Modeling Materials

Clays and Tools Modeling materials may be placed into two categories: traditional and non-traditional. Clay, such as firing 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.