In the world of construction and crafts, clay is a material that is often used. However, there are two types of clay that are often confused: polymer clay and airdry clay. In this article, we will understand the difference between polymer clay and airdry clay how each can be used in your projects.
What is polymer clay?
Polymer clay is a type of artificial clay made from a mixture of clay powder and plastic materials. The manufacturing process involves heating this mixture until it becomes hard. The result is a material that is more flexible, malleable, and water-resistant once it dries. Polymer clay is often used in arts and crafts to make a variety of objects such as jewelry, small figurines, and toys because of its ability to hold shape well. It is a very popular material among artists and craftspeople because of its ability to create detailed and long-lasting works of art.
While air dry clay is
Airdry clay is a type of clay that dries naturally without the need for additional heating. This clay will harden if left open for some time after it has been shaped. Airdry clay does not contain plastic materials like polymer clay, so it tends to be more brittle when dry. Despite this, airdry clay can still be used in a variety of craft and art projects that do not require high strength. It is often used to make crafts such as flower pots, ornaments, and other decorative projects. The main advantage of airdry clay is its ease of use without the need for additional heating.
Some Difference Between Polymer Clay and Airdry Clay
In the world of arts and crafts, as well as in various creative projects, clay is often used as a basic material. However, there are two types of clay that are often confused: polymer clay and airdry clay. Let’s explore the difference between polymer clay and airdry clay.
1.Composition
The first difference between polymer clay and airdry clay can be seen from their composition
Polymer Clay: Polymer clay is made from a mixture of clay powder and plastic. The manufacturing process involves heating to dry it. This provides advantages in terms of softness and ease of shaping.
Airdry Clay: On the other hand, airdry clay is clay that dries out naturally if left uncovered for some time. Without plastic content, this clay tends to be more brittle when dry.
2.Strength
Strength is one of the important aspects that difference between polymer clay and airdry clay. This difference between polymer clay and airdry clay in strength affects various aspects of their use in various projects.
Polymer Clay: Polymer clay is known to have better strength compared to airdry clay. This is due to the mixture of plastic materials in its composition, which provides extra durability. Polymer clay’s ability to hold shape well makes it an ideal choice for projects that require high stability and detail.
Airdry Clay: On the other hand, airdry clay does not have the same level of strength as polymer clay. Because it contains no plastic ingredients and dries naturally, airdry clay tends to be more brittle when dry. However, this does not mean that airdry clay has no uses at all. Airdry clay can still be used in a variety of projects, especially those requiring lower strengths. It’s a good choice for crafts, decoration, or projects with a focus on aesthetics rather than stability.
3.Usage
The difference between polymer clay and airdry clay can be seen from their use
Polymer Clay: Polymer clay is often used by artists and craftspeople because of its ability to maintain good shape. It is also often used in making jewelry and toys.
Airdry Clay: Airdry clay is suitable for projects that do not require a fast drying time. For example, making flower pots or handicrafts in larger sizes.
4.Color
Polymer Clay: Polymer clay comes in a variety of different colors. This allows the artist to mix these colors to create the desired effect in his work.
Airdry Clay: Airdry clay is usually available in white or gray. You can color it after it dries according to your needs.
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