How to Store Used Air Dry Clay?

Properly storing used air dry clay involves keeping it airtight to prevent drying, and you can even revive clay that has started to dry out.

Used air dry clay should be stored immediately after use in an airtight container or wrapping to maintain its workability. The key is to prevent air from reaching the clay, which causes it to dry and harden.

Essential Steps for Storing Used Air Dry Clay

To keep your leftover air dry clay fresh and ready for your next project, follow these simple steps:

1. Wrap Tightly: Wrap the clay tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring there are no gaps where air can enter.
2. Seal in a Bag: Place the wrapped clay inside a zip-top plastic bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing the bag completely.
3. Use an Airtight Container: For extra protection, place the sealed bag into an airtight container with a lid. This provides an additional barrier against air.
4. Store in a Cool Place: Keep the stored clay in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight or heat, which can accelerate drying.

By minimizing air exposure, you significantly extend the shelf life of your used air dry clay.

How to Revive Dried Out Air Dry Clay

Sometimes, despite careful storage, air dry clay can start to dry out. The good news is that it's often possible to bring it back to a workable state using moisture.

According to our reference from April 6, 2021, if you have some leftover clay that dries out, you can reuse it by sealing it in a zip lock bag with water. This simple method allows the clay to reabsorb moisture.

Here’s a step-by-step guide based on this technique:

1. Break Clay Apart: If the clay is hard, break it into smaller pieces. This increases the surface area, helping the water penetrate more easily. If you can break it into smaller pieces, that's even better.
2. Add Water: Place the dried clay pieces into a zip-lock bag. Add a small amount of water to the bag. You don't want to drown the clay, just provide enough moisture for it to absorb.
3. Seal and Wait: Seal up your bag and leave it for two days. This waiting period is crucial as it gives the clay time to soften as it absorbs the water.
4. Knead: Once this time has passed, you should be able to knead your clay until it becomes smooth again. You might need to knead it for several minutes to distribute the moisture evenly and regain a consistent texture.

Tips for Reviving Clay

• Start with a small amount of water; you can always add more if needed. Adding too much initially can make the clay too sticky or even dissolve it depending on the type.
• Kneading is essential for a smooth consistency after rehydration.
• This method is most effective for clay that is partially dried out or dry but still somewhat pliable or easily breakable. Fully hardened, cured clay cannot typically be revived this way.

By following these storage methods and knowing how to revive it if it dries, you can make the most of your air dry clay supplies.