How Do You Soften Clay At Home?

Clay is an earthy material made from minerals and organic matter that holds its shape when wet, but becomes firm and hardens permanently when dried or fired. Potters and artists often work with clay to create sculptures, pottery, tiles, and more. However, clay straight from the package can be quite stiff and challenging to work with.

That’s why most clay artists take steps to soften the clay before beginning a project. Softer clay is much easier to shape and mold into delicate forms. There are many simple techniques to soften clay at home without any special equipment, which we’ll cover in this guide.

Get the Right Kind of Clay

When it comes to softening clay at home, it’s important to start with the right kind of clay. There are two main types of modeling clay – oil-based clay and water-based polymer clay.

Oil-based clays like plasticine are made from a petroleum base mixed with waxes and mineral oils. This makes the clay soft and pliable right out of the package, but it will dry out and harden over time. Oil-based clays are best for sculpting and modeling temporarily.

Water-based polymer clays, on the other hand, stay soft and workable even after they air dry. Popular brands like Sculpey and Fimo are PVC-based clays that will harden only when baked in an oven. Polymer clays are more durable for creating long-lasting sculptures and clay crafts.

For softening clay at home, it’s recommended to start with a water-based polymer clay. The clay already has a flexible texture that resists drying out. With the right techniques, polymer clays can be conditioned to an even softer, smoother consistency for easy sculpting and molding.

Use a Clay Softener

Clay softeners are specially formulated commercial products designed to make polymer clay softer and more malleable. They work by adding plasticizers to the clay, which help keep the clay flexible.

Some popular clay softener brands to try include:

• Sculpey Clay Softener – a liquid softener that can be kneaded directly into firmer clays.
• Fimo Softener – available as drops to mix into clay.
• Premo Clay Softener – a liquid softener from Sculpey.
• Cernit Clay Softener – comes in a gel format.

When using a commercial clay softener, start with only a small amount first like 5-10 drops per block of clay. Knead it in thoroughly until the clay reaches the desired softness. Be careful not to over-soften the clay or it may not hold its shape as well.

Knead the Clay

One of the easiest and most effective ways to soften clay at home is by kneading it with your hands. Kneading helps distribute moisture evenly throughout the clay and breaks up any stiff or stubborn areas. Here are some tips for proper clay kneading technique:

– Knead on a flat, clean surface lightly dusted with cornstarch or baby powder. This prevents the clay from sticking as you work it.

– Use the palms of your hands to push into the clay and roll it out, folding the clay over itself and pressing down as you go.

– Apply even, firm pressure as you knead – don’t be too aggressive or you may tear the clay.

– Knead in all directions to soften the entire lump. Give extra attention to thick or stiff sections.

– Take breaks every 5-10 minutes of kneading to allow moisture to spread through the clay.

Kneading clay helps blend the moisture evenly for a smooth, workable texture. It also aligns the clay particles in a way that makes the sculpture hold its shape better once formed. The motion of kneading releases locked air pockets that can cause cracking and breakage once baked. With sufficient kneading, even very firm clays will become soft, flexible, and ready for sculpting.

Use Plastic Wrap

Wrapping clay in plastic wrap is an easy and convenient way to soften it. The plastic wrap helps retain moisture in the clay. As the clay sits wrapped up, the moisture gently softens it from the inside out.

To use this method, take your hardened clay and form it into a ball or log shape. Wrap it thoroughly in plastic wrap so no areas are exposed. Make sure the plastic wrap is sealed tightly with no air gaps.

Let the wrapped clay sit for at least 24 hours to fully soften. For very stiff or dense clay, you may need to leave it wrapped for 48-72 hours. The waiting time allows the moisture to evenly distribute throughout the clay.

Once the allotted time has passed, unwrap the clay and knead it briefly by hand. It should now have a smooth, pliable texture, ready for sculpting or shaping.

Try the Microwave Method

The microwave can be used to quickly soften modeling clay if you need the clay softened right away. Here is how to soften clay in the microwave:

1. Start with clay straight from the package. Cut or break the clay into 1-inch chunks.

2. Place the clay pieces in a microwave-safe container. Do not cover.

3. Microwave the clay on high for 10 seconds at a time. After each 10 seconds, check and knead the clay. Repeat for 10 more seconds until pliable.

4. Knead the clay after microwaving to evenly distribute the heat. Be very careful, as the clay will be extremely hot right after microwaving.

5. If reheating clay that has been worked before, microwave for 5 seconds at a time. Pre-worked clay softens faster.

6. Stop microwaving as soon as the clay is pliable to avoid overheating. Overheated clay can scorch and become unusable.

The microwave method allows you to soften modeling clay very quickly. However, microwaving can overheat the clay if you are not careful. Work in short increments and knead thoroughly after heating to ensure even softening.

Use a Clay Roller

A clay roller is a simple but effective tool for softening clay. It’s a rod or rolling pin made specifically for conditioning clay. Using a roller is an easy hands-free way to soften clay.

Look for clay rollers made of wood, acrylic, or metal. Acrylic rollers are lightweight and easy to clean. Wood rollers are inexpensive but may absorb clay and require more cleaning. Metal rollers made of aluminum or stainless steel offer durability. Choose a roller at least 12 inches long for efficient clay conditioning.

To use a clay roller, start with a lump of firm clay. Flatten and shape the clay into a slab about 1/4-inch thick. Place the clay slab on a flat work surface. Roll back and forth over the clay, applying even pressure. Rotate and flip the clay slab periodically as you roll. The rolling action stretches, compresses, and softens the clay. Continue rolling until the clay is uniformly smooth, pliable, and has the desired softness. It typically takes 5-10 minutes of rolling to adequately soften clay. The end result is clay ready for sculpting, modeling, and craft projects requiring a soft consistency.

Try a Clay Conditioning Machine

Clay conditioning machines are specialty appliances designed to soften and condition clay. They consist of two counter-rotating drums that wedge and knead clay placed inside, working it until smooth and pliable.

Look for a tabletop size conditioner with stainless steel or cast aluminum drums. Popular models include AMACO Brent, North Star, and Kemper tools. Pick a machine with adjustable speed settings and enough torque to handle stiff clay.

To use a clay conditioner, break clay into fist-sized chunks, removing any hardened sections. Place pieces into the drums and turn on the machine at its lowest speed. Check clay every few minutes, and once smoothed, run for another 1-2 minutes to finish conditioning. Then remove the soft clay and wrap in plastic to maintain moisture.

Use Baby Oil or Olive Oil

Baby oil or olive oil can be very effective at softening clay. The oil penetrates into the clay particles, lubricating them and allowing them to slide past each other more easily. This makes the clay more malleable and flexible.

To use baby oil or olive oil, add a few drops at a time directly onto the clay and knead it in. Start with just 2-3 drops per ounce of clay. Knead vigorously to work the oil throughout the clay. Add another drop or two if needed. The clay should become smooth and soft, with no crumbling or cracking.

Too much oil can make the clay sticky, so add conservatively. Baby oil or olive oil provide moisture to condition the clay without over-softening it. The small amount needed makes this an easy, inexpensive clay softener you likely already have at home.

Troubleshooting Tips

When working with clay, you may run into some common issues that make sculpting difficult. Here are some tips for troubleshooting problems and keeping your clay soft:

• If your clay starts to dry out and crack while sculpting, try misting it with a spray bottle of water. The moisture will help prevent cracking.
• Knead a small amount of vegetable oil into dry spots to rehydrate the clay.
• Store unused clay in an airtight plastic bag or container to prevent it from drying out.
• If clay becomes too sticky, dust it lightly with corn starch or baby powder. This will make it easier to handle.
• Work in a cool area and keep your hands wet while sculpting to prevent the clay from drying out.
• Use clay softeners like liquid polymer clay or silicone oil to help condition and soften stubborn, dry clay.
• Avoid using too much pressure when sculpting, as this can lead to cracks. Be gentle and work slowly.

With some care and the right techniques, you can keep your clay soft, flexible, and crack-free for sculpting. Mist, knead, and condition the clay as needed to achieve the perfect consistency.