What Do You Do With Crayola Model Magic?

Crayola Model Magic is an air-drying modeling compound made by Crayola that allows kids and crafters to easily create 3D sculptures and shapes. First introduced in the late 1970s, Model Magic was designed to be lighter and cleaner than traditional modeling clay. It has a dough-like texture and air dries into a hard, lightweight foam material over the course of 1-3 days.

Unlike oil and polymer-based modeling clays, Model Magic does not leave any sticky residue on hands or require baking or firing to set. It also produces very little mess, making it ideal for classroom and home use. The non-toxic formula is safe for kids ages 3 and up.

Model Magic comes in a variety of colors and can be shaped, molded, cut, stamped, or rolled to create sculptures, figures, ornaments, jewelry, and more. It bonds to itself, allowing pieces to be connected and combined. Finished projects can be painted with acrylic paints and sealed to be more durable if needed. Model Magic is lightweight and easy to work with, while still being strong enough for detailed modeling work.

Using Model Magic for Arts and Crafts

One of the most popular uses for Crayola Model Magic is creating arts and crafts projects. The lightweight, pliable material is perfect for sculpting a wide variety of decorative items and figurines. Here are some ideas for using Model Magic for arts and crafts:

Making sculptures, figurines, ornaments – Model Magic is an ideal material for crafting sculptures, figurines, and ornaments. It’s easy to mold into detailed shapes like animals, characters, holiday decorations, etc. Kids can sculpt their own unique figurines to use as toys or displays. Adults can make more sophisticated sculptures for seasonal decorating or to display as collectibles. Let your imagination run wild!

Decorating boxes, frames, vases, etc. – Simpler Model Magic crafts include using the dough to decorate functional items. For example, you can add shapes, textures, or dimensional designs to plain boxes, frames, vases, candle holders, and more. This is an easy way to create one-of-a-kind decorative objects for your home.

Making magnets, pins, brooches – Roll or sculpt Model Magic into interesting shapes, then let dry fully and glue a magnet back or pin back. You can make customized magnets for the fridge or unique jewelry like pins and brooches. Make them holiday-themed or just for fun.

The lightweight, non-toxic, quick-drying material is endlessly versatile for all kinds of arts and crafts projects. Let your creativity run wild and make cherished decorative items for yourself or to give as heartfelt gifts.

Using Model Magic for Miniatures

Model Magic is perfect for creating miniature food items, desserts, furniture, appliances and more. The lightweight air-dry clay allows you to craft tiny realistic replicas that look just like the real thing.

Make miniature cakes, pies, donuts, sandwiches and other bite-sized foods out of Model Magic. Use toothpicks or sculpting tools to add details like frosting, chocolate drizzle or sesame seeds on buns. The clay holds its shape nicely for crafting tiny desserts and dishes. Let the creations dry fully before painting or adding other decorative elements.

Build small furniture like beds, couches, chairs and tables for dollhouses and room boxes. Appliances like stoves, refrigerators and sinks are fun to construct as well. Mold and shape Model Magic to form the furniture pieces, allow to dry and then paint the “wood” and details. The lightweight clay is easy to work with for crafting intricate miniatures.

Construct entire miniature rooms out of Model Magic for dollhouses and dioramas. Make bricks to build the walls, tiles for floors, wallpaper, doors and windows. Let your creations dry fully between each component to ensure stability. Dollhouse rooms made from Model Magic have an artsy, homemade look kids love.

Model Magic for Kids’ Projects

Model Magic is an ideal modeling material for kids of all ages. It has many benefits for developing children’s creativity and fine motor skills. The soft, lightweight texture makes it easy for little hands to shape and mold. With adult supervision, even toddlers can enjoy squeezing and rolling Model Magic. Older kids can create more intricate designs and detailed sculptures.

Model Magic is commonly used to make small animals, letters of the alphabet, numbers, and other familiar shapes. Themed projects tied into stories, holidays, or classroom lessons allow kids to bring their favorite characters and subjects to life in 3D. Making their own creations also helps reinforce learning, for example by practicing writing letters and numbers.

Teachers often use Model Magic in the classroom for various art projects and activities. It engages students as they sculpt the material into unique forms. Model Magic provides a fun tactile experience and is less messy than many other modeling mediums. Art projects with Model Magic can be as simple or complex as needed for the students’ age and skill level.

With adult assistance, even very young kids can work with Model Magic to stimulate their senses and motor development. Open-ended creative play with Model Magic encourages children to use their imagination to design anything they can dream up. From basic shapes to elaborate scenes, Model Magic unleashes kids’ creativity.

Tips for Working with Model Magic

Model Magic is an air-dry clay that begins drying out the moment it’s exposed to air. To get the most use out of a package, follow these tips:

Proper storage is key for preserving Model Magic and limiting drying. After use, tightly seal any unused portion by removing excess air and sealing the bag right away. For longer storage, place the sealed package in an airtight plastic container or bag. Refrigerating Model Magic can extend its shelf life, but avoid freezing it.

When working with Model Magic, keep unused portions sealed. Only open what you plan to immediately use. If the clay does start drying out, add a few drops of water and knead it to restore moisture and pliability.

Model Magic can be shaped by hand, rolled out, stamped, imprinted, cut, etc. Simple kid-safe tools like rolling pins, butter knives, cookie cutters, and plastic utensils work well. Avoid using sharp metal tools.

To join pieces, rub a small amount of water on the surfaces to be joined then press them together firmly. Let projects dry completely before painting or varnishing. Acrylic craft paints work well for painting Model Magic. For a smooth finish, dilute the paint slightly with water. Apply a protective sealer or varnish after the paint has fully dried.

Troubleshooting Model Magic

Model Magic is known for its versatility, but even this modeling material can run into problems at times. Here are some common issues and how to resolve them:

Cracking, drying out, or getting hard: If your Model Magic begins to dry out, crack, or get hard before you’ve completed your project, you can often fix the issue by kneading the material to make it pliable again. Or, you can blend in some new Model Magic to refresh it. Keep the modeling clay stored in an airtight container and avoid extreme temperatures to prevent drying.

Sticking to surfaces, getting dirty: To prevent sticking, avoid handling Model Magic too much. Instead, use a rolling pin or acrylic rod to shape it. If it gets dirty, you can wash it gently with mild soap and water as long as it hasn’t hardened. Let it air dry completely before using again.

Fixing mistakes: The best part about Model Magic is that it’s very forgiving. If you make a mistake, you can simply knead the material to soften it again and try reshaping that section. Or, cut away pieces and attach new Model Magic as needed. With a little creativity, almost any modeling mishap can be fixed.

Buying and Storing Model Magic

Model Magic is available for purchase in most major craft supply stores, including Michaels, JoAnn Fabrics, Hobby Lobby, and AC Moore. It’s usually located in the modeling clay or kids’ crafts section of the store. Model Magic also can be purchased online through retailers like Amazon and Blick Art Materials.

Model Magic comes in a variety of different size containers and sets. Individual containers typically range from 2 ounces to 1 pound. There are also variety packs available with an assortment of colors. Kits tailored for certain projects, like animal or seasonal shapes, can also be found.

Proper storage is important to keep Model Magic soft and pliable for multiple uses. Make sure to tightly seal containers after each use. Store Model Magic in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight. Refrigeration can extend the shelf life, but is not required. With proper storage, Model Magic typically lasts for several months after opening.

Safety Precautions

Although Crayola advertises Model Magic as a non-toxic product, some safety precautions should still be taken when using it.

Model Magic is safe to handle, but the dust from sanding pieces or particles getting into eyes can cause irritation. It’s recommended to work in a well-ventilated area and avoid rubbing your eyes while crafting. For kids using Model Magic, adult supervision is advised.

Some users report respiratory or skin irritations from Model Magic, especially those with asthma, allergies, or sensitive skin. Though it’s non-toxic, inhaling dust or particles should be avoided. Wearing a dust mask while sanding Model Magic pieces can help.

Test a small amount of Model Magic on skin first to check for any allergic reactions before doing larger projects. Discontinue use if any redness, itching, or other irritation occurs. For children with asthma or allergies, discuss with a doctor before use.

By taking basic safety precautions, Model Magic can be enjoyed without incident. Supervise children, work in a clean space, and avoid inhaling dust particles. Consider potential allergies before starting a Model Magic project.

Comparison to Other Modeling Materials

Model Magic has some distinct advantages and disadvantages compared to other popular modeling materials like polymer clay, plastics, natural clay, and play dough.

Polymer Clay

Polymer clay is made from PVC resin and comes in a variety of colors. It generally holds fine detail better than Model Magic. Polymer clay needs to be baked to harden it, whereas Model Magic air dries. Polymer clay is reusable if kept wrapped, while Model Magic will dry out if not sealed properly. However, polymer clay can release toxic fumes when baked and is not recommended for young kids.

Plastics

Plastics like Sculpey can be easily molded and shaped. Many types of plastics are lightweight yet strong when hardened. Plastics allow for very smooth surfaces. However, some plastics require toxic solvents to bond pieces together. High quality plastics can also be more expensive than Model Magic.

Natural Clay

Clays like potter’s clay have properties that work well for sculpting and throwing on a wheel, providing good workability. Natural clay needs to be fired in a very hot kiln to permanently harden and strengthen it. Without firing, natural clay sculptures will not hold their shape. Model Magic does not require kiln firing and will harden at room temperature.

Play Dough

Play dough is similar to Model Magic in its easy moldability directly in the hands. However, play dough hardens through drying and becomes unusable over time. It also sticks to surfaces and can leave residues. Model Magic has a smooth, non-sticky texture and does not dry out when stored in an airtight container.

Creative Model Magic Project Ideas

Model Magic is an incredibly versatile material that makes it easy to create unique arts and crafts. Get creative with your Model Magic and try making some fun themed projects.

For seasonal crafts, Model Magic is perfect for making ornaments, garlands, and other decorations for holidays like Christmas, Halloween, and Easter. Sculpt miniature pumpkins, ghosts, snowmen, Easter eggs, Christmas trees, and more. Add glitter, sequins, and other embellishments to make them extra festive.

Jewelry and accessories like magnets, pins, and earrings are also easy to fashion out of Model Magic. Make flower charms, animal pendants, and focal bead dangles. Let the kids make their own customized jewelry pieces as gifts for friends and family.

Bring favorite characters and creatures to life in 3D by sculpting them out of Model Magic. Mold the material into whimsical dinosaurs, cute kittens, sweet dolphins, powerful superheroes, enchanting fairies, and anything else you can imagine. The modeling compound holds fine detail nicely.

For a delicious looking project, sculpt miniature cakes, donuts, ice cream cones, pizza, and other yummy treats out of Model Magic. Kids can create a candy jewelry box or a whole playset of tiny polymer clay foods. These faux food items will never go bad!