How to Store Air Dry Clay – Keep Your Clay Fresh & Workable
You've just finished a crafting session and you're wondering how to store your Resin Clay or Foam Clay properly? Storage matters more than most people think — packed incorrectly, air dry clay can dry out within hours and become unusable. With the right method, it stays soft and workable for weeks.
Why does air dry clay dry out so quickly?
Air dry clay hardens through moisture loss — that's both its biggest advantage (no oven needed) and its biggest weakness when it comes to storage. Once the packaging is opened, the clay starts drying out slowly. In dry indoor air, this can happen within a few hours. The goal of proper storage is simple: keep moisture in and minimise air contact.
Good to know: Resin Clay dries slightly more slowly than many other air-dry clays — giving you more time while sculpting. Even so, proper storage is non-negotiable.
The 3-Step Method
Wrap leftover clay in plastic wrap
Wrap unused clay tightly in plastic wrap — as few air pockets as possible. The tighter, the better. Shape it into a flat disc rather than a ball so the wrap sits evenly against the surface.
Place it in the included zip-lock bag
Every Aura Clay pack includes an extra zip-lock bag — for Resin Clay, the outer packaging itself is already a resealable Mylar bag. Place the wrapped clay inside and squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing.
Store in an airtight container with a damp paper towel
Place the zip-lock bag in an airtight container and add a lightly dampened paper towel. The towel creates a slightly humid atmosphere inside the container and prevents the clay from drying out further through the packaging.
⚠️ Hygiene tip: The damp paper towel can start to mould after about a week. Replace it regularly and give the container a quick spray of disinfectant before putting everything back in.
Can you revive dried out air dry clay?
Only partially. If the clay is still soft everywhere but starting to crack when kneaded, you can work in a few drops of water to restore the consistency. If parts of the clay have already hardened, it can't be saved and needs to be thrown away. That's why getting storage right from the start is so worth it.
💡 Pro tip: Store your clay somewhere cool and dark — not in direct sunlight or near a heat source. Warmth accelerates drying significantly. A cool cupboard or drawer is ideal.
Want to learn more about working with air dry clay? Our complete beginner's guide covers everything you need to know — all in one place.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
How do I store air dry clay properly?
Wrap leftover clay tightly in plastic wrap, place it in the included zip-lock bag, then store in an airtight container with a lightly dampened paper towel. This keeps your clay soft and workable for weeks.
Can you revive dried out air dry clay?
Only if it's still soft everywhere but showing cracks when kneaded — a few drops of water worked in will help. If parts have already hardened, it can't be saved.
How long does air dry clay last after opening?
With proper storage, several weeks to months. Unopened, it keeps for 1–2 years in a cool, dry place.
