So it was the last week of term this week and the kids finished their paper clay sculptures, using either paint or torn paper (decoupage). I particularly loved the decoupaged ones which added a lovely texture, in keeping with the paper clay, as well as incorporating interesting patterns. But of course, the paint gave more control over the colours and texture. And some used both – see the goose and the perfume bottle! And one child even made a whole habitat for her…
These two weeks we were busy with paper clay sculptures. Paper clay is a kind of paper mache, but the paper is mulched first before applying to the armature. I used this recipe from Jonni Good and it worked really well. The first step is to create the armature. What worked best was cardboard and scrunched up newspaper (careful to scrunch up the newspaper as tight as you can) but wire is also possible. Its really important that the sculpture is as tight…
As autumn approaches I’ve been thinking back to the fun we had during the summer holiday classes. We sculpted, painted, constructed, drew, stamped, built, cut, stuck, collaged, printed… and more! Particularly loved the papier mache constructions so simple but effective. Make simple cardboard and/or newspaper base – we had a rabbit, a bus, a boat, a crown, a cake – it really can be anything as long as it’s stable enough – and then cover it in newspaper strips dipped in diluted PVA.…