Question I am just getting started in to clay and I am not sure how long I have to wait for the clay to be dry, also while it is drying what should the room temp be. My stuff is in the garage and it stays cold in there. Thank you for your help
Answer Chadlynn,
Congratulations on diving into clay. I hope you find as many years of rewards as I have.
Clay needs to be thoroughly bone-dry before firing. It's difficult and takes longer to dry in the cold. Drying time also depends upon where you live. How humid your weather is. I live in an arrid desert, but when I lived in Hawaii where it is tropical my drying time for my work was double.
The dilemma you have is that generally you can feel a piece and if it still feels cold there is probably dampness inside.
You may try bringing a piece or 2 inside for the night, allowing them to warm up & then check for dampness.
Drying time also depends upon how thick a piece is, how large, etc. Bone-dry clay appears chalky, the color has lightened up, and again, no cold spots to touch.
I'm sorry I couldn't be more specific. If you wish to write back, tell me where you live, what the temperatures are, what you're making and how large it is, I could try to be more exact. :) Leisha
