Clay is a versatile material used for various creative projects, and different types of clay exhibit varying properties when it comes to hardening. While some types of clay harden through air-drying, others require baking or firing in a kiln. Here are a few types of clay that harden after drying:
Polymer Clay
Polymer clay is a synthetic clay that hardens when cured in an oven at the appropriate temperature. It doesn’t require a kiln and is a popular choice for jewelry making, sculpting, and other crafts.
Salt Dough
Salt dough is a simple and easy-to-make clay that hardens when air-dried. It’s made from flour, salt, and water and is often used for crafting ornaments and decorations.
Cold Porcelain
Cold porcelain is a type of air-dry clay that has a smooth and porcelain-like finish when dried. It’s commonly used for creating intricate flowers, figurines, and small sculptures.
Modeling Clay
Some types of modeling clay, such as oil-based or sulfur-free clay, can harden over time when exposed to air. However, they may remain slightly flexible and are not as durable as other types of hardened clay.
Sculpture Mixes
Various sculpture mixes and self-hardening clays are formulated to harden after drying without the need for baking or firing. These clays often contain a combination of natural materials, additives, and binders.
When working with any type of clay, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying and hardening to achieve the best results.