Things You'll Need:
- Modeling clay or kiln-firing clay
- An array of sculpting tools, including found household objects
- A flat work surface at a comfortable height
- Somewhere to store projects in process
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Step 1
First, look around the house or at your day program site for things which can be used to smooth clay: round paperweights, rolling pins, peanut butter jars, plastic cups, spatulas, wooden spoons, cake knives, butter knives or sponges. You may wish to purchase a set of sculpting tools from an art supply outlet. These specialty tools are expensive, and it may be easier to simply use found objects. You will want one or more sculpting ribs, a sea sponge, a wire with handles for smooth cutting and various shaping tools.
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Step 2
Decide what type of clay to use. Recipes for various home made clays are at the end of this article in the resources section. Modeling clay is usually designed to dry without being fired in a kiln, and some types, such as polymer or plasticine clays, are designed to stay pliable.
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Step 3
Decide what type of clay project you wish to make. Bowls can be made using the slab technique, clay coils, or by throwing the clay on a potter's wheel. Figures such as faces or animals can be made using balls of clay and your fingers, with few tools needed for shaping or smoothing.
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Step 4
Because clay dries unevenly at times, it can crack and ruin your project if it is a large, solid object. Hollow out large projects, or build an armature. An armature is a foam or wire base to which your clay is applied. It is roughly the shape you want your final object to take, but requires a lot more smoothing.
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Step 5
Use your palm to feel rough spots on your sculpture, as it is more sensitive than your hand. If assisting someone with limited small motor coordination, encourage them to reach a little more each day to help them gain flexibility. Do not hyperextend their arm or force them to move too quickly. Allow the individual to decide how much or how little to interact with their project.
