When you want to create art from clay, you’ll be faced with two main options: polymer clay and airdry clay. Both types of clay have their own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice depends on your project, creativity, and personal preferences. This article will discuss the differences between polymer and airdry so you can choose what suits your needs.
1. Drying Capability
- Polymer Clay: As the name suggests, polymer clay requires heating to harden. This can be done with a home oven or an oven designed specifically for curing polymer clay. You have control over the drying process and can create long-lasting art. The use of an oven allows you to produce stronger and more durable artwork.
- Airdry Clay: Airdry clay hardens when exposed to air and requires time to dry. This can be an advantage because you don’t need additional equipment, but it can also be a disadvantage if you want a quicker process. The drying process, depending on the air’s conditions, can also affect the final result as temperature and humidity may vary.
2. Drawing and Painting Capabilities
- Polymer Clay: Polymer clay allows you to easily blend colors and create fine details. You can use acrylic paint after drying. This gives you great flexibility to create artwork with intricate details and an appealing look.
- Airdry Clay: Airdry clay is more challenging to draw or paint, and you need to paint it before it dries. The colors tend to be softer, and it’s difficult to create very fine details. However, airdry clay can also provide a unique and organic touch to your artwork.
3. Strength and Durability Polymer clay Vs Airdry Clay
- Polymer Clay: Polymer clay is very strong and durable after drying. This makes it suitable for projects that require durability, such as jewelry and miniatures. You can be confident that your artwork will last.
- Airdry Clay: Airdry is more fragile and susceptible to damage. It’s better suited for decorative projects that won’t be subjected to much pressure. You need to handle artwork made from airdry clay with care to prevent it from breaking.
4. Working Time
- Polymer Clay: Polymer clay doesn’t dry while you’re working with it, giving you plenty of time to craft your project. This is advantageous when creating intricate and multi-step artwork.
- Airdry Clay: Airdry can start to dry while you’re working with it, so you need to work quickly and may need to dampen it to maintain its moisture. This can be a challenge when trying to create detailed and time-consuming artwork.
5. Safety
- Polymer Clay: When used properly, polymer clay is safe. However, it’s important to follow usage instructions and avoid inhaling dust when cutting or sanding it. Ensure you always work in a well-ventilated area when using polymer clay.
- Airdry Clay: Airdry clay is generally safer and easier to use, especially for children. Since it doesn’t involve heating like polymer clay, the risks associated with heat and fumes are reduced.
6. Cost
- Polymer Clay: Polymer clay is typically more expensive than airdry clay, but the final result can be more durable and of higher quality. It can be a good investment if you want to create long-lasting artwork.
- Airdry Clay: Airdry clay is a more budget-friendly option and can be used for school projects or hobbies without breaking the bank. This makes it a great choice for beginners looking to try their hand at clay art without spending a lot.
In conclusion, the choice between polymer and airdry depends on your project and personal preferences. If you want a long-lasting result with full control over the drying process, polymer clay is a good choice. However, if you’re looking for ease of use, quicker working time, and lower cost, airdry clay may be more suitable. Most importantly, what matters is to create and express yourself through art, regardless of the type of clay you choose.
Clay Garden store is pleased to accept custom orders for crafting clay dolls according to your preferences!
