Sculpting is an engaging art form that lets you express your creativity. However, it’s also quite challenging. Fortunately, you can use numerous helpful tips to hone your sculpting abilities.
The first tip we’d suggest is keeping your workspace tidy and organized. Doing this can expedite the creative process and make it more enjoyable.
1. Keep Your Work Space Clean and Organised
Cluttered workspaces can have a detrimental effect on your productivity. For example, studies have indicated that having an organized desk reduces focus and makes it harder to get work done.
Your workspace should be treated just like your kitchen table – don’t leave pens, pencils and paper clips lying around for weeks on end; otherwise, you will have an overwhelming mess to tidy up at the end of the day.
2. Keep Your Clay Warm
Clay can become challenging and unworkable if it becomes too cold. Warming the clay under a light bulb will soften it and make it workable again.
When storing clay, it’s essential to keep it away from moisture, as this can lead to cracks and warping. An excellent place for storing clay is a cupboard or cabinet.
3. Keep Your Eyes Open
One of the best ways to enhance your sculpture is to keep an open mind. Doing this allows you to view your work more holistically and better grasp how things fit together.
A great way to do this is by placing a mirror nearby where you can quickly see yourself working. This will serve as a compelling reminder of the main points of your project and also help you avoid common errors.
4. Keep Your Hands Clean
One of the best ways to prevent clay from becoming dirty is by keeping your hands clean. Dirty hands can spread germs that could lead to illness.
Wet your hands with water, apply soap and scrub gently. Pay special attention to the backs of your hands, between fingers and under nails. Scrub for 20 seconds; if necessary, hum “Happy Birthday” twice as a timer to help remind yourself how long it takes.
5. Keep Your Feet Closed
One of the most essential steps you can take when working in the studio is keeping your feet firmly planted on the ground. This will prevent you from getting involved in a clay-slinging fumble. To do this, wear a ventilated mask and gloves while working, preferably on an even surface with minimal scuffing or scratching. Doing this will guarantee maximum benefit from your time at the table.
6. Keep Your Clay Flat
Maintaining your clay flat during sculpting is essential. Doing so will make it simpler to work with.
To achieve this, use either your fingertips or a flexible-tipped sculpting tool to gently smooth out any rough spots and even out the surface.
Once the clay has dried, you can try lightly sanding with fine-grit sandpaper for a more polished appearance.
7. Keep Your Hands Open
When working with clay, it’s essential to keep your hands open and avoid putting pressure on the tips of your nails. You can do this by applying a thick moisturizer or cuticle oil directly onto your nails.
Avoid your hands becoming dry and brittle by exercising regularly. It also allows you to work more accurately with clay – an invaluable tip for long-nail artists!
8. Keep Your Eyes Closed
The world of sculpture has long recognized the value of keeping your eyes closed when life-casting your head, as they serve as your most critical window into reality.
To maximize your efficiency during this window, try to keep your eyes shut as much as possible and work quickly and carefully. Doing so will allow you to get the most out of each hour spent working in the studio.
9. Keep Your Clay Flat
No matter if you’re working with air-dry clay or oil-based clay, smoothing out imperfections is essential. Various tools – both those purchased and those found around your home – can assist in this task.
For example, a small sponge or soft watercolour brush can be used to smooth out imperfections in air-dry clay. A 100-percent cotton rag dipped in isopropyl alcohol can also be applied to oil-based clays for smoothing purposes.
10. Keep Your Hands Open
One of the most essential steps you can take for your craft is keeping your hands open. You’ll be amazed at how much more relaxed you will feel once your fingers get some air.
Making art will allow you to stand out from the rest and have more fun while creating. Plus, why not show off some of your latest creations at a party?
