Room Temperature

• Leaving the modeling clay to acclimate to room temperature before working with it can help to soften it. Increase the heat in the room, to speed the process. If you are planning to work with the modeling clay, try to let it sit for three to four hours before beginning to work with it.
  
  

Kneading

• Kneading the modeling clay can help spread the clay and reduce the density. Work it in your hands as much as you can to soften it. It should become easier to knead the more you work with it. If the clay starts out too hard for you to knead it comfortably, use a clean potato masher or meat tenderizer to smash it over and over. This will soften the clay.
  
  

Warm Water

• Ball up the modeling clay and stick it into a bowl of warm water. The modeling clay does not absorb the water, but the moisture and warmth of the water can help to soften it until it is comfortable to work with. Blot the ball of clay with a dry towel to remove the moisture before working with it.
  
  

Direct Heat

• Use a hairdryer on medium heat to apply direct heat to speed the softening process. If you do not have a hairdryer, you can place the clay onto a microwave-safe plate and microwave it for about three to five seconds on medium heat. If you use high heat or leave it in the microwave for too long, it can melt and become dangerously hot.