Modelling clay and air dry clay are not necessarily the same thing.
“Modelling clay” is a broader term that describes any soft, putty-like material that can easily be shaped with the hands to make models and sculptures.
Air dry clay is therefore a type of modelling clay, as is something like plasticine, which is an oil-based material that doesn’t harden or dry out.
What is Modelling Clay?
Modelling clay is a general term for a soft material that can be moulded with the hands to make figures and models.
It can include materials such as:
- Air dry clay
- Polymer clay
- Plasticine
- Pottery clay
What is Air Dry Clay?
Air dry clay is a modelling material that hardens when it’s left exposed to air and its moisture evaporates.
Air dry clay is a very beginner-friendly material, as it doesn’t require the use of a heat source to dry (unlike polymer clay, which is baked in an oven, or pottery clay, which requires a kiln).
Air Dry Clay is used for small items, such as:
- Decorations
- Charms
- Jewellery
- Trinket dishes
It is not suitable for large sculptures, or crockery that is designed to hold food or water.
Does Modelling Clay Dry Out?
This depends entirely on which type of modelling clay you are using.
Plasticine doesn’t dry out and harden when exposed to air, making it a popular choice with children. It is therefore not designed for projects where you want to keep your design. Plasticine can be remoulded very easily and shaped into something new.
Air dry clay, on the other hand, will harden if it’s left out of its packaging and is exposed to air. Polymer and pottery clays will also harden with heat exposure.
Read Next
- Can You Bake Air-Dry Clay?
- Can Air-Dry Clay Get Wet After Drying?
- Air Dry Clay Supplies For Beginners