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Opened Model Magic can be stored in an air-tight container but should be used within a few days, as it is designed to dry and harden over a brief period of time.
In addition to the lack of sand-ability and brittleness, model magic, with large pieces can have a mild amount of shrinkage (almost imperceptible until you're trying to figure out why the thing went all wonky on you) and sometimes develop surface cracks.
Will Model Magic stand up to the use of water in a project such as a diorama? Crayola® Model Magic® modeling compound is not waterproof. In fact, water will have a negative effect on the product.
The air dry is very economical but can crack and break as dmbrad says. The model magic can be good if you want a light object as the air dry is much heavier. I also love sculpey.
However, the Crayola Model Magic Clay may not be the best material for all projects. While it air dries beautifully, it isn't as durable as traditional clay or polymer clay once dry. Therefore, it might not be suitable for creating long-lasting, robust pieces.
If you need clay that is resistant to flexion, is stiff, and bakes harder than other brands, the strongest polymer clay brand for this feature is Kato Polyclay. Baked Kato, while not as strong as stone, is certainly the most rigid and stiffest polymer clay brand after baking.
Unlike a clay, Model Magic is not crumbly and will remain slightly soft when dry. Model magic can be kept sealed to allow for re use or allow to air dry, which can then be painted and decorated.
It's not suitable for hardening, baking, or painting as it's formulated exclusively for molding and shaping.
Model Magic really is not reusable. Once you open a package it will all dry into a solid. If you plan to use some right away and save some for later, I would recommend parting out what you need and immediately putting the remainder into an air-tight plastic bag and squeezing all the air out.
The drying time for Model Magic generally takes 24 hours to dry to the touch and 72 hours (about 3 days) to dry completely.
Model Magic can be sealed once your piece is completely dry. It will generally take 24 hours to dry to the touch; 72 hours to dry completely. When completely dry, you can apply an acrylic varnish or Model Magic Glossy Glaze to preserve and protect your work. Sealing your work, however, will not waterproof it.
A: Just like play doh when left out, this product dries out. No moisture means it'll crack.
We have not tested Model Magic to be dried with a hairdryer, so we are unable to determine its results. Since Model Magic does not dry completely, we may suggest using our Air Dry Clay as another option for this craft. If you would like further assistance, please feel free to contact us at Crayola.com/support.
Dry Model Magic:
Paint with Crayola Watercolour, Tempera, Acrylic, and washable paints or decorated with Crayola Markers.
Crayola Model Magic should stay pliable when placed in an air-tight container. We do not suggest putting water on this compound, as it will cause adverse effects.
From what I've read, you microwave it for 15 seconds and then knead it.
However, too much water may result in cracking as the clay dries. If too much water is added, making the clay very soft, allow the excess water to evaporate before molding pieces. Air-Dry Clay pieces should be at least 1/4 inch in thickness. If the item you created is too thin, cracking may occur.
Generally, you can expect your Model Magic to have a shelf life of approximately 24 months. If you have any other questions, please do not hesitate to call us at 1-800-CRAYOLA. Helpful?
Model Magic is made of a plastic foam that will dissolve eventually in water or get soft in a humid climate.
I have heard many stories about its pungent smell, and I would have to agree. It has a really unpleasant smell. It's very soft which makes it very difficult to work with, and impossible to roll through the pasta machine. The baked clay is extremely brittle and breaks easily.
Professional sculptors often prefer water-based clay for its malleability and its ability to hold fine details. It arguably has the best "feeling" when you are working with it, due to it's natural qualities that are responsive to the touch.
Durability. Air-dry clay is more fragile, susceptible to cracking or chipping under improper handling, and therefore unsuitable for items requiring frequent handling or moisture exposure. Polymer clay is an exceptional material to create jewelry and figurines with, thanks to its strength once set.