01 Nov How to Make a Clay Model of a Banana

Starting a new project is always a little exciting. I was especially happy that this project did not require some weird, unobtainable object. Our project today is model #24 from the book, A Manual of Clay-Modelling by Unwin, a clay model of a banana. There were no big curve balls thrown at us with this project, and the bonus part is that you can eat it when you’re finished.

Materials Needed

• The book, A Manual of Clay Modelling by Hermione Unwin (or free online HERE)
• Modeling Clay (the book suggests red terra cotta clay)
• Clay modeling tools (this kit includes many tools, along with a sponge and wire to cut the clay)
• An modelling board with an armature – hopefully you’ve made this with us already
• A bowl of water
• An apron or paint shirt to protect your clothing
• Newspaper, or plastic covering to protect your table
• A banana

Happy Handicrafts Video: How to Make a Clay Model of a Banana

The instructions begin by referring us back to model #3, a clay model of a plum. First we make an oblong slab around the armature. We used the banana to direct us as to how long and wide we should make the slab, knowing that it needs to be slightly larger than the banana itself. The armature is going to be at one end of the slab.

Next we built up a lump of clay about the size and shape of the banana, smoothed it out, and put it onto the armature.

Once the lump of clay is pressed onto the armature, it’s time to compare it to the original object and make any adjustments that need to be made. The long planes of the banana, which are typically convex, will need to be smoothed out with a thumb. You will also need to add several long strips of clay to create the edge of the planes. We did this by rolling out strips of clay the length of the banana, setting them in place, and then smoothing them into object.

Our clay model of a banana was completed by working up both ends into the right shape. We added some texture to the ends with our tool, then smoothed the surface with a wet thumb and finger.

I hope you are enjoying our clay modeling series! We create this series for our fellow homeschooling families who find handicrafts challenging. Our YouTube channel, Happy Handicrafts, is a place to find handicraft ideas and tutorials. We document our own handicraft lessons, so that you can follow along, learning the skills, and loving the process.