Every Holiday with Evelyn Guide
Working with Clay
Air-dry clay vs. Model Magic, cracking, painting, sealing and all the weird little things we've learned while adding details to nutcrackers and blow molds. 😂
Quick Shop
The clay options mentioned throughout this guide, all in one spot because nobody wants to open 47 tabs. 😂
Air-Dry Clay
Great for sculpting firmer details and pieces that dry to a harder finish.
Model Magic
Lightweight, softer and more flexible once dry—one of my favorite options for fun blow mold details.
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Okay... Which One Should I Use?
The short answer? It depends on what you're making. Here's the very non-scientific Evelyn version. 😂
Try Air-Dry Clay If...
- You want a firmer finished piece
- You're sculpting more structured details
- You don't mind sanding or repairing cracks if needed
- You want something that feels more like traditional clay
Try Model Magic If...
- You want something lightweight
- You prefer a softer, more flexible finish
- You're worried about cracking
- You're making fun decorative details or embellishments
Clay FAQ
🧱 Air-Dry Clay
💭 Why is my clay cracking?
Cracks usually happen when clay dries too quickly. Let it dry slowly by loosely covering it with plastic wrap or a bag. Some people even lightly mist it during the first day or two.
🧊 Can it handle temperature changes?
Not particularly well. Air-dry clay can be sensitive to both heat and cold. Store finished pieces in a cool, dry place when possible and avoid garages or attics with extreme temperature swings.
🧵 It cracked anyway... now what?
Don't panic. 😂 Fill the crack with spackle or lightweight joint compound, allow it to dry, smooth the repair as needed and repaint.
🖌️ Should I seal it?
Yes—especially if the project will be displayed outdoors. Choose a clear sealer that's appropriate for the materials and finish you're using, and always follow the product directions.
Clay FAQ
🧸 Model Magic
💭 Does Model Magic crack too?
It can, but it tends to be less prone to cracking than traditional air-dry clay. Because it dries softer and more flexible, it's generally a little more forgiving. Very thin pieces or drying conditions can still affect the final result.
🌡️ Is it sensitive to heat or cold?
It's generally more forgiving, but extreme temperatures and humidity can still affect the finished piece. When possible, store your project somewhere dry and climate-stable.
🖌️ Can I paint it?
Yes! Once dry, Model Magic can be painted with acrylic paint. Let your piece dry before painting and use thin coats for the cleanest finish.
🛑 Do I need to seal it?
Not always, but sealing can add protection if the finished piece will be handled frequently or displayed outdoors. Test your exact sealer first because clear coats can change the look of paint and specialty finishes.
🧵 Can I fix cracks in Model Magic?
If needed, you can repair small problem areas similarly to air-dry clay. But one of the nice things about Model Magic is that you can often smooth and adjust it before it completely dries.
📌 Evelyn's Tip
It sticks surprisingly well to blow molds.
Group members have had great results adding clay details to blow molds. Starting with a clean surface is important, and lightly scuffing or priming the plastic first may help depending on the material and product you're using.
Your Clay Cracked. Don't Throw It Across the Room. 😂
Most cracks don't mean your project is ruined. Let the piece finish drying before you start piling more products onto the problem area, then repair the damaged spot.
Did Yours Do Something Weird? 😂
Come show us! Our nutcracker and blow mold community is full of creative people who have painted, sculpted, glued, glittered and probably panic-repaired the exact same thing.