Sculpting Miniatures

Lesson Summary

In this lesson, students will sculpt miniatures using colored air-dry clay. They will create small sculptures by combining basic three-dimensional shapes such as spheres, cylinders, cones, and cubes. The miniatures may follow any theme, and students are encouraged to sculpt them as small as they like while focusing on detail and craftsmanship.

Group Dialogue

Are there any topics that interest you, such as plants, insects, dinosaurs, cats, rocks, sea animals, cars, or animation? Why?
Do you have any theme ideas for your sculptures? Themes might include plants, dinosaurs, animals, fruits, dogs, furniture, farm animals, cars, Christmas, Halloween, flowers, sea animals, or favorite animation characters.
What objects or items are related to your chosen theme?

Materials Needed

Sketchbook
Pencil and eraser
Markers and colored pencils
Colored air-dry clay
Sculpting tools

Process

Ideas – Decide on a theme for your sculptures and sketch items related to that theme.
Prepare the Clay – Select and prepare the clay colors you will be using.
Practice – Get familiar with the clay by forming basic 3D shapes such as spheres, cylinders, cones, and cubes. Almost anything can be sculpted using combinations of these shapes.
Start Sculpting – Begin sculpting the first item in your theme, starting with the most basic shape and gradually adding details. Use sculpting tools to refine your work.