13 Jun How to Make a Clay Model of An Oak Leaf

Our homeschool handicraft project for today, is a clay model of an oak leaf. This is model #39 from the book, A Manual of Clay-Modelling by Hermione Unwin and it’s part of our clay modelling series. We’ve made clay models of leaves before (a laurel leaf, a poplar leaf, and an ivy leaf), so this should not be a massive challenge. We are going to use the principles and skills from previous lessons and add some detailing.

An oak leaf can vary in shape and size depending on the tree. Oak leaves are typically broad and flat with a strong central vein. The leaves are lobed, meaning they are divided into rounded or pointed projections. Ours are pointed.

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
• An oak leaf

Happy Handicrafts Video: How to Make a Clay Model of an Oak Leaf

The Process

The directions point us to Model #9, the laurel leaf. Make the model away from the armature, as it does not need its support. Once you decide how you want your leaf positioned, set it in place and do not move it. Copy it in the same position in which it lies on the table.

We began by making a slab to hold the leaf. Design it with the plan to have a 1/2 inch margin all around the leaf, once it is modelled.

Once the slab was completed, we drew the outline of the leaf onto the slab with the tool. We then built up the model inside the outline. The instructions guide us to begin at the highest point, making it stand up above the slab as much as the same part of the leaf does above the table. From there, we worked to the lowest point, noting and copying all irregularities of surface and edge.

Using our fingers, we modelled the stalk and connected it to the base of the leaf, keeping it solid underneath. To give the impression of a raised midrib, we depressed the clay along each side of the rib with the tool.

We marked the lateral ribs with the tool.

We then cut out the clay from underneath the model, to give it the appearance of being thin at the edge. To complete the model, we smoothed over the entire surface and leaf.

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