04 Oct How to Make a Clay Model of a Walnut

Today in our clay modelling homeschool handicraft series, we are making model #22, a clay model of a walnut, from the book, A Manual of Clay-Modelling by Unwin. Think of this model as model #3, a plum, but with more details added. The walnut at first appeared difficult, but when broken down in simple steps – many which we have already accomplished – this model became very straight forward. So, before we even start, be sure to approach this clay model with a positive, can-do mindset.

Finding a walnut may not be as easy as it sounds. Once again, the challenge of finding the object arose. Stores in our area do not have whole intact walnuts in their shells, unless it’s Christmas time. So, if you’re considering this handicraft for a later date, I suggest making a list of the objects, and slowly collecting them over time. For us, by random chance, my daughter happened to have a small walnut shell. It was broken on one side, so we placed that side down and proceeded as normal.

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 walnut

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

This model will be made on our modelling board, using the armature. The model itself should be enlarged to at least twice its size. This is to ensure that the armature does not protrude out of the model. Also remember to position the walnut so that the ridge around the middle can be seen.

The first few steps in this project are exactly as for model #3, the plum.

The Process

Begin by making an oblong slab around the armature, slightly larger than the walnut. Then build up a lump of clay that is about double the size of the walnut. Smooth the model out with wet fingers and place it onto the armature. This is a good place to pause and compare the original object to the model. Make corrections to the model so that it best represents the original object.

Next, roll out a string of clay between the fingers and the modelling board. It should be long enough so that it can easily encircle the walnut. Flatten the string against the board and wet it with a sponge. Press the wet side around the middle of the walnut. Once it’s well-applied work it up with a tool so that the join cannot be seen. You should be able to notice that this rim is wider on one end of the walnut compared to the other. Be sure that incorporate this observation into your model.

You should also notice the point at one end of the model. Form this with your fingers. Then draw the dividing line on the rim with your tool, showing where the shell divides into two halves.

Now comes the fun and final part. Smooth the surface, then carefully draw the markings onto the model with the tool. If they appear too harsh or dramatic, they can always be partly effaced by passing over the surface with a wet finger.

How did yours turn out? I hope you are enjoying this handicraft series! Be sure to follow along with all of our handicrafts on YouTube, on Happy Handicrafts. This is where we share our homeschool handicraft lessons. We are real, authentic, and excited to be of service to our homeschooling community.