As a professional potter, I have had my fair share of experiences with different types of clay, but one that often stands out in the pottery world is air dry clay. Its a type of clay that does not require firing to harden and can be used for various purposes such as making sculptures, jewelry, and other decorative items. However, like all things, air dry clay has its pros and cons, which I will outline in this article.
Pros:
Accessibility: Air dry clay is readily available in most craft stores, and its affordable. Unlike other types of clay, you dont need a kiln to use it or any other special equipment, making it perfect for beginners or those who dont have access to a studio.
Easy to use: Its easy to work with, as its soft and pliable. This allows for a lot of flexibility in shaping and forming the clay without fear of it drying out or cracking. You can even use molds with air dry clay.
Drying time: Air dry clay dries pretty quickly, unlike other types of clay that can take weeks or months to dry. This means you can work on your project and have it done in a relatively short amount of time.
Paintable: Once the clay has dried, its easy to paint, making it perfect for those who want to add color to their projects.
Cons:
Durability: Although air dry clay is easy to use, its not as durable as other types of clay, such as polymer clay or ceramic clay. Its prone to cracking and chipping if not handled with care, making it less suited for items that receive a lot of wear and tear.
Weight: Air dry clay can be quite heavy, which can make it difficult to use for larger projects, such as sculptures or large pots.
Shrinkage: As air dry clay dries, it shrinks, which can cause the shape of your project to change slightly. This can be frustrating, especially if you spent a lot of time perfecting the shape.
Limited colors: Air dry clay comes in a limited range of colors compared to other types of clay. This means that if you want a specific color, you may have to paint it afterward, which can add extra time to the process.
Not suitable for some projects: Due to its lack of durability, air dry clay may not be suitable for all types of projects, such as items that will be used for cooking or serving food. Additionally, its not recommended for items that will be left outside, as it will not hold up over time.
In conclusion, air dry clay can be a great option for those new to pottery or those who want a quick and easy project. However, its important to keep in mind its limitations and drawbacks, such as its lack of durability and limited color options. As a professional potter, I believe that having a variety of clay options at your disposal is always best, but air dry clay can certainly be a useful addition to any potter’s toolkit. So, go ahead, give it a try, and let your creativity soar just remember to handle it with care!
