Projects with clay teach children to use their imaginations while creating art.
Experimenting with clay is an effective way for kids to literally get in touch with their art education. Clay projects are entertaining, inexpensive and let children create just about anything their imaginations can conceive. Be sure to follow all instructions on the packages of clay, as different kinds of clay require special drying and firing techniques.
Types of Clay
There are two types of clay typically used in art projects. The first is traditional clay, the brown-toned clay that needs to be fired in a kiln after sculpting and glazing. If you decide to use this type of clay, you will also need glazing paints and a place to fire your projects in a kiln. Many art schools and pottery studios rent out kiln time to the public, so contact some local pottery venues before you get started. The second type of clay, polymer clay, comes in different colors and does not require glazing, and needs to be baked in the oven to harden. With all clay projects, you will need a flat nonporous surface on which to work; clay residue can be tricky to remove from wood and tile surfaces.
Thumbprint Pots
Thumbprint pots are one of the simplest clay projects to make and can be created with either type of clay. The finished look of these pots is not precise; a thumbprint pot is meant to look homemade and earthy. Take a piece of clay and roll it into a ball between your hands. The piece can be any size you choose, depending on the desired size of the pot. Set the ball down on your work area and push your thumb into the middle of the ball so it looks like a thick doughnut. Pinch the sides of the ball gently, leaving your thumb in the center hole as you create the sides of your pot. When your pot is the desired size and shape, follow the finishing instructions depending on the type of clay you used.
Coil Pots
For a unique-looking project, coil pots are an easy undertaking with quirky results. Like thumbprint pots, coil pots can be made from either type of clay. Roll several pieces of clay into long strands. At the center of your work space, begin coiling one strand to make a flat spiral. This will be the base of your pot. The bigger the spiral, the larger your pot will be. Using a new strand, begin building the sides of your pot by coiling upward off the base. Continue coiling strands onto the pot until it reaches the desired size and follow the clay directions to finish.
Beads
Beads can be used to make jewelry and decorate crafts. Instead of buying beads, create your own. To make beads you will need polymer clay -- the type of clay that can be baked at home in an oven. You will also need a sharp knife, toothpicks, aluminum foil, a baking sheet and a small rolling pin or non-textured drinking glass. Pick out several colors of clay and roll a small piece of each color into a long strand. Combine the strands and pinch at the ends, creating a rope. Choose a new color for the outside of your beads and roll it into a thin, flat sheet. Wrap the thin sheet around the rope, squeezing gently to ensure the parts stick together. Slice the roll into 1/2 inch thick pieces, discarding the end pieces. Reshape the beads as needed; cutting the beads can flatten them out. Place the beads on a foil-lined baking sheet, flat side facing upward. Poke holes through each bead using toothpicks. Bake the beads according to the directions on the package.
