Clay is the heart and soul of pottery, and like any precious material, it needs a little love and care to stay in its best shape. Properly storing and even aging your clay can make a world of difference in your pottery practice. Think of it as giving your clay a spa day, ensuring it’s relaxed, happy, and ready to transform into something beautiful in your hands.
The key to keeping your clay happy lies in maintaining the right moisture level. Different clay bodies have different needs. Earthenware, being more porous, is a bit of a diva and needs extra attention to stay hydrated, because unfired and low-fired objects are at risk of re-hydration if exposed to fluctuations in relative humidity. Stoneware and porcelain are a bit more chill, thanks to their higher firing temperatures making them less porous, but they still appreciate a stable environment. Generally, you want to aim for a Goldilocks zone of 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C) with a relative humidity between 40% and 60%. Think of it as creating a cozy little nest for your clay. To prevent your clay from drying out, seal your clay in a tightly sealed plastic bag placed within a plastic container. And remember, mold loves the dark, so storing your clay in a well-lit area can help keep those unwanted guests away.
“Different clay bodies have different needs.”
Now, let’s talk about time. Pottery clay, unlike that forgotten yogurt in the back of your fridge, doesn’t really “expire.” It can be stored indefinitely, which is great news! However, its quality can change over time. You might find mold developing, but don’t panic! Many potters actually believe that a bit of mold can increase the clay’s elasticity. If you’re not a fan, you can simply cut away the affected areas or give the clay a bath in a bleach or vinegar solution. If your clay dries out, don’t despair! You can bring it back to life by adding water and giving it a good kneading session. The goal here is to store your clay in airtight containers, like plastic buckets with sealing lids or thick plastic bags, to shield it from the elements. And keep it away from extreme temperatures, because freezing can mess with its texture and workability. Learn more about clay care here. Mastering wedging techniques, as discussed here, can help you prepare clay that has been stored for a long time.
But what about aging clay? It’s like letting a fine wine mature, only with mud! Aging, or “souring,” your clay can do wonders for its plasticity and workability. Think of it as giving the clay particles time to get to know each other and align properly. Some potters even add organic materials like straw to the clay to help break down the particles and boost plasticity. To age your clay, simply store it in plastic bags in a cool, dark place for a few weeks to months. The longer it ages, the smoother and more responsive it becomes.
You can also make a damp box by placing a small amount of water at the bottom of a plastic container and position a raised platform above the water level. Place the clay on this platform and seal the container. This setup helps in maintaining the desired moisture level and prevents the clay from drying out.
Aging, or “souring,” your clay can do wonders for its plasticity and workability!
PotteryGeek
So, there you have it! With a little attention to moisture, storage, and maybe a bit of aging, you can keep your clay in tip-top shape, ready to bring your creative visions to life. Happy potting!