Air dry clay, also known as modeling clay, is a popular choice for crafters and artists. It’s an easy to use clay that dries naturally at room temperature. Air dry clay is lightweight, easy to shape, and economical. Many crafters like to paint their finished air dry clay creations to add color and details. But can you use watercolors to paint air dry clay? Let’s take a look at using watercolors with air dry clay.
What is Air Dry Clay?
Air dry clay, or modeling clay, is made from a ceramic powder mix combined with a water-based adhesive and coloring. It’s an inexpensive modeling clay that air dries to a hard, durable finish at room temperature. The drying time depends on factors like the thickness of the clay and humidity. On average, it takes 1-3 days for air dry clay creations to fully cure.
Some popular brands of air dry clay include:
- Crayola Model Magic
- Activ-Clay
- Hearty Clay
- Modello
Air dry clay is available in white and colors like gray, terracotta, and black. It’s lightweight and easy to shape by hand without needing special tools or equipment. Crafters sculpt miniatures, jewelry, figurines, bowls, frames, and more with air dry clay.
Can Air Dry Clay be Painted?
Yes, air dry clay can be painted once fully cured. Acrylic craft paint is the most commonly used paint for coloring air dry clay. Acrylic paint adheres well to the clay’s surface and offers bold, vibrant colors. Craft acrylic paints are available in just about any color imaginable, allowing for lots of creativity when painting air dry clay pieces.
In addition to acrylics, air dry clay can also be painted with:
- Acrylic paint pens – allow painting fine details
- Brush tip markers
- Fabric paint
- Chalky finish paint – gives a matte look
- Metallic paint
- Glitter paint
- Gloss enamels
Most paints will work on cured air dry clay if applied properly. The clay surface should be clean and free of oils before painting for the best adhesion.
Can You Use Watercolor?
Watercolor paint is an option for painting air dry clay, but does have some limitations. Here are the pros and cons of using watercolors on clay:
Pros:
- Watercolors can create soft, blended effects on clay.
- The paint remains permanent when dry.
- Allows for translucent coloring.
- Many watercolor techniques like washes and layering can be used.
Cons:
- Watercolors are more transparent on clay compared to paper.
- Can require multiple layers to get bold coloring.
- Not as opaque as heavier body acrylic paint.
- Requires sealing for longevity.
Watercolors work best for lightly tinting clay or adding soft accents of color. Getting bold pigments takes some work. The clay surface repels more water than paper does. This makes it harder for the paint to grip and leads to muted or faded looking results.
How to Paint Air Dry Clay with Watercolors
If you want to use watercolors on your clay projects, follow these tips for best results:
1. Seal the Clay First
Air dry clay is porous, so the first step is applying a sealant. This gives the watercolor paint something to adhere to. Acrylic paint works well as a sealer. Apply a thin layer over the entire clay surface and let it dry fully. Clear acrylic spray sealants are another quick option for sealing the clay before painting.
2. Use Heavy Body Paints
Thicker, heavy body watercolor paints work better than the standard thin varieties. Their thicker consistency makes it easier to control the paint and get it to stick to the clay surface. Some good options are:
- Holbein Heavy Body Acryla Gouache
- Daler-Rowney Aquafine Watercolor
- Winsor & Newton Professional Watercolour
3. Don’t Water Down the Paint
Watering down the watercolor paint makes it harder for it to adhere properly on clay. Use it straight from the tube or pan. The heavy body paints have a paste-like texture perfect for clinging to the clay.
4. Load the Brush Well
Don’t be stingy with paint amount on your brush. Air dry clay requires more paint for coverage compared to paper. Fully load your brush and apply it to the clay in thick layers.
5. Apply Multiple Layers
Unlike paper, a single coat of watercolor won’t get you the desired color intensity on clay. Build up the hues with several layers, allowing each to dry in between. The colors darken and become richer with each added layer.
6. Watch for Beading
If you notice the paint beading up and not adhering smoothly, the clay likely wasn’t sealed properly. The paint needs something to bind to. Stop painting and apply another layer of acrylic sealer before continuing.
7. Seal again after Painting
Once the paint is dry, seal the clay piece one more time. This locks in the watercolor paint and protects the finish.
Best Practices for Painting Air Dry Clay
In addition to the watercolor tips, follow these general best practices when painting any type of paint on cured air dry clay:
- Sand any rough spots on the clay smooth.
- Wipe away any dust with a dry cloth.
- Work in a well-ventilated area.
- Apply paint in thin, even coats.
- Let each coat dry fully before adding another.
- Start with lighter colors first, adding darker colors last.
- Consider adding a protective clear coat after painting.
Simple Watercolor Techniques on Clay
Here are a few easy watercolor techniques to try on air dry clay projects:
Washes
Dilute a small amount of paint in lots of water to create a thin wash. Use a large brush to apply overlapping layers. Washes work nicely for soft pastel backgrounds.
Dry Brushing
Use a dry brush loaded with concentrated paint to lightly brush color onto raised clay areas. This creates nice textured effects.
Sponging
Cut a craft sponge into random shapes. Dip into paint and dab onto the clay to make interesting designs.
Splattering
Load a stiff brush with paint. Run your finger along the bristles toward the clay to flick small dots of color onto the surface.
Resists
Draw designs on the clay with crayon or masking fluid. Paint over the entire surface with watercolor, let dry, then remove the resist material to reveal white outlines.
Alternative Painting Mediums
Because it can take some work to get watercolors vibrant on clay, you may want to explore using other paint mediums. Here are some top choices:
Acrylic Craft Paint
This all-purpose paint for crafters comes in every color imaginable. It adheres beautifully to cured clay. Use straight from the bottle or thin with a little water for a smoother look.
Acrylic Artist Paint
Heavier bodied professional acrylics offer superior coverage on clay. Brands like Liquitex or Golden will give you intense, long-lasting color.
Alcohol Ink
Alcohol based inks specifically designed for non-porous surfaces like glass, metal, and clay. They dry quickly and can be blended beautifully.
Chalk Paint
This thick, matte finish paint is formulated to adhere to slick surfaces like clay or glass without the need for sealing first. It gives great coverage in a flat, velvety look.
| Paint Type | Pros | Cons |
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| Acrylic craft paint |
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| Acrylic artist paint |
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| Alcohol ink |
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| Chalk paint |
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Final Tips
Painting air dry clay opens up many creative possibilities. Follow these final tips when painting clay projects:
- Take your time and apply paint in thin layers for a smooth finish.
- Mix paint colors on a palette instead of directly on the clay.
- Let each layer dry fully before adding the next to prevent muddying.
- Start light and build up to darker shades.
- Consider rubbing very fine sandpaper over dried paint to smooth any brush strokes.
- Work in a well-ventilated area and allow pieces to dry thoroughly before use.
- Spray varnish offers moisture protection and maximizes the durability and longevity of the painted finish.
Conclusion
Watercolor paint can be used to decorate air dry clay creations but requires some special considerations. Watercolor’s thinner consistency makes it more challenging to get vibrant colors and opacity on the clay surface. Heavy body watercolors designed for outdoor use or art techniques like acrylic washes work best. For quicker, more vivid results, acrylic craft paints or alcohol inks are better choices for most clay painting projects. With the right paint and proper prep, air dry clay makes a fun, inexpensive canvas to let your creativity shine!
