School-Age
FromMore Than Painting,
Sally Moomaw and Brenda Hieronymus
What to have
- firing clay (06-04) or self-hardening clay
- 4 trays
- smocks
- rollers (small rolling pins or dowels)
- objects to create impressions
- glaze or paint (optional)
What to do
Children can apply their experiences in working with clay to creating clay tiles. An endless variety of styles is possible. Children start by smoothing the clay flat with a roller. They can then add patterns and designs to the clay by pressing various objects into it. Leaves and shells make interesting impressions, as do lace, beads, chains, and many more found objects. The edges of the clay can be cut to create tiles of the desired shape: rectangular, square, hexagonal, etc. The teacher may need to help with this. The clay can then be allowed to dry. It can be fired if it is not self hardening clay. Depending on the type of clay, children can either paint or glaze their tiles.
Helpful Hints
Teachers may wish to cut out the center of the tiles before the clay is fired or hardens to create picture frames. Be sure the clay is not too thin after it is rolled out or it may easily crack. Don’t roll the clay all the way to the edge.
Why
Children will investigate the properties of clay and the use of simple tools and objects to create patterns and interesting impressions. Children can cut the clay into different shapes.
For more activities check out
More Than Painting: Exploring the Wonders of Art
By Sally Moomaw and Brenda Hieronymus Copyright 1999 School-Age