Clay is a sedimentary rock that, depending on its composition, is used for many purposes, from construction to cosmetology. Due to its plasticity and the possibility of further processing, this material is excellent for sculpting dishes, crafts and other items. Moreover, getting it now is not a problem.
Instructions
Step 1
Buy clay from the store. This is the easiest and most affordable way to get this material. It is usually sold in the clerical department or in stores that specialize in selling DIY products. Regular gray clay has a smooth and resilient texture, perfect for those new to sculpting.
Step 2
For those who are already good at sculpting, you can purchase blue clay. It is sold most often in the form of a powder, packed in large bags of several kilograms. Before using it, it must be sieved through a fine sieve to clear it of the pebbles it contains. And then dilute with water according to the instructions written on the package.
Step 3
Use natural clay. You can find it on the banks of a river, a reservoir or in a ravine. True, not all natural clay is suitable for modeling, but only one that has good elasticity and does not form cracks after drying. To determine this, remember the clay in your hand, make a cake out of it and put it in the sun or in a warm place until it dries completely. If after that the clay remains even and smooth, you can try to use it in sculpting products. True, for beginners and children it is better to comprehend modeling with the help of polymer clay.
Step 4
Before using natural material, prepare it for work. Such clay often contains small stones, twigs and other soil types, which makes it unsuitable for modeling. First, spread the clay in an even thin layer on a cloth or board and dry it outdoors, in an oven or on a radiator. Fold the dry material into a tarpaulin bag and break to a powder. Then sift the clay powder through a fine sieve to separate rocks and chips from it.
Step 5
Pour some of the powder into a bucket so that it takes up one third of the container. And then pour warm water to the edges of the bucket. Stir thoroughly until smooth and let sit for 1 day. After this time, carefully scoop up the liquid clay, being careful not to catch settled debris and heavy rocks.
Step 6
Place the clay mass in a plaster dish or on several layers of a cloth that absorbs water well. After the drying clay stops sticking to your hands, but at the same time remains plastic, it is ready for modeling.
