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I am using Amaco Artists Modeling clay for the first time= actually first time using three dimensions.?

• I am using Amaco Artists Modeling clay for the first time= actually first time using three dimentions. There is an art consultant interested in my Day of the Dead sketches and wants some sculptures. I am molding the basic skull shape over styrofoam (elementary, I know, but I want to keep the weight as light as possible). When I woke this morning I was very dismayed to find several cracks developed overnight. They look really cool, considering subject matter, however I am very fearful of it falling apart. I read some that the clay will shrink when it dries, Any suggestions on an alternate method? I need something to hold the shape under the clay, and I am unemployed so VERY short of funds (why I got the cheapest materials I could find), Please help me, this is the first serious interest in my work, the consultant for the gallery approached me, and it is a very prestigious gallery in St. Augustine...I need to figure this out very quick.

• Answer:

  You are right about clay shrinking One way is start over Wrap plastic wrap or paper around the foam - The goal is to be able to easily remove it from the foam Apply the clay then wait for the clay to dry slightly - as the clay dries it stiffens up Cut the clay to remove Glue back together with slip To make slip take some clay scraps - dried up bits work well and make a thin past with water ( The piece that cracked could be used ) Rough up both pieces that are to be joined Apply slip to both Press together and work till joined Clay cracks if it is an uneven thickness or dries too fast. To slow drying loosely wrap in plastic wrap - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Second issue Air dry clay is not very durable I am not sure if the gallery will accept this medium Amaco clay may be able to be bisque fired - talk to a local pottery studio - Take the package with you and expect to be charged if they are willing to do it for a non-student http://www.amaco.com/shop/product-339-air-dry-modeling-clays.html To make pieces hard and permanent, bisque fire in a kiln to Cone 04 (1971°F, 1077°C) before decorating ( The website mentions sealing if you do not bisque fire) Polymer clay is baked in an oven you would form the piece over crumpled aluminum foil The foil becomes part of the piece Polymer clay is more expensive per pound Paper machee may be another material