Workshop Method – Modelling Clay
Tools and materials:
- Modelling clay (air-dry, non-drying, or plasticine)
- Clay tools (optional: plastic knives, sticks, rolling pin, forks, sculpting tools)
- Mat, board or glossy tile to work on
- Apron or hand wipes (it can get messy — in a good way!)
- Optional: paints, brushes, toothpicks, stamps, leaves, or natural textures
Simple clay techniques to try:
1. Pinch Pot
- Roll a ball, press your thumb into the centre, and pinch the edges to form a bowl shape.
- Great for creating a little vessel to “hold” an intention.
2. Coil Building
- Roll long snake-like coils of clay and stack them in spirals or layers.
- Try shaping a small vase or sculpture.
3. Slab Building
- Flatten your clay with a rolling pin and cut shapes using tools or cookie cutters.
- Press in leaves, fabric, or textured items for surface detail.
4. Abstract Forming
- Let go of the need to "make something."
- Squish, roll, twist, press — feel the clay and follow what your hands want to do.
5. Symbol or Totem Making
- Create a small figure, animal, or symbol that represents a feeling, strength, or memory.
💡Air-dry clay tips:
- Allow pieces to dry for 24–48 hours.
- Avoid making very thick items (they may crack).
- You can mix acrylic paint, mica powder or sand/granules into clay while wet to create different colours and textures.
- You can paint dried pieces with acrylics and seal with PVA glue or clear varnish.
NOTE: Finishing processes (ie. sanding and vanishing) may take place after the class is completed to allow enough time to complete your pieces and have them properly dry. Pieces can be collected the following week if you leave with us for finishing.
🧘♀️ Mindful clay practice:
Close your eyes. What do your hands want to create today?
Feel the clay warm and shift. Notice your breathing.
Let your body lead the process — there’s no need for perfection.
Use clay as a form of emotional release, grounding, or storytelling. Just like our experiences, clay can be shaped, reshaped, and transformed.
Helpful Video Demonstrations
🎥 Beginner Air-Dry Clay Sculpting
Watch on YouTube
🎥 Air Dry Clay Basics
Watch on YouTube
🎥 Air Dry Clay Top Tips
Watch on YouTube
💡 Creative Prompts to Try
- What does safety feel like? Sculpt that.
- Make a memory object from childhood.
- Use shapes and lines to express today’s emotion.
- Create a clay token of gratitude or hope.
Want to Share Your Clay Story
Tag us on Instagram @peacebypieceart or use #PBPclaycreations to celebrate your creation and process with our community.
