Was skeptical about using air drying clay for furniture repairs... not anymore

My mom gave me this old oak side table that had a big chunk missing from one corner. I figured it was a goner but my friend who does pottery told me to try air drying clay instead of wood filler. I laughed at her honestly. But $12 for a block of clay and some sanding later, that corner looks perfect. Took maybe 3 coats and 48 hours drying time. Never would have guessed it could hold up like this. Anyone else tried using non wood stuff for furniture fixes?

2 comments

2 Comments

norag6611d ago

Consider sealing it with a matte varnish if you haven't already. I've heard moisture and humidity can make air dry clay soften over time.

oliver_wilson4911d ago

Hey @norag66, did you see that video from that pottery guy who tested different sealants on air dry clay? He left samples outside for a month, and the ones without any coating turned into crumbly messes. I tried matte varnish on a couple of my pieces last year, and they held up way better than the unsealed ones through summer humidity. Just make sure you let the clay fully dry before you put varnish on, or it can trap moisture inside and crack later.