Clay is a great material for sculpting and it helps both kids and adults express themselves in a fun medium. Not long ago, most clay had to be baked or fired in a kiln in order to be finished but all this has changed. You can buy materials like Crayola Model Magic and there is no need for baking, as it will dry and harden within a few days time. But what is this type of clay and is it the best choice for you or your family? Let’s dig a little deeper into the subject to see.
Air Dry or Standard – What’s the Difference?
Standard or polymer clay has been around for some time and it stays soft until you kiln fire it, and it then becomes hard like ceramic. Polymer clay gets its name from the PVC in it and you can find standard clay in a wide range of colors.
Air dry clay is now available in colors but for a long time it was basically white or clear. Its main ingredients are adhesive, resin and paper. “No bake” clay (like Crayola Model Magic) is not as durable as polymer clay. It also can be affected by water or excessive heat.
What about Kids?
Air dry clay is safe enough for kids and it is non toxic. However, most of these products are recommended for children three years and older. Some manufacturers recommend a minimum age of 6. Most young people enjoy working with this clay because it stays soft for some time and is easy to sculpt. In addition, you can buy sets with four basic colors and mix them to get any color you like. This teaches kids about creating and mixing colors.
Perhaps one of the best features of no bake modeling clay, is the no baking factor. This is excellent for young people and cleaning up afterward is simple and easy. Plus, there is no need to work around hot kilns or ovens, so it is much safer than standard clay.
As no bake clay technology develops it has become easier to work with and some products are polymer based now instead of water based. However, some parents complain the product is hard to find locally. Thankfully you can find Crayola Model Magic and other fun products when you shop with a trusted online art supply source. Shopping is very easy and you enjoy the convenience of a wide product selection with home delivery.