30 May How to Make a Clay Model of a Pair of Mussel Shells (Concave)

Today we are making our second pair of mussel shells (I hope you saved your shells from Lesson #31!). Lesson #38, from the book, A Manual of Clay-Modelling by Hermione Unwin, is a clay model of a pair of mussels shells (concave). First we made a convex pair, and now we are making the concave version. Come join us as part of our homeschool handicraft clay modelling series!

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 pair of mussel shells

Happy Handicrafts Video: How to Make a Clay Model of a Pair of Mussel Shells (Concave)

The Process

The directions for this lesson are referred back to model #25, the cockle shell (concave). Begin by placing the mussel shells with the hollow sides upwards. Depending on the side of the shells, you may want to adjust your model size. Our mussel shells were quite tiny, so we made the model to scale.

As we normally do, we began making a clay slab, this time away from the armature. Make it of such a size to allow a margin of 1/2″ all around the model. Then using the tool, sketch the outline of the shell on the slab.

Take note of the height of the highest point of the shell and the angle at which it lies on the table. Then begin to build up the form of the shells, leaving the hollow in the middle, and making it solid underneath up to the edge.

Next we began to model the inside. We work up the edge, cutting it out a little underneath so that the thickness shows only at the edge.

To complete our clay model of a pair of mussel shells (concave), we added a few details and smoothed it out.

Come follow us on YouTube, at Happy Handicrafts, where we share videos of all of our homeschool handicrafts!. We would love to have you join us!