There are several effective methods for drying natural clay at home, depending on the clay type, the size and thickness of your piece, and the resources available. The key is to dry the clay slowly and evenly to prevent cracking and warping.
Air Drying: The Natural Approach
Air drying is the simplest and most common method.
- Even Exposure: Place your clay piece on a wire rack or a porous surface like wood. This allows air to circulate evenly around the piece.
- Slow Drying is Key: Cover the piece loosely with plastic wrap or a plastic bag. This creates a humid environment that slows down the drying process. Gradually increase ventilation by making small holes in the plastic over several days. This gradual drying prevents cracking.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight and Drafts: Keep the clay out of direct sunlight and away from drafts, as these can cause uneven drying and cracking.
- Turning: Rotate the piece regularly to ensure even drying on all sides.
Oven Drying: Speeding Up the Process (With Caution)
A conventional oven can expedite the drying process, but requires careful monitoring to avoid cracking.
- Low Temperature is Essential: Place your bone-dry clay piece in a cold oven. Set the temperature to a very low setting, ideally around 170-200°F (77-93°C). Never place wet clay in a hot oven.
- Gradual Heat Up: Allow the oven to heat up slowly with the clay inside. This helps to gently remove moisture.
- Monitor Closely: Check the clay frequently for signs of cracking. If cracking occurs, turn off the oven and let the clay cool down slowly inside.
- Prolonged Drying: Depending on the size and thickness of the clay piece, it can take several hours to completely dry in the oven.
- Important Note: The linked reference recommends pre-drying clay in the oven before firing without a kiln, but it's crucial to dry the clay thoroughly before firing, regardless of your firing method.
Dehumidifier: Removing Excess Moisture from the Air
Using a dehumidifier in the room where your clay is drying can help to remove excess moisture from the air, facilitating a more even and controlled drying process. This is particularly useful in humid climates.
Drying Times:
Drying times vary significantly based on factors like humidity, temperature, clay type, and the thickness of the piece. Small, thin pieces may dry in a few days, while larger, thicker pieces can take weeks.
Recognizing Bone-Dry Clay:
Clay is considered bone dry when it is completely dry to the touch, feels lighter, and no longer feels cool. It will also appear lighter in color than when it was wet. At this stage, the clay is ready to be bisque fired (if you have a kiln) or used for other purposes depending on the type of clay.
