Using modeling clay to make an art card/ACEO
June 20, 2010 9:30 pm craft techniquesFor this project, I decided to make art cards from modeling clay, essentially miniature paintings measuring 2.5 x 3.5 inches, that can be exchanged with other artists. They can be made of any material as long as they meet the dimensions and are not too thick. I wanted to make more than one card so I made a latex mould (mold) of the finished items and then cast them in plaster before painting them.
Modeling clay is a material that dries at room temperature without needing to be fired in a kiln (such as clay). It is useful for small projects and for experimentation. It is relatively inexpensive and easy to use. There are lots of modeling clay products to try that dry at room temperature. There is also a product called modeling putty. This can be more expensive but is a finer material suitable for fine detail and making small objects.
You will need:
- modeling clay
- rolling pin (for use with craft materials only)
- clay modeling tool
- craft knife
Where can I buy self-hardening modeling clay?
Dick Blick Art Materials sell a vast range of art materials. It is an art supplies company that is based in the US.
If you order over a certain amount, shipping can be free within the US, conditions apply. Orders placed from outside the US will have a different shipping charge and may be subject to import duties. (Click on the shipping information link at the bottom of the page on Dick Blick Art Materials for details.)
Right: Prang Das Modeling Clay is air-hardening clay with a smooth, even texture that can be used on supports such as wood, cardboard, and terra cotta. After drying for 24 hours, it can be painted or varnished.
For more details, click on image.
Making an art card with modeling clay
Step One
Shape a piece of clay into a sausage. Then, using a rolling pin (to be used with craft materials only), roll it out flat. Follow the instructions on the packet, as different brands can vary.
Step Two
Using a piece of paper with the correct dimensions as a template, cut away the edges. Tip: Remember that clay may shrink slightly when dry so compensate by making it slightly bigger.
Step Three
Cut out shapes to fit on top on the square piece of rolled out clay. Here I cut mushroom shapes from another piece of rolled out clay.
Step Four
Stick them on to the clay background by dabbing with water and pressing down. Using the modeling tool, carve out any further detail. I carved spots on the mushrooms.
Step Five
Leave the finished item to dry out completely (it takes a few days). Tip: I tried to hurry the drying process by putting it in the microwave on the lowest possible heat. Do not try this! It just produced a big crack and warped the clay, which I had to repair by flattening it again and filling in the cracks.
Finished art card or ACEO
This is the art card when painted (using water-based paints)
Flower art card or ACEO
Here is another art card or ACEO with simple flowers.
Finished art card or ACEO
Here is the finished art card or ACEO.
Hieroglyphics art card or ACEO
I created a hieroglyphics tablet using the modeling tool.
Finished art card or ACEO
Here is the finished art card or ACEO.
Trees art card or ACEO
I made a simple child-like image of trees on a hill.
Finished art card or ACEO
Here is the finished art card or ACEO.
Sheep art card or ACEO
I created cartoon-like sheep by cutting out simple shapes.
Finished art card or ACEO
Here is the finished art card or ACEO.
Verdict for this project
Pros: The material is very easy to use and dries at room temperature. It didn’t seem to shrink that much when dry and would made a good master for creating a latex mold.
Cons: This is an excellent material, but slightly difficult to produce finer detail.
Other pages of interest
How to create a latex mold
How to cast plaster of Paris in a latex mold
