Larry
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Real clay is a natural substance composed of packed, finely ground minerals and water, kind of like a type of dirt. Therefore, you can’t make real clay. You have to find it and dig it out of the ground, or buy it from someone who has already done so. While real clay is the best medium to use for hand molding projects, several alternatives exist that can be made at home. For the most part, these types of clay are more akin to Play-doh and are made out of food products.
One of the best recipes for homemade modeling clay requires 4 cups white, bleached, all-purpose flour, 1 cup salt, and 1 1/2 cups water. Pour all the ingredients into a large bowl and mix with a wooden spoon. Once the clay is partially mixed, you can continue kneading it by hand. Stop when you feel it cannot be mixed any further. If you are not planning on using it immediately, it should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This type of homemade clay is great because it can be baked at 350 degrees F for one hour to harden it.
Another type of homemade clay can be made with 3 ½ cups white, unbleached, all-purpose flour, ½ cut salt, 1 tbsp cream of tartar, 2 ½ tbsp vegetable oil, and 2 cups water. It has a smooth consistency and is fun to work with. To make this clay, boil the water, and add the oil. Combine the dry ingredients in a bowl and slowly mix in the water. Allow it to cool and then knead the clay until it is fully mixed. A couple drops of food coloring can be added to either recipe if you want something other than white.
 Posted 5405 day ago
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