08 Mar How to Make a Clay Model of a Lemon

Today we are tackling the 6th clay model from the book A Manual of Clay-Modeling by Unwin. This model is of a clay model of a lemon, and if you’ve been following along with us in this video series, you’ll find that this was fairly easy. It employed many of the same techniques that we had used in previous models, making this session fairly short in comparison to previous ones.

Our work with clay modelling is part of a project to incorporate Charlotte Mason’s teachings into our homeschool. We’ve followed the Charlotte Mason philosophy in our homeschool from the beginning, but it’s not always been to the letter. Clay modelling should ideally begin to be a part of a child’s work in the elementary grades. Not understanding the importance of this, and being a little overwhelmed, we delayed it. But it’s never too late to start!

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 lemon

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

We noticed that in the book, the instructions are becoming more and more sparce and concise. It’s clearly relying on the fact that you are developing more and more experience as you progress through the book. We do, however, find it useful to revisit previous models and instructions to ensure that we are not missing important points.

We mentioned in our previous post that February is our struggle month. When you are struggling, one of the best things you can do is turn to creativity. Taking time to relax with your children, or to set them up with a Happy Handicrafts video and some supplies, allows them to take a brain break. Charlotte Mason talks about this idea of switching areas of study because it varies which part of the brain is working. Allowing an area to rest is as important as resting the body. So, take some time every day to sit down and do a handicraft!