Things You'll Need:
- Water based or polymer clay
- Photos or drawings of ducks
- Wine bottle or other object for frame
- Clay sculpting tools
- Kiln
- Clay paint and glaze
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Step 1
Decide what kind of clay you'll use. The most commonly used form for duck decoys is water-based clay since it's easiest to work with and shape. You'll need about 3 to 5 lbs. of either water-based or polymer modeling clay for the decoy. Polymer clay has a plastic-like feel to it and slightly more shine.
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Step 2
Study pictures of ducks. Use birding guides or websites about various duck species until you decide on the breed of duck to use. Keep the pictures handy throughout the process so you have a reference point.
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Step 3
Make a frame for the duck decoy. You can use wine bottles or wire to give shape to the duck's body, neck and head. This is what you'll sculpt around.
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Step 4
Mix the clay with water per package instructions, kneading it until it's soft and pliable.
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Step 5
Form the clay around the skeleton until it has a full and shapely appearance. Look at the pictures you've chosen frequently and carefully to ensure they match your duck's look and size.
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Step 6
Utilize the sculpture tools to form the body, wings, head and beak of the duck. Use smaller sculpting tools to create details such as eyes, feathers and other distinct features.
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Step 7
Turn on the kiln and allow it to reach the correct temperature. The temperature should be about 1,000 to 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit for water based clay and 250 to 275 degrees Fahrenheit for polymer clay. Allow the sculpture to bake according to the proper time per the kiln's operating instructions. Let the sculpture cool, then paint it according to the duck's colors you've chosen. Glaze the decoy if desired and bake it in the kiln again.
