Things You'll Need:
- METHOD ONE (Molding):
- large plastic pail or basin
- sand
- water for dampening
- plaster of paris or lightweight powder craft substitute
- water for mixing
- trowel or wooden spoon
- plastic wrap
- METHOD TWO (Sculpting):
- lightweight air-dry modeling clay
- sculpting tools (either craft or plastic utensils)
- natural decorative objects: rocks, twigs, sand
- damp paper towels
- BOTH: protected work surface
- space for undisturbed drying, 24 hours or more
- acrylic paints, decorative grass or other craft items
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Step 1
Dampen sand until it will hold a shape. You are building a mold into which you will pour your molding solution, so think upside down. A deep hole will make a tall mountain. Two shallower holes with a ridge built up between them will make two rolling hills and a valley.
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Step 2
Line your sand mold with plastic wrap and gently pour in molding solution. Let dry undisturbed for at least 24 hours and turn out your shape, keeping a hand under it until it is safely landed on your work surface.
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Step 3
Use additional solution to patch minor cracks. You can also use craft sculpting tools or plastic implements to sharpen details. Now you're ready to decorate. Sand can be reshaped for new landforms.
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Step 1
Choose a piece of lightweight sculpting clay large enough for your landform (if you want a very large form, work in sections and glue together before decorating). Model the general shape with your hands.
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Step 2
Use sculpting tools or household items to add details and textures --- mountain ridges, the edge of a pond, the banks of a stream bed.
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Step 3
Incorporate natural decorative items as you sculpt: pebbles make good model boulders; a handful of sand adds a beach at the bottom of your cliff, and twigs can be planted (flesh them out into trees in the final decorating). Let dry thoroughly, and you're ready for final decoration.
