Are you passionate about art and interested in exploring the world of clay sculpture? Look no further as we unveil 14 superior clay sculptures that are set to captivate art enthusiasts in 2023. From intricate details and mesmerizing textures to innovative techniques and thought-provoking concepts, these extraordinary sculptures push the boundaries of creativity and leave a lasting impression. Whether you are an art collector or simply appreciate the beauty of sculpting, join us on this journey to discover the remarkable clay creations that await us in the upcoming year.
Overall Score: 7.5/10
The Honbay 10-Piece Double Ended Wooden Mini Modeling Tools are perfect for cutting, carving, shaping, and smoothing clay sculptures. Made of wood, they have a smooth surface and are comfortable to hold. Whether you're a professional or a beginner, these tools are suitable for all skill levels. They come in a pack of 10 and have a length of approximately 15.5cm/6.1inch. These mini modeling tools are great for artists looking to create fine details in their clay work. However, they may be too small for adults and not recommended for everyday use. Overall, they offer good value for the price and are a safe alternative for young artists before using sharp knives and wood.
Key Features
- Package included: 10 x Clay Sculpture Tools
- Length: approx. 15.5cm/6.1inch; Material: wood
- Smooth surface, comfortable to hold
- Used for cutting, carving, modeling, shaping, smoothing, decorating, etc
- Suitable for all skill levels, whether professional or beginner
Specifications
- N/A
Pros
- Good learning tools for children
- Great for fine details in clay work
- Safe alternative before using sharp knives and wood
- Smooth and comfortable to hold
Cons
- Not suitable for everyday use
- May be too small for adults
The Honbay 10-Piece Double Ended Wooden Mini Modeling Tools are a valuable set for artists of all skill levels. With their smooth surface and comfortable grip, they are perfect for cutting, carving, and shaping clay sculptures. While they may not be suitable for everyday use and may be too small for adults, these tools offer great value for the price. They provide a safe alternative for young artists and allow for the creation of intricate details in clay work. Overall, these mini modeling tools are a worthwhile addition to any artist’s toolkit.
Overall Score: 6.5/10
Create stunning sculptures with the Sargent Art Terracotta Sculpture Clay. This professional artist quality clay is ideal for high detail sculpting and is non-hardening, allowing for unlimited working time. With a large 2 lb size, it is great for mold making as well. The clay is non-toxic and safe to use. However, some customers have mentioned that it is not actual terracotta clay but rather a terracotta-colored synthetic material. Additionally, a few customers have experienced issues with the consistency and weight of the clay. Overall, the Sargent Art Terracotta Sculpture Clay is a versatile tool for artists, but keep in mind the potential limitations.
Key Features
- Non hardening clay, professional artist quality
- Ideal for high detail sculpting
- Large 2 Lb size
- Great for mold making as well
- Non-toxic and safe
Specifications
- Color: Terracotta
- Dimension: 7.00Lx6.00Wx1.00H
- Size: 2 Lb
Pros
- Professional artist quality
- Non-toxic and safe for use
Cons
- Not actual terracotta clay
- Inconsistent weight and texture
Overall, the Sargent Art Terracotta Sculpture Clay is a versatile and non-toxic option for artists. While it may not be genuine terracotta clay, it still offers great potential for high detail sculpting and mold making. However, some users have experienced issues with the consistency and weight of the clay. If you are looking for a clay that accurately mimics the properties of terracotta, this may not be the best choice. Nevertheless, it can still be a valuable addition to an artist’s toolkit, especially for those who prioritize non-toxic materials.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The US Art Supply 14-Piece Pottery, Clay Sculpture & Ceramics Tool Set is a complete set of clay tools packaged in its own canvas carry case. This unique set contains a wide variety of tools that can be used on different clays including pottery and air drying clay, Das, Polymer clay, and plasticine. The 14-piece set includes a detail tool, cleanup tool, drill retouching and sculpting needle, 3 ribbon tools, 6 wood modeling tools, and a needle/lace tool. The tools are very sturdy and durable, making them suitable for both beginners and seasoned artists. The only downside is the clear plastic case, which can be too small to carry the entire kit once it's been unpacked. Overall, this tool set offers great value for its affordable price.
Key Features
- Complete 14-piece Set of Clay Tools
- Wide variety of tools for different clays
- Packaged in its own Canvas Carry Case
Specifications
- Color: Multicolor
- Dimension: 9.30Lx5.80Wx2.50H
- Size: 14-Piece with Nylon Case
Pros
- Wide variety of tools
- Sturdy and durable
- Great value for the price
Cons
- Clear plastic case is too small once unpacked
The US Art Supply 14-Piece Pottery, Clay Sculpture & Ceramics Tool Set is an excellent set for both beginners and experienced artists. With its wide variety of tools and affordable price, it offers great value for money. The tools are sturdy and durable, making them suitable for various types of clays. The only drawback is the clear plastic case, which becomes impractical once the tools are unpacked. Overall, this tool set is a must-have for anyone interested in pottery, clay sculpture, or ceramics. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned artist, this set has everything you need to unleash your creativity and create beautiful works of art.
Overall Score: 8/10
The Jetmore 6 Pack Clay Tools Kit is a versatile and practical set for clay, pottery, and ceramic art works. It includes a variety of knife types to meet different sculpting needs. The wooden handles provide an excellent hand feeling, while the stainless steel heads are durable and easy to clean. With its double-end design, this set offers flexibility for your designs. It is an ideal creative gift for both children and adults, promoting hands-on ability, art training, creative thinking, and parent-child communication. The kit comes in a convenient pack of 6 and is lightweight and easy to carry.
Key Features
- Versatile use for claying, sculpting, carving, and more
- Wooden handle and stainless steel heads for durability
- Variety of knife types for different sculpting needs
- Double-end design for flexibility in designs
- Great creative gift for children and adults
Specifications
- Color: 6 Pack
- Dimension: 8.07Lx2.36Wx0.55H
Pros
- Versatile and practical for various art works
- Durable and easy to clean materials
- Offers flexibility in designs
- Promotes hands-on ability and creative thinking
Cons
- Tools may feel flimsy and light
- Some duplicate or similar ends
- Not suitable for long-term frequent use without damage
The Jetmore 6 Pack Clay Tools Kit is a great option for beginners or those looking to explore clay and pottery art. While some users find the tools to be flimsy, they still serve their purpose well and are ideal for trying out different sculpting techniques. The variety of knife types and the double-end design provide flexibility in designs, making it suitable for a wide range of projects. Additionally, this kit allows for artistic development in children while fostering creativity and enhancing parent-child communication. Overall, it’s a practical and affordable option for those interested in clay art.
Overall Score: 8.7/10
The Honbay 6-Piece Wooden Handle Double Ended Modeling Tools Clay Sculpture Tools is a versatile set that is perfect for both professionals and beginners. With double-ended tools, you can save storage space without compromising functionality. These tools can be used for cutting, carving, modeling, shaping, smoothing, decorating, and more. Not limited to clay, they are also suitable for other soft modeling materials like fondant, ceramics, dough, plasticine, polymer, wax, cake decorating, and pumpkin carving. The wooden handles provide a comfortable grip, while the sturdy construction ensures durability. However, they are not recommended for use on firm projects as they can bend easily. Overall, this set is a fantastic addition to any sculptor's toolkit.
Key Features
- Package includes: 6 x clay sculpture tools
- Double-ended for space-saving storage
- Suitable for cutting, carving, modeling, shaping, and more
- Ideal for clay, fondant, ceramics, and other soft modeling materials
- Suitable for all skill levels
- Wooden handles for a comfortable grip
Specifications
Pros
- Versatile and multi-functional
- Double-ended design saves storage space
- Suitable for various soft modeling materials
- Comfortable wooden handles
- Sturdy and durable construction
Cons
- Not suitable for use on firm projects
- Some ends may become loose after light use
Overall, the Honbay 6-Piece Wooden Handle Double Ended Modeling Tools Clay Sculpture Tools is a great set for sculptors of all levels. While not recommended for use on firm materials, they excel in handling soft clay and other modeling materials. The double-ended design saves space without sacrificing functionality, and the wooden handles provide a comfortable grip. They are sturdy and well-made, ensuring durability and longevity. With a good balance of positive reviews, this set is definitely worth considering for anyone looking to enhance their sculpting capabilities.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The Beginner's Guide to Sculpting Characters in Clay is a comprehensive book that provides step-by-step guidance on sculpting characters using clay. It features the collaboration of different artists, showcasing various methods and mediums. The book covers the basics of materials, tools, safety, and anatomy, making it suitable for beginners. It includes five different projects, each created by a different artist, using different mediums, tools, and methods. The book is beautifully designed and recommended for beginners who want to explore different approaches and techniques in character sculpting.
Key Features
- Comprehensive guide with artist collaborations
- Covers materials, tools, safety, and anatomy
- Features five different projects with various techniques
Specifications
- Dimension: 8.75Lx1.00Wx11.00H
Pros
- Comprehensive and well-written
- Beautifully designed with artist's work showcased
- Suitable for beginners with step-by-step guidance
Cons
- Limited number of projects
- Not suitable for those looking for ceramic clay sculpting
The Beginner’s Guide to Sculpting Characters in Clay is an excellent resource for beginners interested in learning character sculpting with clay. The book provides detailed guidance, covering materials, tools, safety, and anatomy. The inclusion of five different projects allows readers to explore various techniques and approaches. The collaboration with different artists adds diversity to the content and showcases beautiful artwork. While the book could benefit from more projects, it still offers valuable information and inspiration. Overall, it is a recommended choice for beginners looking to embark on their sculpting journey.
Overall Score: 9/10
Make Animal Sculptures with Paper Mache Clay is a comprehensive book that provides step-by-step instructions on creating stunning wildlife art using patterns and the author's easy-to-make, no-mess paper mache recipe. The book includes helpful tips and techniques for working with homemade paper mache clay to achieve fine details and professional results. With a variety of projects and clear instructions, even beginners can confidently create their own animal sculptures. The author, Jonni Good, is a respected artist and provides excellent resources, including her YouTube tutorials and website. This book is a valuable addition to any art library and a must-have for anyone interested in paper mache or sculpture. Overall, it is a fantastic resource for unleashing creativity and mastering the art of paper mache sculpture.
Key Features
Specifications
- N/A
Pros
- Step-by-step instructions with clear images
- Includes patterns and recipes for paper mache clay
- Suitable for beginners and experienced artists
- Provides options for personalizing projects
Cons
Make Animal Sculptures with Paper Mache Clay is an excellent resource for anyone interested in creating wildlife art with paper mache. The book offers detailed instructions, helpful tips, and a variety of projects for both beginners and experienced artists. The author’s homemade paper mache clay recipe allows for intricate details and professional results, making it a cost-effective alternative to pre-made clay. With the author’s encouraging and informative approach, readers will feel confident to explore their creativity and develop their own unique sculptures. Whether you’re new to paper mache or already a fan of the medium, this book is a must-have addition to your art library. Get inspired and start creating amazing animal sculptures today!
Overall Score: 8/10
Create beautiful and unique arts with LINPHCEY 9Pcs Pottery Clay Sculpting Tools. These high-quality tools are perfect for sculpting, modeling, blending, and shaping clay. With stainless steel tips and comfortable handles, they allow for precise and detailed works. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced artist, these tools are ideal for various DIY projects, including clay sculpture, rock painting, and paper flower making. The set comes with a storage case and makes for a great gift for artists, kids, or anyone passionate about clay modeling.
Key Features
- Includes 9pcs of pottery clay tools
- Made of high-quality material
- Multifunctional tool set suitable for various crafts
- Great for color shaping, blending, drawing, and fine detail
- Perfect gift for beginners and artists
Specifications
- Color: 9PCS Set
Pros
- Economical set with sufficient quantity for different needs
- Solid and bend-resistant metal tipped heads
- Smooth and comfortable handles for secure grip
- Suitable for clay sculpture and handicraft carving
- Ideal for both beginners and experienced artists
Cons
- Some tools may break or come apart with heavy use
- The red stain may bleed onto clay initially
LINPHCEY 9Pcs Pottery Clay Sculpting Tools offer great value for the price. While some users have experienced issues with durability, these tools are generally sturdy and reliable for various clay modeling projects. The set provides a good selection of high-quality tools that are suitable for both beginners and experienced artists. The smooth handles and precise stainless steel tips make working with clay a breeze. The red stain bleeding issue, although annoying, seems to subside after a few uses. Overall, these tools are a cost-effective option for anyone interested in pottery, sculpture, and other clay-related crafts.
Overall Score: 8/10
The U.S. Art Supply Professional High Gloss Pouring Paint Art Topcoat & Clay Varnish is a versatile acrylic paint medium. It offers a glossy, clear permanent protective finish for various art pieces, including finished pouring paint artwork, paintings, dry acrylic paint, and polymer and air-dry clay sculptures. This topcoat dries clear, non-yellowing, and water-resistant, providing UV protection to your artwork. The glossy varnish can be directly applied to dry water-based acrylic paint, pouring paint, clay, and artwork. It is recommended to apply at least two coats for optimal results. The product is non-toxic and meets ASTM D4236 standards.
Key Features
- 8 Ounce Bottle of U.S. Art Supply Professional High Gloss Pouring Paint Art Topcoat & Clay Varnish
- Glossy clear permanent protective finish for artwork and sculptures
- Non-yellowing and water-resistant, with UV damage protection
- Recommended for use on water-based acrylic paint and clay
- Non-toxic and conforms to ASTM D4236
Specifications
- Dimension: 2.00Lx2.00Wx6.50H
- Size: 8 ounces
Pros
- Provides a glossy and clear finish
- Protects artwork from UV damage
- Suitable for various art mediums
- Non-toxic and safe to use
Cons
The U.S. Art Supply Professional High Gloss Pouring Paint Art Topcoat & Clay Varnish is a reliable choice for artists looking to add an ultra-glossy finish to their artwork while ensuring long-lasting protection. Its versatility allows it to be used on different types of artwork, including pouring paint, paintings, and clay sculptures. The non-yellowing, water-resistant formula provides excellent UV damage protection. With its ease of application and non-toxic nature, this varnish is suitable for both professional artists and hobbyists. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting out, this topcoat will enhance and preserve your art with a high gloss and clear finish.
Overall Score: 8/10
The Sargent Art Gray Sculpture Clay is a professional artist quality non-hardening clay, ideal for high detail sculpting. With a large 2 Lb size, it is great for mold making as well. The clay is non-toxic and safe to use. It has received an excellent 4.1/5 customer rating and positive reviews praising its firmness, ability to hold detail, and easy workability. The clay does not air-dry and has a pleasing texture. It also has a pleasant chocolate milk-like smell. Overall, this Sargent Art Gray Sculpture Clay is a top choice for artists who want a non-hardening clay with great sculpting properties.
Key Features
- Non hardening clay, professional artist quality
- Ideal for high detail sculpting
- Large 2 Lb size
- Great for mold making as well
- Non-toxic and safe
Specifications
- Color: Gray
- Dimension: 7.00Lx6.00Wx1.00H
- Size: 2 Lb
Pros
- Non-hardening and safe for extended sculpting sessions
- Great for capturing intricate details
- Large quantity allows for multiple projects
- Can be used for mold making
- Non-toxic composition ensures safety
Cons
- Some inconsistencies in weight reported by customers
The Sargent Art Gray Sculpture Clay is an excellent choice for artists seeking non-hardening clay with exceptional sculpting qualities. Its ability to capture fine details and its non-toxic nature make it perfect for professional artists and beginners alike. The large 2 Lb size offers ample clay for multiple projects, and its suitability for mold making is an added advantage. Although there have been reports of slight weight inconsistencies, the overall positive customer rating and positive reviews make this product highly recommended for sculpting enthusiasts. Bring your creations to life with the Sargent Art Gray Sculpture Clay!
Overall Score: 8/10
The CZQC Clay Modeling Tools is a versatile set of plastic clay sculpture knives and wax carving tools designed for pottery and sharpening modeling techniques. With a range of different shapes and sizes, these tools are perfect for creating intricate details and textures in your clay or wax projects. The set offers great value, with a good assortment of tools that make your sculpting and pottery work easier. However, it's worth noting that some tools in the set are doubles and may have the same shape on one end. Additionally, the mold seam running along the edges of the tools might require sanding for optimal use. Overall, the CZQC Clay Modeling Tools is a reliable and affordable option for artists and hobbyists looking to enhance their sculpting and pottery skills.
Key Features
- Plastic clay sculpture knife wax carving pottery sharpen modeling tools
Specifications
- N/A
Pros
- Good set!
- Great Spackle Tools for fine detailing!
- Product was exactly as described
Cons
- Some tools are doubles
- Mold seam may require sanding for optimal use
The CZQC Clay Modeling Tools is a versatile and affordable set that offers artists and hobbyists a range of tools to enhance their sculpting and pottery projects. While there are some minor drawbacks such as duplicated shapes and the need for sanding along the mold seam, these tools still deliver excellent value. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, this set provides the convenience and precision needed to bring your creative visions to life. With its high customer rating and positive reviews, it’s clear that the CZQC Clay Modeling Tools are a popular choice among users. Grab this set today and start exploring the endless possibilities of clay and wax sculpting!
Overall Score: 9/10
Laguna WED Clay is a high-quality, self-hardening modeling clay that is perfect for molding and sculpture. With its smooth and pliable texture, it is easy to work with and great for hand building, replicas, taxidermy, clay art therapy, and studio pieces. This water-based clay is safe for kids and air dries after use, allowing for easy painting. Professional artists also use this Pro-Grade WED clay for modeling and molding in special effects sets and motion picture studios. The gray color adds a realistic touch to your creations. It is not formulated to be fired. The product comes in a 6 lb pack and is available on Amazon.
Key Features
- Smooth and soft water-based clay
- Extremely pliable and slow drying
- Ideal for hand building and replicas
- Used by professionals in special effects sets
- Safe for kids
Specifications
- Color: Grey
- Dimension: 6.00Lx6.00Wx3.00H
- Size: 6 lb
Pros
- Smooth and easy to work with
- Dries very hard
- Accepts paint and nail polish for a clean finish
Cons
- May crack if used with other materials
Laguna WED Clay is a reliable and high-quality air dry sculpting clay that is perfect for both beginners and professionals. Its smooth and pliable texture allows for easy modeling and the gray color adds a realistic touch to any sculpture. The clay dries hard, is safe for kids, and accepts paint and nail polish for a clean finish. However, users should be cautious when using it with other materials as it may crack. Overall, this clay is a great choice for anyone looking to explore their creativity through sculpting and molding.
Overall Score: 8/10
Get ready to bring some edgy humor into your home with the Andrew Dice Clay Sculptures. This collection showcases the comedian's unique personality and wit through a series of bold and explicit sculptures. Each piece is handcrafted with attention to detail, capturing Clay's iconic stage presence and delivering a dose of comedic charm. Whether you're a fan of the controversial comedian or simply appreciate unconventional art, these sculptures are sure to make a statement in any room. Note: This product contains explicit content and is not suitable for all audiences. Parental discretion is advised.
Key Features
- Handcrafted sculptures
- Captures Andrew Dice Clay's unique personality and wit
- Bold and explicit design
- Makes a statement in any room
Specifications
- N/A
Pros
- Highly detailed craftsmanship
- Unique addition to home decor
- Perfect for fans of Andrew Dice Clay
Cons
- Explicit content may not be suitable for all audiences
- Limited availability
The Andrew Dice Clay Sculptures offer a creative and edgy way to showcase your love for the comedian’s iconic humor. With their bold and explicit design, these handcrafted sculptures make a statement in any room. The attention to detail in each piece is remarkable, capturing Clay’s unique personality and wit. However, it’s important to note that these sculptures contain explicit content and may not be suitable for all audiences. If you’re a fan of Andrew Dice Clay and appreciate unconventional art, these sculptures are a must-have addition to your home decor.
Overall Score: 8/10
Mastering Sculpture: The Figure in Clay: A Guide to Capturing the Human Form for Ceramic Artists is a comprehensive guide for ceramic artists looking to capture the human form in clay. Written by Cristina Córdoba, a renowned artist and teacher, this book offers unique insights and techniques for sculpting the figure. The book is well-organized and features high-quality images, paper, and hardcover. It provides step-by-step instructions and patterns that can be used to create stunning sculptures. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced artist, this book is a valuable resource for enhancing your sculpting skills. The author's expertise and generosity shine through in her writing, making this book a must-have for any artist's collection.
Key Features
Specifications
- Dimension: 8.25Lx0.85Wx10.30H
Pros
Cons
Mastering Sculpture: The Figure in Clay is an excellent resource for ceramic artists who want to improve their sculpting skills. With its unique insights and well-organized approach, this book offers valuable techniques for capturing the human form in clay. The author’s expertise and teaching style make this book a standout in the field, and it’s suitable for both beginners and experienced sculptors. The high-quality images and paper add to the overall appeal of the book. Whether you’re looking to expand your knowledge or enhance your existing skills, Mastering Sculpture: The Figure in Clay is a valuable addition to any artist’s library.
Buyer's Guide: Clay Sculpture
Benefits of Clay Sculpture
- Enhances creativity and self-expression.
- Offers a tactile and hands-on artistic experience.
- Allows for intricate and detailed craftsmanship.
- Provides a therapeutic and stress-relieving activity.
- Offers a versatile medium for creating various forms and textures.
Factors to Consider Before Purchasing Clay Sculpture Supplies
- Type of Clay: Consider the different types of clay available, such as earthenware, stoneware, or polymer clay, and choose one that suits your desired outcome and level of expertise.
- Texture and Consistency: Pay attention to the texture and consistency of the clay, as it can vary from soft and pliable to firm and stiff. Determine which type will be most suitable for your sculpting techniques.
- Drying and Firing Requirements: Some clays require kiln firing, while others can be air-dried or baked. Consider the time, equipment, and cost involved in the drying and firing process before making a selection.
- Availability and Cost: Evaluate the availability and cost of the chosen clay, keeping in mind your budget and access to suppliers near your location.
- Tools and Equipment: Research the necessary tools and equipment required for clay sculpting, such as sculpting tools, wire armatures, texture stamps, and a workspace suitable for the chosen clay type.
- Safety Precautions: Familiarize yourself with any safety precautions associated with the chosen clay, such as wearing gloves, using ventilation when working with kilns, or avoiding inhalation of clay dust.
Essential Supplies for Clay Sculpture
- Clay: Depending on your preferences and needs, choose the appropriate type of clay – like air-dry clay, polymer clay, or traditional clay- that suits your project.
- Sculpting Tools: Acquire a set of sculpting tools consisting of various shapes and sizes to aid in sculpting, carving, and smoothing clay surfaces.
- Work Surface: Ensure you have a dedicated work surface that is non-porous and easy to clean, such as a wooden board or a marble slab, to provide stability during sculpting.
- Armature and Wire: Use wire and armature materials to create a skeletal structure, providing support and stability for larger and more complex sculptures.
- Texture Tools: Incorporate texture tools like stamps, rollers, or brushes to add intricate details and unique textures to your clay sculptures.
- Sanding and Finishing Tools: Invest in sanding and finishing tools to smoothen rough edges, refine details, and prepare sculptures for painting or sealing.
- Safety Gear: Protect yourself by using appropriate safety gear, including gloves, eyewear, and dust masks, especially when working with materials that produce dust or require firing.
Maintenance and Care Tips
- Wrap unused clay tightly in plastic wrap or store it in airtight containers to prevent drying.
- Regularly clean and organize your sculpting tools to ensure their longevity and effectiveness.
- When sculpting, periodically dampen your hands with water to prevent the clay from drying out or becoming too sticky.
- Store finished or in-progress sculptures on shelves or in protective containers to prevent accidental damage.
- After firing or sealing your clay sculpture, follow specific maintenance instructions for the chosen clay type to ensure its long-term preservation.
Frequently Asked Questions about 14 Superior Clay Sculpture for 2023
If your clay has completely dried, you cannot reuse it. However, some types of clay, such as air-dry clay or polymer clay, can be rehydrated or softened with water or appropriate solvents to some extent.
No, clay sculpture can be enjoyed by beginners and experienced artists alike. Starting with simple shapes and gradually exploring different techniques can help you develop your skills over time.
Yes, after the clay has been dried or fired, you can paint it with various types of acrylic or ceramic paints. Additionally, you can also use decorative techniques like glazing or applying varnish to enhance the aesthetics of your sculptures.
The drying time for clay sculptures depends on various factors, including the type and thickness of clay used, the ambient temperature, and the humidity levels. Generally, air-dry clay may take a few days to a week, while clay that requires kiln firing can take several hours to several days.
Cracks in clay sculptures can be difficult or impossible to repair. It is advisable to handle the clay carefully during the sculpting process and follow proper drying and firing techniques to minimize the chances of cracking.
