The 5 lb box of Aves Critter Clay in Native is the size to reach for when a project eats clay: larger sculpts, armatures to bulk out, ceramic-style prototypes or a run of terrain pieces. It is the same brown, water-based air-dry clay as the 1 lb bag, supplied in a box. Nothing needs firing; let the finished piece dry slowly at room temperature, away from radiators, and a thick piece can take up to six days to cure right through. The clay is also freeze-thaw stable.
Low 0–1 % shrinkage and a smooth, even texture
Keep unused clay sealed; chill or freeze it for a longer life
A few squirts of water, sealed in overnight, revive clay that has started to dry
Dried clay is sandable, but the dust contains crystalline silica: use a mask
03
Notes · Q & A
Air-dry or oven-bake clay — which should I choose?+
Air-dry clay hardens through exposure to room air, so it needs no oven but requires time for moisture to leave the material. Oven-bake clay remains workable until heated and usually becomes rigid after baking. Choose according to the finished part: air-dry foam clays may retain some flexibility, while baked polymer clays are selected for a hard sculpted result.
How long does air-dry clay take to dry, and can I speed it up?+
Drying time depends mainly on the thickness of the piece, airflow and the product's own formulation. Check the figure published on the individual product page, and build deep forms in manageable layers rather than trying to force a thick mass to dry quickly. Avoid strong heat unless the maker specifically recommends it, as rapid surface drying can trap moisture inside.
Can I paint air-dry clay, and does it need a primer?+
Most air-dry modelling clays can be painted once they are fully dry, but the product instructions should decide the paint system. A primer improves adhesion and gives a more consistent surface. Where the finished model bends or flexes, use a flexible paint layer so the coating can move with the material instead of cracking.
How do I stop an opened pack drying out?+
Press unused material back into its original resealable pack and remove as much trapped air as practical before closing it. Keep the pack sealed, away from direct heat and moving air. If a work session must stop, cover the unfinished piece tightly so exposed surfaces do not begin drying before you are ready to continue shaping.
04
Notes · Logistics
Shipping
Orders placed before 3pm (Mon–Fri) are dispatched the same day. UK delivery is by Royal Mail 24 Tracked. Free UK delivery on orders over £70. International delivery available via Royal Mail International Tracked or courier.
Returns
If you're not happy with your purchase, contact us within 30 days for a full refund or exchange. Items must be unused and in original packaging.
02
Table · Specification
Technical specifications
Product details
Brand
Aves Studio
Product code
CC5N
Type
Clay
Shipping weight
2722 g
Colour
Native
Composition & curing
Chemistry
Water-based clay
Working time
60 min
Full cure
144 h
Dimensions & contents
Net weight
2268 g
Safety & compliance
Signal word
Danger
Hazards
H350 May cause cancer (inhalation of dust), H372 Causes damage to the lungs through prolonged and repeated exposure to dust