How to Store Polymer Clay – Best Tips for Keeping It Fresh

Introduction

Proper storage is essential for keeping polymer clay soft, workable, and free from dust or contamination. Without the right conditions, clay can become too hard, sticky, or brittle, making it difficult to use. In this guide, we’ll cover the best ways to store polymer clay so that it stays fresh and ready for your next project.

Why Proper Polymer Clay Storage Matters

✔️ Prevents Drying & Hardening – Keeps clay soft and pliable for longer. ✔️ Avoids Dust & Lint Contamination – Protects your clay from unwanted debris. ✔️ Prevents Color Mixing – Keeps colors clean and separate. ✔️ Extends Shelf Life – Allows you to store clay for months or even years without deterioration.

Best Ways to Store Polymer Clay

1. Use Airtight Containers

🔹 Best for: Long-term storage and preventing dust. 🔹 How to Do It:

• Store polymer clay in plastic storage bins, ziplock bags, or glass jars.

• Make sure the container is airtight to prevent exposure to air.

• If using a plastic container, ensure it's polypropylene (PP) or polyethylene (PE), as some plastics can react with polymer clay.

Pro Tip: Look for containers labeled PP (♻️5) or PE (♻️2) at the bottom.

2. Keep Clay Away from Heat & Sunlight

🔹 Best for: Preventing premature curing. 🔹 How to Do It:

• Store clay in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

• Avoid placing clay near heat sources like radiators, laptops, or ovens.

• Ideal storage temperature is below 75°F (24°C).

Pro Tip: If your workspace gets warm, store clay in a temperature-controlled drawer or cabinet.

3. Wrap Clay in Wax Paper or Plastic Wrap

🔹 Best for: Preventing clay from sticking to containers. 🔹 How to Do It:

• Wrap individual blocks of clay in wax paper, parchment paper, or plastic wrap.

• This helps prevent soft clay from sticking to other surfaces.

• Label each wrapped piece with the brand and color name for easy identification.

Pro Tip: Avoid using aluminum foil, as it may react with certain clay types.

4. Use Divided Storage for Different Colors

🔹 Best for: Preventing color transfer. 🔹 How to Do It:

• Store light and dark colors separately to avoid unintended mixing.

• Use stackable bead organizers, pill boxes, or compartment trays to keep colors organized.

• If using ziplock bags, press out extra air before sealing.

Pro Tip: Store metallic or glittery clays separately, as their pigments can transfer.

5. Refrigerate for Long-Term Storage

🔹 Best for: Keeping clay fresh for months. 🔹 How to Do It:

• Place clay in an airtight bag or container before refrigerating.

• Allow clay to return to room temperature before working with it.

• Do not store clay near food, as it is not food-safe.

Pro Tip: Label clay storage containers with a “Do Not Eat” warning if kept in the fridge.

What to Avoid When Storing Polymer Clay

❌ Cardboard Boxes → ✔️ Can absorb oils from clay and cause drying. ❌ Non-Polypropylene Plastic → ✔️ Some plastics react with polymer clay, causing it to break down. ❌ Extreme Heat or Cold → ✔️ Can cause clay to become too hard or soft. ❌ Open Storage → ✔️ Exposes clay to dust, lint, and hair.

How Long Can Polymer Clay Be Stored?

When stored properly, polymer clay can last for years without losing its quality. Different brands have slightly different shelf lives, but well-stored clay remains soft and workable indefinitely.

Estimated Shelf Life of Popular Polymer Clay Brands:

• Premo & Sculpey – 2-5 years if stored correctly.

• Fimo & Kato – 3-6 years with airtight storage.

• Cernit & Pardo – 5+ years if kept cool and sealed.

Pro Tip: If old clay becomes too firm, soften it by kneading with a clay softener or liquid polymer clay.

Final Thoughts

Proper polymer clay storage keeps your materials fresh, soft, and ready to use whenever inspiration strikes. Whether you’re working on small jewelry pieces or large sculptures, following these tips will extend the life of your clay and maintain its quality.

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