How to Make a Celtic Torc

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Things You'll Need

  • Modeling clay that will air-dry

  • Wooden or plastic cutting board

  • Ruler

  • Scissors

  • String

  • White glue

  • Metallic paint (gold or bronze looks best)

  • Small paintbrush

This elaborate Iron Age torc is made of woven silver and gold.
Image Credit: Oli Scarff/Getty Images News/Getty Images

A Celtic torc is a heavy necklace that is open so that it encircles the base of the neck and rests on the shoulders. These talismans supposedly kept evil spirits at bay. You can use modeling clay to make a simple replica torc for a costume or school project.

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Step 1

Roll the modeling clay into two long ropes that are at least 2 feet long and about 3/4 inch thick. Twist the two pieces together to create one piece that resembles a length of rope.

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Step 2

Press the ends of the twisted rope together to form a loop. You might need to dampen the ends a little to make them stick.

Step 3

Form the clay rope into a semi circle leaving an opening of between 3 and 4 inches so that it will fit around your neck. Press the loops at the ends together so that you cannot see through them and let the tork start to dry.

Step 4

Before the torc dries completely take string and decorate the loops of the torc and glue the string in place. Let the torc finish drying and then paint it and let it dry again.

Tip

Torcs were traditionally made from precious metals and given as rewards and gifts so using metallic paint will make your torc seem more realistic.

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