Anyone know of an especially strong clay or ceramic with a low or even no firing point?

Question

Basically I'm undertaking a project where I need to make small figurines. I'm looking at clay but I know that most clays can't be too thin or they're too brittle. I also have limited resources so I need material that doesn't need to be fired or maybe could be fired in the oven. And while I'm at it, any paint types or brands you could suggest would be awesome. The majority of the figurines would be able to fit in about 1" x 1" x 2" of space.

Answer 1

I'm echoing what xyz said... polymer clay sounds like a good bet for you. A word of advice: Also invest in an oven thermometer. Home ovens, especially older ones, are notorious for being set at one temperature and actually putting out heat at another and/or fluctuating madly. Fimo Soft would be a good brand to start with, as it bakes up pretty firmly but isn't so stiff just out of the package, like original (aka 'Classic') Fimo can be.

Acrylic paint is very compatible with polymer clay. Liquitex is a good economical choice, and I have heard Golden is good also.

Another word on ovens: If you go with polymer clay and you find yourself using it a lot in the future, I'd recommend getting a toaster oven for your projects. Polyclay is funny in that it's touted as a nontoxic product, but there are many caveats toward not letting it or your tools for it come in contact with food (due to the plasticizers in it). I got my toaster oven at St. Vinny's for a buck and have been using it lo these ten-plus years.

Hope this mile-long email helps. If you have further questions, please feel free to drop a line... Good luck!

Answer 2

I've been a clay sculptor for a few years and there are a few NON fire brands, and they are stronger in the end than non fired ceramic clays, but still able to be broken or crumble. Some can also just be "cooked" in a regular oven.

Not knowing where you are, I suggest first checking out a sculpting studio, for info,,, or if you happen to live in a town that sells artist supplies, check with them. Even a store such as Michaels might have what you need.

I began in Seattle, and in the city was a great place,,,Seattle Pottery, which sold all manner of clays, tools, and glazes. I had all the "stuff" and worked at it every day, and showed in local galleries, but only worked in fired material and glazes.

Steven Wolf

Answer 3

Why not look up places that specialize in ceramics supplies? I'm sure at least a few of them have kilns-there is no need to buy a kiln. You could use any kind of clay, then.

In any case, I wish you luck with your project...

Answer 4

Iam not sure if Iam spelling this correct, but take a look at "femo", or maybe its "fimo" it can be baked in a kitchen oven and is easy to work with

Answer 5

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