When it comes to sculpting and design, the clay that you use is literally the make-or-break point in your work. Two of the most popular clays, polymer clay and air clay, each possess their characteristics, benefits, and optimal application.
While both are multi-purpose and favored by hobbyists and artists alike, both have varying applications, and each is best suited for a particular skill set and requirement. Ideally, all the clays possess their pros and cons, and usage of one against the other typically depends on the type of project, individual preference, and finish desired.
You’ll need to understand their differences so that you can properly meet your intended goal in your project.
To help you decide which is best for your needs, this guide will break down six key differences between air-dry and polymer clay, along with their best uses.
Drying and Curing Process
There is one main difference between polymer clay and air dry clay, and that is how they dry and cure. As the name suggests, air dry clay naturally hardens when exposed to the atmosphere, making it a convenient choice for those without access to an oven or kiln.
Drying time varies depending on the thickness of the project and environmental conditions, ranging from 24 hours to several days. However, the slow drying process allows for strong, durable creations that can be easily painted, varnished, or decorated once fully cured.
However, Polymer clay is oven-cured. This is done at a low temperature for 15-30 minutes for the clay to set and retain shape. While this does give more control during the curing process, this does mean that it does need the use of an oven, which is, in turn, sometimes less readily available for all people.
Strength and Resilience
In terms of durability, polymer clay is firmer. When baked, it is doubtful to crack and is far less likely to break, so it lends itself well to items that will be used, like jewelry, figurines, or functional items. The fact that it is artificial also means that it is less likely to crack over time.
In contrast, the air clay is weaker, especially when it is in contact with water or is overly handled. While it can be painted with acrylics or varnished to make it stronger, it is likely less than optimal for use in pieces that need to be durable and withstand wear and tear.
Workability and Texture
Even the texture and workability of these clays also differ significantly. Air-dry clay is soft, pliable, and easy to work with and manipulate, so much so that it is most suited for beginners or big projects. It dries rapidly if left outside and must be moist while being worked with.
On the other hand, Polymer clay is a stiffer clay that must be conditioned (kneaded) to soften and become malleable. It is a bit more work, but it supports more precision and detail, so experienced artists prefer it.
In addition, polymer clay does not dry out by itself, so more time is available to craft your design perfectly.
Completion and Aesthetic
The finish of your project differs based on the clay you’re working with. Air-dry clay usually has a matte finish but can be painted or varnished for different looks. It takes several coats of paint or varnish to get a glossy, smooth finish.
Despite that, Polymer clay is forgiving in terms of finish. It is possible to sand, polish, and buff it to produce a shiny, professional finish without applying any finish coatings. This is ideal for delicate design work or products that must be very detailed.
Cost and Accessibility
Budget is also something that should be taken into account when choosing between these two clays. Air-dry clay is more affordable and widely available, making it a cost-effective option for large projects and beginners. It is also more available in stores that carry crafts online and in bulk.
More expensive polymer clay is worth more since it is strong and can be molded in various colors and finishes, so less finishing material, such as paint or varnish, is required. However, that increased cost, although that in itself is undesirable for the price-conscious, could be justified in the long run.
Best Uses for Each Clay
Understanding the general application for which each clay is most suited can help you make a good decision. Air-dry clay is best suited for decorative items, sculpting, or children’s crafts if strength is less critical.
Easy to work with and inexpensive, it is a good choice for school crafts or DIY home decor. Polymer clay is tough and durable, excellent for functional items such as jewelry, buttons, or scale model miniatures.
Artists and craftspeople most appreciate it since it can hold very subtle detail and withstand use and manipulation.
Conclusion
Briefly, polymer and air clay have pros and cons that make them most suitable for various works. Air-dry clay is ideal for beginners or in cases that demand cheap, easy-to-handle clay, whereas polymer clay is stronger and pliable for more complex works.
With the awareness of these six general differences, you can choose the right clay for your subsequent work and derive the maximum from it.
