Starting with Modeling
Modeling
Modeling is the process of shaping and forming an object from a pliable material such as clay or quick hardening materials like Fimo, plaster of Paris and papier-mâché. Modeling is very a tactile art at which it is very easy to succeed and provides fun for kids as well as adults. Only a few basic supplies are needed to get started: some modeling material and a few basic tools that can be purchased or found around the house.
Clays & Tools
Modeling materials may be placed into two categories: traditional and non-traditional. Clay, clay mixtures, papier-mâché and plaster of Paris are considered traditional materials. Clay, also called earth clay, is very common and is what most people think of when they consider modeling. The one deterrent from beginning modeling using earth clay is that the final product must be fired in a kiln. Unless you have access to a kiln, begin your modeling education using air-hardening or oven-hardening clays. Clays made from synthetics, such as Fimo and Sculpey polymer clays, or made from clay mixed with chemicals and oils known as plasticine, are for obvious reasons considered non-traditional. Polymer clays come in a huge assortment of fully blendable colors; they remain pliable until you fire them and can be fired in a home oven. Plasticine clays also come in a variety of colors but remain totally pliable–they are used mainly in preliminary sculptures and for animation.
Because clays are so pliable, it is easy to manipulate them with simple tools that may be fashioned from everyday objects. A bent piece of wire or different size nails are quite useful in shaping sculptures as are toothpicks and scissors. For more professional results clay tools are available. These tools are typically shaped wood or bent metal wire on wooden handles. Just a few will allow you to define your sculptures with precision.
Molds
When pushed into a mold a pliable material will adhere to the mold’s shape, most often with extreme detail. Molds are available pre-made, and all you need to do is push a modeling material into them to create the shape. These push-molds are great fun for kids and crafters who find the results can be used as jewelry, ornaments, wall hangings, magnets, etc. Molds can also be
custom made from any original piece of sculpture. Custom moldmaking is a complex process and complete books on the subject are available.
Armatures
No matter the modeling material you choose, if your final sculpture will be quite large, you will most likely need an armature. An armature is a structure used to support the sculpture, similar to the skeleton of your body. Modeling materials adhere directly to the armature and the whole becomes the final sculpture. Armatures are available pre-formed in basic figure and animal shapes or you can make your own. A variety of substances can be used to make armatures. It’s best to experiment with different types of wire and wood to find what works best for your technique.
Basic Bead Making
1) Round Beads – Roll a log of clay the same thickness as the diameter of the beads required. Cut lengths of the same measurement. Roll each length lightly between your palms until the bead is quite round. Piece the ball with a needle and continue to roll against your palm to enlarge the hole.
To create a fluted pattern on your round bead, press the side of a needle against it all round to indent the sides.
2) Disk Beads – Start with a round bead then press each down on a board with your finger until they are the desired thickness. Use a blunt needle to pierce the center, enlarging the hole with a circular motion. Slice the discs from the board with a craft knife and bake.
3) Tube Beads – Similar to creating round beads, start with a log and cut and pierce the lengths as shown.