25 Jan How to Make a Clay Model of a Plum

Today we are going to make a clay model of a plum. This is the 3rd model from the book, A Manual of Clay Modelling by Hermione Unwin. A few weeks ago, we thought it would be a good idea to work through all 60 models in the book, despite never having done clay modelling before. As we settle into a routine with this, we are quickly conquering the apprehensions that we had originally felt.

Apprehensions Towards Clay Modelling

Apprehensions, fears and reservations toward starting with clay modelling can be very overwhelming. They can even completely prevent you from ever starting this work. (I say this from experience).

My biggest fear was the mess. I think every homeschool mom must find it difficult to keep her home neat and in order. It’s just the nature of homeschool, right? Please tell me I’m right. In our home, we have lots of necessary homeschool supplies that overflow our storage areas. Our living spaces are actively lived in and I’m not sure that I’ve ever had enough time and/or energy to get it all clean and in order. So, adding a VOLUNTARY mess to deal with was challenging for me!

I was also hesitant to start because I didn’t know anything about clay modelling. I’d done some clay modelling in a high school ceramics class, and that was it. It was also a very, very long time ago. It certainly does not put me in a position to teach this to my children.

I also had some significant reservations about starting clay modelling because I honestly didn’t see the value in it. I wasn’t about to commit to this task without buy-in.

In the past few weeks of starting clay modelling, I can happily say that my apprehensions have all been laid to rest. Yes, there is a mess. However, a large piece of plastic to cover the table has contained the mess very well. Getting the children involved in setup and cleanup is also very important and wise. I still don’t know much about clay modelling, but as with all handicrafts, I thoroughly enjoy learning them alongside my children. And finally, I started digging deeper into Charlotte Mason’s writings to learn the value of clay modelling. From my experience, Miss Mason didn’t do anything without a purpose. We have yet to experience the deeper and wide purposes of clay modelling, but I’m grateful to have overcome my apprehensions so early in the process.

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

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

We found that making a clay model of a plum was very similar to making a clay model of an orange and apple. So far, each fruit has had small differences in form, which has made the process a little more interesting each time.

It’s never too late to get started! With clay modelling, once you purchase the initial materials, you’re not going to need to continue to purchase anything else. Follow along with us on our YouTube channel, Happy Handicrafts, or here on our blog. We’d love to have you join us!