Oven-bake clay creations are quite sturdy in a bulky state such as a large sculpture. For thin, small items which are fragile and prone to breaking we recommend Premo! Sculpey and Sculpey UltraLight clays which are stronger and more resilient. To clean, use a feather duster to remove surface dust. If needed, hand wash with gentle soap and water. Never use any harsh chemical cleaners to clean. Do not place items in the dishwasher as the heat and water will damage the piece. Polymer clay, if exposed to direct sunlight, will fade somewhat over time. Large sculptures, such as those used in gardens, should be sealed with marine varnish or Sculpey Glazes to prevent deterioration.