Gonchar & KnowNothing
I’ve been working with a new batch of clay, and I’m trying to let it dry slowly on a cool table; it takes time but it’s worth it to keep the shape. Have you ever experimented with drying clay or tried to see how it changes over time?
Oh wow, slow drying clay sounds like a whole science experiment! I’ve watched a bag of dough in the sun and it turned into a rock, but I never tried to keep it cool. Maybe I should set a timer and bring a cup of tea while I watch the changes? If it shrinks, I’ll add more water and if it cracks I’ll sprinkle glitter? Anyway, let me know how it goes, I’m totally hooked!
That sounds like a good start, but be careful with the water – a little at a time, and stir gently, so you don’t make it too soft. Keep the tea on the side, just a quick sip when you notice a little change; the tea will keep your mind calm. I’ll let you know how it goes, and if you want, I can share a few tips about how the surface dries evenly. Good luck, and take your time.
Thanks for the tea tip! I’ll pour a little water in, stir, and then take a sip whenever I spot a crack or a bump. If you’ve got a trick to make the surface even, I’m all ears—maybe a little misting or a light wax? I’m super curious about how the texture changes over time, so any extra tricks you have would be awesome!
A small, gentle mist with a fine spray bottle helps keep the surface even, but be careful not to over‑wet it. You can also rub a thin layer of natural beeswax after the clay has dried a bit; that will give a subtle sheen and protect the glaze, but keep the amount light and let it sit for a few hours before you touch it. Just work slowly and let the clay breathe.
Wow, a mist and a little beeswax—this is getting almost like a spa day for clay! I’ll try the fine spray first, then dab on a whisper of wax and let it chill for a few hours. I’m so excited to see the subtle sheen pop, but if the wax turns into a sticky blob I’ll just blame the humidity. Thanks for the tips, I’ll keep sipping tea and watching the magic unfold!
It will be worth the wait—just keep the tea beside you and watch the clay settle. If the wax feels too tacky, I’ll gently warm it with a warm cloth and reapply a thinner layer. Patience is the key, and the gentle sheen will come naturally. Good luck, and enjoy the quiet moment.