(b.) Needle tools are used to cut through clay. A good substitute is a nail.
(c.) Scoring tools have jagged edges that dig into the clay to make a toothy surface This tool is used to rough up two pieces of clay before they are joined together. You can cut a plastic credit or store card with a scissors to create jagged edges like the scoring tool. Some ribs have this type of edge. (d.) Ribs (called ribs or kidneys because of their unique shape) are used to shape and smooth clay walls. They come in metal, rubber, and wood. The curved edge works well for curved walls while the straight edge works well for straight walls. A good substitute is to cut a plastic credit or store card to the desired shape.
A rolling pin is used to roll a clay slab. Wooden rolling pins are best. Substitute a wide wooden dowel or plasitc pipe cut to about 18 inches long.
A metal ruler is used to cut a straight edge into a clay slab. You could substitute a wooden board that has a straight edge.
A wire tool is used to cut a slice of clay from a large block of clay. This simple tool can be made by hand using flexible framing wire cut to 24 inches and secured to two small dowels about 3 inches long or other objects that can be easily grasped such as metal washers.
A wooden paddle alters the shape of a form when you tap it against the clay surface. You can smooth edges or a seam with it. The back of a flat wooden spoon works as a substitute.
Canvas Cloth covers the work surface. Clay will not stick to the canvas like it sticks to smooth surfaces. You can purchase canvas at a fabric store or or art supply store. You can use a canvas painter’s cloth found at building supply stores. If you work in clay often, it may be easiest to staple the canvas onto a wooden surface and set that surface on a counterheight table. You can also tape the canvas to a table surface using masking tape.
Safety
When using air-dry clay in the home environment, some precautions should be taken. Avoid sloppy habits that create dust. Clay dust should not be inhaled. Clean up clay pieces and trimmings while they are still wet. Clean all smooth surfaces with a wet sponge. Use a damp mop to clean dry dust from the floor. Sweeping it will cause dust to go into the air. Shake out a canvas cloth surface into a trash can while pieces are still wet. If working on newspaper, simply roll it up to dispose of crumbs and dust particles. Never sand the clay, but smooth or trim surfaces while in a wet or semi-wet state (also called leather- hard). Wash hands with soap and water after using clay. Do not eat food while using clay, to avoid ingesting clay dust.
Basic Instructions
The correct moisture content in clay is crucial to being able to handle it well. The clay should be the right consistency when you purchase it. Air-dry clay must be wrapped in plastic to keep the proper moisture content. Cut off a piece in the size needed and return any unused clay to the plastic bag immediately. Twist the bag tightly to close and use a wire tie to secure the bag. Hard scraps of air dry clay must be thrown away because of the acrylic additive. Leather-hard is the condition of clay when it has been partially dried to the point where all shrinkage has been completed. It is still visibly wet, but has a tough feel. At this time a clay tool can be used to scratch in details and take away portions of the clay.
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