Model Magic is a popular modeling compound used by artists and crafters for creating various projects. Unlike traditional clay, Model Magic is known for its lightweight and spongy texture, making it ideal for both educational and artistic applications.
However, one common challenge when working with Model Magic is its tendency to dry out if not stored properly. In this guide, we will explore how to keep model magic from drying out, thus extending its usability and preserving the quality of your creations.
The Problem of Model Magic Drying Out
One of the main issues faced by users of Model Magic is its susceptibility to drying out when exposed to air for prolonged periods. This is because the compound loses moisture, causing it to harden and become less malleable, hence negatively impacting its unique pliable properties.
In some cases, once dried, Model Magic may even crack or crumble, leading to the deterioration of the crafted objects’ intricate details. This drying effect can frustrate artists and hobbyists who require their materials to remain workable over extended sessions or need to store unfinished projects.
Therefore, understanding and mitigating the factors contributing to Model Magic drying out is crucial for maintaining its efficacy and ensuring long-term satisfaction in crafting endeavors.
What Causes Model Magic to Dry Out?
Model Magic dries out primarily due to the loss of moisture when exposed to air. Unlike clay, which often retains moisture for longer periods, Model Magic is formulated to air dry, which means it relies on ambient air to harden over time.
Factors that accelerate drying include exposure to warm, dry environments or direct sunlight, as these conditions increase the rate of evaporation. Additionally, if Model Magic is left uncovered or stored improperly without airtight sealing, it will naturally become harder and less flexible.
The inherent design of Model Magic to eventually become a solid form is why it is essential for crafters to take extra precautions to prevent premature drying and maintain the desired pliability until the project is complete.
10 Methods How to Keep Model Magic from Drying Out
1. Store in Airtight Containers
One of the simplest and most effective ways to keep Model Magic from drying out is by storing it in an airtight container. As the clay is air-dry, exposure to open air causes it to lose moisture and harden. After using your Model Magic, place any unused portions in a resealable plastic container or a zip-top bag.
Press as much air out of the bag as possible before sealing it to minimize air exposure. If you have larger amounts of Model Magic, you can also use food storage containers with tight-fitting lids to ensure the clay remains soft for your next project.
2. Use Plastic Wrap for Small Portions
If you’re working with smaller amounts of Model Magic and don’t want to store it in a bulky container, plastic wrap is a convenient option. Tear off a piece of plastic wrap and tightly wrap the clay, ensuring it is fully covered without any air gaps.
You can also double-wrap the clay for extra protection, or place the wrapped clay inside a zip-top bag for an additional layer of security. This method is especially helpful if you want to store individual colors separately or if you’re traveling with your clay and need a compact storage solution.
3. Moisture Lock with Damp Paper Towels
Another way to keep Model Magic from drying out is to introduce a small amount of moisture into its storage environment. One effective technique is to place a damp cloth or paper towel inside the storage container or zip-top bag with the clay.
Be sure that the towel is damp, not soaking wet, as too much moisture can cause the clay to become mushy. The damp towel will help maintain humidity inside the container, preventing the Model Magic from drying out and allowing you to use it over a longer period without losing its pliability.
4. Mist with Water
If your Model Magic has started to dry out but hasn’t completely hardened, you can restore its flexibility by lightly misting it with water. Fill a small spray bottle with water and spritz the surface of the clay. Use your hands to knead the water into the Model Magic, gradually adding more mist as needed until the clay becomes soft again.
Be cautious not to oversaturate the clay, as too much water can cause it to become sticky and difficult to work with. This method works best when the clay is only slightly dry and can be rehydrated with a gentle touch.
5. Use Reusable Silicone Storage Bags
For a more eco-friendly approach to keeping Model Magic fresh, consider using reusable silicone storage bags. These bags are airtight and durable, making them ideal for storing modeling clay. Because silicone bags can be tightly sealed without allowing air to enter, they help maintain the moisture content of Model Magic for longer periods.
Additionally, silicone is flexible, so it’s easy to press the air out of the bag before sealing it. Reusable silicone bags are also a great option if you want to reduce plastic waste and have a more sustainable crafting routine.
6. Use Model Magic Only When Needed
If you’re working on a large project with Model Magic, it’s important to only take out the amount of clay you’ll need for the immediate task. Leaving unused portions of the clay exposed to air can cause it to dry out quickly, even if you plan to use it within a few hours.
Instead, keep the bulk of your Model Magic stored in an airtight container or plastic wrap, and only work with small amounts at a time. This method not only preserves the freshness of the clay but also prevents you from wasting material that may dry out before you’re ready to use it.
7. Use Humidity-Controlled Storage
If you live in a particularly dry climate or want to go the extra mile in preserving your Model Magic, you can store it in a humidity-controlled environment. Special storage containers with built-in humidity control features can help maintain the ideal moisture levels for your clay.
These containers often come with humidity packs or desiccants that help regulate moisture, ensuring that the clay remains soft and workable. While this may be a more advanced solution, it’s particularly useful for professional artists or long-term storage needs where keeping the clay fresh is critical.
8. Recondition Dry Model Magic with Lotion
If your Model Magic has become too dry and brittle to work with, you can try reconditioning it with a small amount of lotion. Place the dried-out clay in a bowl or on a flat surface, and add a pea-sized amount of unscented hand lotion or moisturizer.
Knead the lotion into the clay, adding more as needed until the Model Magic becomes soft and pliable again. This method is especially useful if the clay has been left out for a while and has lost much of its original moisture. Be careful not to add too much lotion, as this can make the clay greasy or overly sticky.
9. Seal the Work in Progress
If you’re working on a larger sculpture or project that will take multiple days to complete, it’s essential to keep your work from drying out between sessions. To do this, wrap the partially completed piece in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container between uses.
This will prevent the outer layers from hardening before the project is finished. For even better results, you can mist the surface of the sculpture with water before wrapping it in plastic, which will keep the clay moist for longer. This method is particularly useful for intricate projects that require several stages of construction.
10. Avoid Direct Sunlight and Heat
Model Magic tends to dry out more quickly when exposed to direct sunlight or heat. To extend the life of your clay, be mindful of where you store and use it. Avoid leaving Model Magic near windows, heaters, or other sources of heat that can cause it to lose moisture faster.
If you’re working with the clay outdoors, make sure to keep it in a shaded area or under a cover to protect it from the sun. By keeping the clay in a cool, dry place, you’ll help maintain its moisture and flexibility, ensuring that it stays workable for longer periods.
Conclusion
Keeping Model Magic fresh and pliable requires a bit of attention and care, but with the right techniques, it can remain usable for extended periods. By storing it in airtight containers and maintaining a suitable level of humidity, you can ensure its durability.
Utilizing simple methods, such as misting with water or kneading in lotion, allows you to revive slightly dried-out clay. Additionally, avoiding exposure to sunlight and heat is crucial in maintaining the ideal texture. Thanks for reading, and we hope this has given you some inspiration on how to keep model magic from drying out!
