http://www.mahoodsculpture.com/animal-sculptures-for-the-garden/
What type of clay should i use?
I’d like to try to make little clay animal sculptures/figurines about 1-2 inches high that will last and not fall apart and crumble over time or break too easily. I do not have access to a kiln and I’ve been researching different types of clays but i wanted some opinions of the best kinds to use from people who actually work with these materials. If i get any good i may want to try selling these down the road so i want a product that will last. I also plan to paint them with acrylics and use a sealer.
-Any tips or suggestions on paper clay or air dry clay
-tips on polymer clay (safe in my home oven?)
- would any certain type of acrylic sealer or varnish help in making the sculptures harder or more durable? any suggestions for making these items waterproof to use as a decorative stake in a garden or potted plant?
do i need a clay that has to be used in a kiln if i make anything that needs to be waterproof?
any information is appreciated! Thanks
There are pros and cons to different types of clay that can be fired at home or not. Here are some of your options:
–Ceramic clay, fired in a kiln, is durable and waterproof. You can find local classes or places to fire your work for a price. You can use brilliant underglaze colors, especially on low-fire, and glaze to give a glossy finish. Or if you have access to a high-fire gas kiln, then you can glaze with more earthy tones. These will be of a quality to sell.
–Paper clay is usually fired in a kiln. Paper or fiber is added to the clay to make if strong when making delicate pieces. After firing the paper is burned out and it is not quite as strong as ceramic clay without the paper/fiber additions.
–Polymer clay is very suitable for your project. There are many choices of colors, it can be glazed or have metallic leaves added, and it can be fired at home. It is not suitable for functional ware that you eat or drink from. Most people will dedicate a toaster oven for firing the work since there are toxic fumes during firing. Do not use utensils for food after using them for polymer clay. The clay can be a bit pricey. Below are some links for picking a type of polymer clay within the Sculpey brand. They have different characteristics depending on what you want. There are many tutorials on Youtube to give you help and ideas.
–Air dry clay is not permanent. You don’t have to fire it. It can be painted with acrylic paint, but it must be sealed with a commercial sealant to be waterproof. Even then I don’t think I would put it in a garden.
–Modeling clay or plasticine is an oil based clay that never dries. It is great for trying out new ideas because you can rework it with out it drying up as you go. It would not be good for your project, but you could use it to experiment with different forms before you try it in another clay.
There are many new products and sometimes the lines get blurred. Some air dry clays can also be fired.
Polymer clay is probably a place to start. You can do it at home, try out different types of polymer clay, tools are not really expensive, and even things in your kitchen can be used to sculpt.
On my downloads page, check out the document called “Clay Tools.” Even though this list is geared towards ceramic clay, many of these items on the list can be used for polymer clay and you can find them at home. Also check out my links page for different suppliers and info.
Have fun and good luck.
Visiting the Loveland Sculpture Shows – Kevin Caron