You can make air dry clay with glue using a simple recipe involving cornstarch, glue, oil, and lemon juice. This homemade modeling material air dries, making it suitable for various craft projects without needing a kiln.
Based on a recipe from the Clay Art Center, here is a method for creating air dry clay using glue:
Ingredients
To make this air dry clay, you will need:
- ½ cup of cornstarch
- 4 oz of glue (typically white school glue works well)
- 2 Tbs of oil (such as vegetable or mineral oil)
- 1 Tbs of lemon juice
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to create your air dry clay mixture:
- Combine Cornstarch and Glue: Begin by adding ½ cup of cornstarch to a bowl, followed by 4 oz of glue.
- Mix to a Smooth Consistency: Thoroughly mix the cornstarch and glue together until the mixture reaches a smooth, icing-like consistency. Ensure there are no lumps.
- Add Oil and Lemon Juice: Next, add 2 Tbs of oil and 1 Tbs of lemon juice to the mixture. Give it a quick mix to incorporate these liquid ingredients.
- Microwave in Stages: Place the bowl in the microwave for 30 seconds. Take it out, give it a quick mix, and then place it back in the microwave for another 30 seconds. This heating process helps to cook the mixture slightly and achieve the desired clay texture.
After the final microwave step, your air dry clay should be ready to cool down before handling and molding into your desired shapes. Always allow creations to dry completely in the air.
