How to Make a Clay Eye Ball
From art projects to Halloween decorations to science models, there are many reasons to create clay eyeballs. Determine the reason for the creation, and the type eyeball needed. Use pictures as a model for details, to increase authenticity. Work on a clean surface, to avoid incorporating any undesirable components such as dust or pet hair. Cover the table space with a clean tarp or wax paper.
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Things You'll Need
- White clay
- Black clay
- Blue, green or brown clay
- Red clay
- Rolling tool or pin
- Blade
Instructions
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1
The proportion and size of the eyeball is based on the intended use, be it a stand-alone Halloween decoration, doll eye or science project. Scale accordingly.
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2
Soften white clay by rolling it in between your palms. Form the clay into an appropriate-sized ball.
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3
Form the white ball into your desired eyeball shape. Depending on the project and desired outcome, you may want to flatten the clay into a rectangular or square shape. Set this base eyeball aside.
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4
Cut a small chunk of black clay. Soften it by rolling the clay between your fingers or palms. Create a cylinder shape in an appropriate size for a pupil. Slice a 1/8-inch or thinner round piece from the cylinder; set it aside.
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5
Cut a slightly larger amount of clay, the color you chose for the iris: blue, green, brown or other color. Repeat Step 4 with this colored clay, creating a slightly larger cylinder.
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6
Place the black slice on top of the colored piece. This should create the look of an iris and pupil. Carefully mash them together with your fingers.
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7
Create a realistic or an eerie look by using red clay as blood vessels, if desired. Warm some red clay by rolling it between your palms to create a cylindrical shape. Use a rolling tool to flatten the clay. Using a sharp blade, carefully cut thin strips to form blood vessels.
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8
Beginning from the back of the eyeball, press the red strips against the white eyeball. Do not let the red strips reach the iris. Six to eight blood vessels may provide a more realistic look. Include additional or thicker strips, to provide an eerier look.
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9
Paint the iris and pupil with a clear varnish, acrylic gloss or nail polish, to create a “lens.” This creates the eye's shine.
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Tips & Warnings
Before beginning the project, read the directions for the clay type you choose.
References
- Photo Credit Photos.com/Photos.com/Getty Images
