How to Make Ceramic Owls

Ceramic owls are a terrific craft project fpr older kids, and the result is a ceramic replica of the majestic great horned owl, suitable for hanging. This craft project isn't only a great art lesson, but also creates a perfect opportunity to talk about different types of owls and their habitats.

Things You'll Need

• Pictures of Great Horned Owls
• Air-dry clay
• Tools to cut clay
• Texturing tools such as nails, forks, old toothbrushes or sticks
• Brown shoe polish with foam applicator or acrylic paint
• Yellow or gold acrylic paint
• Clear or tinted glaze

Instructions

1. Roll out a slab of clay about an inch thick.

2. Cut an oval shape with clay tools or craft sticks. Roll the top of the oval down to create the top of the owl's head and pinch the clay to form a beak and feathery tufts, like a horned owl.

3. Draw the owl's wings with a clay tool or a nail. Add texture to the owl with forks, sea shells, screws, toothbrushes or whatever is handy.

4. Inscribe your name on the back of the owl and set the owl aside long enough to dry

5. Color the owl with shoe polish and foam applicators or thinned acrylic paint. Paint the beaks and eyes with yellow or gold acrylic paints.

6. Spray the ceramic owl with a coating of clear or lightly tinted gloss and let it dry.

7. Glue a cardboard hanger on the back with a hot glue gun or glue the owl to a sturdy piece of tree branch.