properties of sculpture materials, general health and safety tips

clay.
traditionally dug directly from the earth and then modelled into shape before being fired at a high temperature to add strength and make a permanent form. heating the clay to such high temperatures must be done using a kiln which can be found in most community colleges that do ceramics or you can buy your own but it takes up a large amount of space and can be rather expensive. if you've used a synthetic clay they can be fired at much lower temperatures so you can use your oven or just leaving them out to dry will do just fine.
when storing clay it must be kept in a air tight bag because otherwise your clay will dry out. if your clay does happen to dry out then break it up into small pieces put it into a container (bowl) add roughly the same amount of water to clay and then it will start to reconstruct itself. before using the reconstructed clay cut the clay in half, slam either piece together and then repeat the process cutting perpendicular each time.

plaster.
commonly used to replicate purposes, such as the reproduction of greek and roman statues. however, plaster can be used as a material in its own rights. when cast into a block it can be used to carve into becoming a much cheaper and easier substance to carve. this is due to the fact that it reacts with the moisture in the air over time, causing it to set and become hard. plaster should like clay be kept in an air tight container and stored in a dry place.
when icing plaster, first half-fill a plastic bowl with water then begin sprinkling the plaster evenly around the bowl. stop when theres a peak in the centre of the bowl. next, mix the plaster with your hand until all of the lumps have gone and the mixture is smooth. when the box becomes a more creamy substance pour into a cast. when poured smack the surface that the cast is on to draw out any air bubbles from the mix. mixing plaster creates a chemical reaction and to speed up the reaction using warmer water usually does the trick. if you want it be slower use colder water. however, never change the plaster to water ratio because that only results in a poor consistency of plaster.

health and safety.
-when using plaster, dry clay or spray paint, always wear a dust mask and work in a well ventilated area.
-when clipping plaster wear goggles.
-when bending sharpe wire, cutting with a scalpel or hammering metal, always wear protective gloves.
-wash hands thoroughly after using glue, paint or plaster.