bottled water and mix together.
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What can I use instead of varnish?

A simple varnish suitable for children's craft projects can be made using PVA glue and water.
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Should I use Polycrylic or polyurethane?

The formula has an acrylic base; polyurethane is added for better adhesion and durability. Polycrylic is not as durable as polyurethane and is meant to be used only on interior surfaces such as cabinets, furniture, and trim.
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Can you use Polycrylic on clay?

For general purposes, most polymer clay artists and hobbyists of the day are using water-based polyurethane finishes (such as Rust-Oleum's Varathane or Minwax's Polycrylic) or Future floor finish.
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Is air dry clay durable?

Air-dry clay results in durable finished projects once the clay is fully dried and cured. This clay is very soft and malleable, making it ideal for all ages. Larger pieces made from air-dry clay are also more durable when compared to finer pieces with small parts.
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Why do you burnish clay?

Burnishing is an ancient tradition and evolved before glazes had been developed (source). It was used as a way of decorating ware, but also making pottery a little more water-resistant. Whilst burnishing does create a moisture repellent surface, especially if waxed, it is not watertight.
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What can I put over Mod Podge to make it waterproof?

Just put 2 parts cheap white glue and 1 part water in a jar and shake. Use as you would your Mod Podge. Only difference is it creates a matte finish, which is actually really nice!
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What kind of Mod Podge is waterproof?

Outdoor Mod Podge is water resistant and is most durable when used on projects that are in a sheltered area. If your project is going to be constantly exposed to the elements like sun and rain, I recommend a brush on waterproof/UV sealer like this one.
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