Sculpey
The Difference Between Polymer Clay and Air Dry Clay
Jan
Polymer and air-dry clay are great options for crafting and creating wonderful art and jewelry pieces. While both clays are useful products, they each have unique properties and advantages, from composition to finishings. People often wonder can you bake air dry clay? The answer is no which makes its drying process vastly different from polymer oven-bake clay. Air-dry modeling clay will harden at room temperature without baking. Polymer oven-bake clay, on the other hand, requires the proper application of heat to make it hard.
Polymer clay also won’t shrink as it hardens and sets, which can occur with air-dry clay. Learning the difference between polymer clay vs. air-dry clay can help you choose the right medium for your next project!
There are all kinds of clay out there, the two most popular being polymer and air-dry, and each has its unique properties. Here, we’ll talk about the differences between each type, as well as some advantages of choosing one over the other. You can also purchase both of these products directly from our website!
What Is Polymer Clay?
Polymer clay works great for many people and projects. It’s a favorite of many crafters because of its versatility and ease of use. With just a little bit of kneading, it becomes soft and malleable in your hands, making it easy to shape.
One of the main advantages of polymer clay is that you can leave it on your workspace without worrying about it getting dry. If you like taking breaks during crafting, or if you have forgetful kids, you don’t have to fret about wasting clay.
Once you’re done shaping polymer clay, you need to bake it. You don’t need to take it to a professional kiln to set it — you can use your own oven right at home!
Air-Dry Clay vs. Polymer Clay
Air-dry clay is slightly different than polymer clay. Like polymer clay, air-dry clay is commonly used for various projects and is popular for beginner craft projects.
Some of the best air-dry clay tips include:
- Always work on a clean surface with wax paper or a silicone craft mat.
- Experiment with stamps, cookie cutters, and other tools for unique designs.
- Condition your clay by kneading it before working on your project.
- Be careful when rolling your clay, as thin clay may crack when drying.
- Use the score and slip method to join pieces of clay.
- Allow enough time for the clay to dry, which can take 24 to 72 hours.
- Store leftover clay in an airtight container to use for another project.
- Apply varnish to seal a finished clay project.
Can You 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.
If you want your creation to harden faster, you could accelerate the process by baking it in the oven. This method requires great attention to avoid burning or melting the material.
Use a low temperature of 93°C when you bake air-dry clay. The baking time will vary depending on the clay’s thickness. You can leave thinner creations in the oven for around 20 minutes, monitoring it constantly. If your piece is thick, bake it until the moisture is completely evaporated and continuously check on it since it might crack if left too long.
Benefits of Polymer Clay
Polymer clay stays soft at room temperature, making it easy to work with and perfect for unfinished projects. It comes in a wide range of pre-made colors, including metallic, opal, and granite effects, offering endless creative possibilities.
Once baked, polymer clay becomes durable, slightly flexible, and resistant to water, ensuring long-lasting creations. It holds its shape well, allowing for precise and detailed designs, making it suitable for projects like figurines, jewelry, buttons, and more.
This versatile material is ideal for crafters, teachers, and children, combining ease of use with durability and creative potential.
- A permanent shape and resistance to water after curing.
- A wide range of color choices, from bright colors to pastel.
- Special effects like metallic, opal, granite and more.
Polymer Oven-Bake Clay: Cons
As a teacher or parent, there may be times when you opt for air-dry modeling clay over polymer oven-bake clay. Why? Polymer oven-bake clay:
- Requires close supervision at all times during baking. Polymer clay is only suitable for children ages 8 and up.
- You don’t have access to an oven and you cannot cure it.
Benefits of Air-Dry Clay
Air-dry clay is easy to manipulate due to its spongy texture, making it ideal for children and beginners. It’s especially suitable for child care environments, as it doesn’t require an oven—projects can dry naturally on display, accommodating larger creations.
This clay is perfect for schools and crafters because it needs no special tools and works well for mixed media projects, offering unique textures and appearances. Air-dry clay is durable when not rolled too thin, and sealing it with glaze increases its strength and water resistance.
- – Is easy to handle and manipulate.
- – Can be painted or colored with markers once dried.
- – Retains a permanent shape after drying.
- – Does not require exclusive products for finishing and glue.
- – Is suitable for all ages due to the variety of clay types on the market.
Air-Dry Modeling Clay: Cons
Clayers may opt for polymer oven-bake clay over air clay because:
- Air-dry clay requires long drying times, especially for large projects.
- Unused air-dry clay must be stored in a zip-close bag or air-tight container.
- Even after air-dry clay is hardened, it is not waterproof.
How Long Does Air-Dry Clay Take to Dry?
Air-dry clay typically takes 24–72 hours to dry, depending on thickness, temperature, and humidity. Larger pieces may take up to a week. Leftover clay should be stored in an airtight container to retain moisture.
To speed up drying, place the piece in the oven at 135°C (200°F) or use increased airflow with a fan. Avoid hairdryers, as uneven heating can cause cracks. Rotate and flip the piece occasionally for even drying.
For best results, allow the clay to harden naturally to prevent weakening or cracking. Avoid handling it during the drying process.
What Is Air-Dry Clay Best Used For?
The versatility of air-dry clay makes it ideal for new and experienced clayers alike. You can pinch, score and stamp it. Air-dry clay can also be embellished and painted.
Some example projects with air-dry modeling clay include the following:
- Planter
- Holder
- Animal Sculpters
- Letter Shaped Box
Planter
Holder
Animal Sculpter
Letter Shaped Box
Not sure where to start or which clay type is right for you? Explore ‘Sculpey Clay Types: The Perfect Match for Every Skill Level‘ to find your ideal choice!
