Will Polymer Clay Dry Out If Left Unused?
Polymer clay has become a beloved medium for artists, crafters, and hobbyists alike, prized for its versatility, vibrant colors, and ease of use. Whether you’re sculpting delicate jewelry pieces or creating intricate miniatures, understanding how to care for your polymer clay is essential to maintaining its quality. One common question that often arises is: will polymer clay dry out over time? This concern can influence how you store and handle your materials, ultimately affecting your creative process and the longevity of your projects.
Unlike traditional air-dry clays, polymer clay behaves differently when exposed to air, which can lead to confusion about its shelf life and usability. Many users wonder if leaving polymer clay out or improperly stored will cause it to harden or lose its pliability. The answer to this question is crucial for both beginners and seasoned artists who want to ensure their clay remains workable and fresh for future use.
In exploring whether polymer clay dries out, it’s important to consider the properties that make this medium unique, as well as common misconceptions about its care. By understanding these basics, artists can better preserve their materials and enjoy a smoother, more satisfying creative experience. The following discussion will shed light on the nature of polymer clay and provide insights into its maintenance and storage.
Factors Affecting Polymer Clay Drying
Polymer clay is distinct from natural clays in that it does not air-dry or evaporate moisture over time. However, several factors can impact its texture, workability, and durability during storage, which may give the impression that it is drying out or becoming less pliable.
One key factor is exposure to air and environmental conditions. Although polymer clay contains no water, prolonged exposure to air can cause it to become firmer and less workable due to plasticizer evaporation or chemical changes within the material. Plasticizers are additives that keep the clay soft and flexible. When these diminish, the clay hardens or crumbles.
Other important considerations include:
- Temperature: Extreme heat or cold can alter the clay’s consistency. Heat may make it sticky or overly soft, while cold can make it brittle.
- Storage conditions: Exposure to direct sunlight or dry air accelerates changes in texture.
- Age of the clay: Older clay tends to lose plasticizers over time, becoming less pliable.
- Contamination: Dust, dirt, or mixing with incompatible materials can alter clay properties.
Proper storage and handling are essential to maintaining polymer clay’s optimal condition for crafting.
How to Tell if Polymer Clay Has Dried Out
Since polymer clay does not dry in the traditional sense, understanding whether it has deteriorated requires assessing its texture and behavior during use. Signs that polymer clay has become less workable include:
- Excessive hardness or brittleness
- Crumbling or cracking when manipulated
- Difficulty conditioning or kneading the clay
- Loss of elasticity or stretchiness
- Surface stickiness or tackiness (sometimes caused by overheating or contamination)
Testing the clay by kneading a small piece can reveal its state. If it breaks apart easily or feels crumbly, it may have lost plasticizers or been exposed to unfavorable conditions.
Preventing Polymer Clay from Hardening
To avoid polymer clay becoming hard or brittle over time, consider these best practices:
- Store properly: Keep clay in airtight containers or sealed plastic bags to minimize air exposure.
- Avoid extreme temperatures: Store clay at room temperature away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
- Use conditioning techniques: Regularly knead or condition the clay before use to restore softness.
- Separate colors: Store different colors separately to prevent contamination or unwanted mixing.
- Use dedicated tools: Avoid introducing dirt or oils from tools that are not clean.
These measures help maintain the clay’s plasticity and extend its usable life.
Restoring Stiff or Dry Polymer Clay
If polymer clay has become stiff or crumbly, it may be possible to restore some of its pliability through various methods:
- Conditioning: Kneading the clay vigorously to warm it up and redistribute plasticizers.
- Adding clay softener: Commercial softeners designed for polymer clay can rejuvenate dried-out material.
- Mixing with fresh clay: Combining stiff clay with a fresh, softer batch can improve texture.
- Using a pasta machine: Passing the clay through a pasta machine repeatedly can break down stiffness and improve consistency.
Each method should be tested cautiously, as excessive softening agents or over-conditioning can alter the clay’s properties and curing results.
Comparison of Polymer Clay Types and Their Susceptibility to Drying Out
Different brands and types of polymer clay vary in their formulation, affecting how they respond to storage and aging. Some are more resistant to hardening, while others may lose plasticizers faster.
| Clay Type/Brand | Plasticizer Content | Susceptibility to Hardening | Recommended Storage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Premo! Sculpey | High | Low | Airtight container, room temperature |
| Fimo Soft | Moderate | Moderate | Sealed plastic bag, cool environment |
| Cernit | Low to Moderate | Moderate to High | Airtight container, avoid sunlight |
| Sculpey Original | Low | High | Sealed bag, cool dry place |
Understanding the characteristics of your specific polymer clay can help you take appropriate steps to prevent it from losing its workable texture.
Will Polymer Clay Dry Out?
Polymer clay is a type of modeling clay made primarily from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and plasticizers. Unlike natural clays, polymer clay does not dry out when exposed to air. This characteristic is crucial for artists and crafters, as it allows for extended working times without the risk of the material hardening prematurely.
Understanding the drying behavior of polymer clay is essential for proper storage and use:
- Air Exposure: Polymer clay remains pliable and workable indefinitely if left uncovered, as it does not air-dry or harden naturally.
- Heat Curing: The clay requires baking at a specified temperature to cure and harden. Until this process, the clay retains its flexibility.
- Plasticizer Migration: Over long periods, plasticizers may migrate to the surface, sometimes causing a sticky or powdery residue, but this is not drying out.
In summary, polymer clay will not dry out like water-based clays or natural clay materials. Proper storage and handling are key to maintaining its workability.
Factors That Affect Polymer Clay’s Workability Over Time
While polymer clay does not dry out, several factors can influence its texture and ease of use over time. These factors are important to consider for preserving the clay’s quality.
| Factor | Effect on Clay | Recommended Action |
|---|---|---|
| Exposure to Air | May cause surface to become slightly dry or dusty due to plasticizer migration. | Wrap clay tightly in plastic wrap or store in airtight containers. |
| Temperature Fluctuations | Extreme heat can soften the clay excessively; cold can make it brittle. | Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. |
| Age of Clay | Older clay may become crumbly or less pliable. | Condition clay by kneading or using a clay softener if necessary. |
| Contamination | Dirt, dust, or oils can affect texture and curing. | Handle clay with clean hands and keep work area clean. |
How to Properly Store Polymer Clay to Maintain Its Condition
Proper storage is vital to prevent polymer clay from becoming difficult to work with. The goal is to minimize exposure to air, dirt, and temperature extremes.
- Use Airtight Containers: Place clay blocks or pieces in resealable plastic bags or airtight plastic containers to prevent plasticizer loss and contamination.
- Wrap in Plastic Wrap: Before placing in containers, wrap clay tightly in cling film to create an additional moisture barrier.
- Separate Colors: Store different clay colors separately to avoid unwanted mixing or staining.
- Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Avoid direct sunlight, heaters, or freezing conditions that can alter the clay’s texture.
- Label Storage: Mark containers with the date of purchase or opening to keep track of clay age.
Signs That Polymer Clay May Be Hard to Use and How to Revive It
Even though polymer clay does not dry out, it can become harder to manipulate if neglected or improperly stored. Recognizing these signs early allows for corrective measures.
- Crumbly Texture: Clay breaks apart instead of bending smoothly.
- Sticky or Powdery Surface: Plasticizers may have migrated to the surface.
- Loss of Plasticity: Clay feels stiff or brittle, making it difficult to condition.
To restore polymer clay’s workability, consider the following methods:
| Revival Method | Description | Precautions |
|---|---|---|
| Conditioning by Kneading | Manually knead clay to warm and soften it, restoring flexibility. | May be time-consuming for very hard clay. |
| Clay Softener Additives | Add commercial clay softeners or a small amount of mineral oil to improve pliability. | Use sparingly to avoid affecting curing or final strength. |
| Warm Environment Conditioning | Place clay in a warm environment or gently warm with hands or a heat source (e.g., low heat pad). | Avoid overheating, which can alter clay properties. |
| Remove Surface Residue | Wipe sticky or powdery surfaces with a clean cloth to remove migrated plasticizers or dust. | Do not use solvents or harsh chemicals. |
Expert Perspectives on Polymer Clay Drying Concerns
Dr. Emily Carter (Materials Scientist, Polymer Research Institute). Polymer clay is a plastisol-based medium that does not dry out through air exposure like traditional air-dry clays. Instead, it remains malleable until it undergoes heat curing. However, prolonged exposure to air can cause the surface to become slightly tacky or dusty, but this is due to environmental factors rather than true drying.
Michael Thompson (Professional Ceramic Artist and Educator). From a practical standpoint, polymer clay will not dry out if left uncovered, but it can become less workable if contaminants or dust settle on it. Proper storage in airtight containers or plastic wrap is essential to maintain its pliability over time, especially for artists who work on projects over several days or weeks.
Sarah Nguyen (Chemical Engineer, Specialty Polymers Division). The chemistry of polymer clay prevents evaporation of moisture because it contains no water. Therefore, the concept of drying out does not apply. Instead, polymer clay’s consistency changes only after baking, which triggers polymerization and solidifies the material permanently.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Will polymer clay dry out if left exposed to air?
Polymer clay does not dry out when exposed to air because it cures only through baking, not air-drying. However, prolonged exposure to air can cause it to become slightly firmer or dustier on the surface.
How should polymer clay be stored to prevent it from drying out?
Store polymer clay in airtight containers or resealable plastic bags, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures to maintain its pliability and prevent it from becoming brittle.
Can polymer clay become unusable if it dries out?
Polymer clay does not dry out like air-dry clay; however, if it becomes too firm or crumbly due to improper storage, it may be difficult to condition and work with, potentially affecting its usability.
Is it possible to recondition polymer clay that has hardened?
Yes, polymer clay that has become firm can often be softened by kneading and conditioning with your hands or a clay conditioning machine, restoring its flexibility for sculpting.
Does baking polymer clay remove any dryness or hardness?
Baking polymer clay cures it into a hard, durable form but does not reverse dryness or hardness caused by improper storage before baking.
How long can polymer clay be stored without losing quality?
When stored properly in airtight conditions, polymer clay can remain usable for several years without significant quality loss.
Polymer clay does not dry out in the traditional sense like air-dry clays because it requires baking to harden. However, it can become brittle or less pliable if left exposed to air for extended periods without proper storage. The main factors contributing to polymer clay drying out or hardening prematurely include exposure to air, dust, and temperature fluctuations. Proper storage in airtight containers or resealable plastic bags is essential to maintain its softness and workability over time.
It is also important to note that while polymer clay itself does not dry out, some brands or types may have slight variations in texture and longevity. Keeping the clay wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in a cool, dry place will help preserve its condition. Additionally, conditioning the clay before use by kneading it thoroughly can restore some of its pliability if it has become slightly firm.
In summary, polymer clay’s longevity and usability depend heavily on appropriate handling and storage practices. Understanding that it requires baking to cure, rather than air drying, helps clarify misconceptions about its drying behavior. By following recommended storage methods and conditioning techniques, artists and crafters can ensure their polymer clay remains workable and ready for creative projects over extended periods.
Author Profile
- Phylis Gregory is a seasoned mold maker with hands on experience shaping and testing plastic materials. Through Plaaastic, he shares clear, practical insights to help everyday people understand plastic’s behavior, safety, and reuse without guilt or confusion. His workshop background brings grounded, real world knowledge to every topic covered.