To effectively stick air-dry clay to wood, you need to prepare both surfaces and use the right adhesive. Here's a detailed guide:
Preparing the Wood
Before applying any clay, proper preparation of the wood surface is crucial for a strong bond.
- Sanding: An adult should begin by roughly sanding the area where the clay will be placed. This creates a more textured surface for better adhesion.
Adhering Air-Dry Clay
The method depends on whether the clay is wet or dry:
Attaching Dry Air-Dry Clay
- Drying First: Allow the air-dry clay piece to dry completely before attempting to stick it to the wood.
- Adhesive Application: Once the clay is thoroughly dry, apply a small amount of one of the following adhesives:
- White school glue
- Crazy Glue
- Gorilla Glue
Attaching Wet Air-Dry Clay
This approach is generally not recommended, as the clay can shrink and crack as it dries. However, if you choose this route:
- Score the Wood: Lightly score the wood where you want the clay to adhere, creating better texture for grip.
- Slight Pressure: Gently press the wet clay onto the scored wood.
- Allow Drying: Carefully allow both the clay and wood to dry simultaneously. Be aware there's a higher chance of cracking or separation.
- Glue Reinforcement: Once dried, consider adding a small amount of glue (as mentioned previously) at the edges to further secure the bond.
Summary Table: Sticking Clay to Wood
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Wood Preparation | Roughly sand the wood surface where the clay will be applied. |
| Clay Drying | Dry the air-dry clay completely. |
| Adhesive Choice | Use white school glue, Crazy Glue, or Gorilla Glue. |
| Adhesive Application | Apply a small amount of adhesive to either the wood or the dried clay. |
| Joining Surfaces | Press the dried clay piece firmly onto the prepared wood. |
| Drying/Curing | Allow the glue to fully cure as instructed by the adhesive's packaging. |
By following these steps you'll be able to stick clay effectively to wood.
