How to Make a 3D Model of a Volcano
Making a 3D model volcano is an easy and helpful way to teach kids about these eruptive formations. Using some craft tools, some imagination and a little bit of work, you can make your own model volcano for a school project, or just for a fun project to do at home with kids.
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Rocks and pebbles
- Tan and brown clay
- Poster board
- Long spoon
- Orange acrylic latex paint
- Paintbrush
- Shellac spray
Instructions
-
-
1
Measure out tan or brown modeling clay to the amount you need. For a smaller model use a couple of cups; for a larger model you may need about five cups. Roll together into a lump.
-
2
Put your lump of clay on a large piece of poster board and begin molding it into a mountain shape with a peak at the center. Remember that your clay doesn't have to be completely smooth, as volcanoes tend to be jagged and rocky.
-
-
3
Use a long spoon to dig a hole into the center of your volcano going down inside and stopping an inch or so before you reach the bottom. Make the hole a couple of inches wide for a larger volcano model, or about 1/2 inch wide for a smaller model.
-
4
Embed your rocks and pebbles into the clay all around your volcano to give it a more realistic rocky look. You may want to place larger rocks down at the base, getting smaller as they go up.
-
5
Allow the clay to dry. Depending on the clay brand, drying time can take anywhere from a few to 24 hours.
-
6
Paint the mouth of the hole of your volcano with some orange acrylic latex paint to simulate the look of lava atop your volcano, and paint streaks going down on all sides.
-
7
Spray your model with some shellac spray sealant and allow a few hours to dry. This will keep paint from chipping and help rocks stay in place.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
For an active model, mix a few drops of orange or red food dye with about ½ cup of vinegar and pour a couple of tablespoons of baking soda into the hole in your volcano. Pour in your vinegar and watch your 3D model volcano erupt.
References
- Photo Credit Volcano image by wojciechhajduk from Fotolia.com
