💠Think About...
1. What kinds of creatures could you make by combining parts from different animals? What unique abilities might this new creature have?
2. What simple shapes will you use to create your pinch pot creature?
3. In nature, animals have physical traits that help them survive in their environment. What special features could you add to your creature to help it thrive in its habitat?
4. If your creature came to life, what personality do you think it would have based on its appearance? What would you name it and why?
5. How could creating pinch pot creatures be used to tell stories or teach lessons? What kind of story might your creature be a part of?
🔨 Your Project
- Sketch your ideas: Before you begin building, take a few minutes to imagine what your pinch pot creature will look like. Use the planning sheet to sketch out the basic shapes you will need and decide on the features you want to include.
- Form the pinch pot base: Start by rolling a ball of clay about the size of a small orange. Then push your thumb into the center and pinch the walls to form a bowl shape. Keep turning the clay as you pinch so the walls stay even. Smooth out any cracks with a damp sponge.
- Add the main body parts: Once you have a basic pot shape, use additional pieces of clay to create the main parts of your creature (head, legs, tail, etc.). Score the edges before attaching them to the pot with slip and blend the seams with your fingers or a clay tool.
- Refine the features: Now it's time to bring your creature to life with details like eyes, noses, scales, or fur. Use small bits of clay to shape these features and attach them securely by scoring each side and adding slip. Remember to keep the clay moist as you work.
- Make final touches: Step back and look at your creature from all angles. Make any final adjustments needed for balance and stability. You can use clay tools to add texture or patterns. If needed, use a damp sponge to smooth surfaces.
- Allow to dry: Set your completed creature aside to air dry fully. This may take a day or two depending on the thickness of the clay. Once it is completely dry, you can paint it with acrylic paints if desired.
Tips:
- If the clay starts to feel dry or crack as you work, dip your fingers in water or use a damp sponge to moisten it.
- To attach two pieces of clay together, always score both surfaces first by making hatch marks with a clay tool or toothpick. Then coat the scored areas with a little water or slip before pressing the pieces together firmly.
- If your creature starts to sag or collapse, you may need to let the base dry longer before adding more weight. You can also add temporary supports like crumpled paper while it dries.
- Don't worry if your creature doesn't look exactly like your sketch. Embrace the unique results that come from working with clay!