Modeling Tools

Modeling Tools for Creating With Clay
Creating beautiful objects and pieces with clay is greatly benefited using modeling tools. There are many tools to choose from including hands. Ideas for designs in clay vary between individuals. With many tools, clay possibilities are endless.

Boxwood Tools		Loop and Ribbon Tools		Needle and Sgraffito Tools		Rubber-Tipped Shaping Tools

This Week's Featured Products in Modeling Tools

	Twisted Etching Needle A crossover hit in the world of modeling, moldmaking, and sgrafitto. Solid steel, 7" (178 mm) long. Tapered point on both ends.
	Small Measures 0.3" in diameter (0.8 mm), and has a ball end that measures .045" (1.1 mm).
	Economy Tool Kit An excellent starter set that includes all of the basic potter tools: sponge, loop tool, wire clay cutters, pro needle, boxwood tool, potter's rib, ribbon tool and metal scraper. Packaged in a segmented reusable vinyl pouch.

In the following, some of the most commonly used tools in clay modeling are briefly discussed.

• Wire and wood tools are used to make fine shapes in clay. Each has a head made of wire that is individually shaped. Use these tools by softly scraping the head against surface of piece to remove unwanted clay.
• A wipe out tool is used to smooth clay that has been modeled. Tool has a slightly flexible rubber tip to blend and smooth clay. Pressure is applied to tool in order to use. It is used in the same manner as an artist’s blending stick.
• Loop tools are used in shaping walls of clay pieces. Two methods can be used in this process. It can be used to scrape thin clay layers from walls to thin them or used with a pottery wheel. With pottery wheels, tool is placed on the outside of the wall as the wheel spins. A hand is placed to the inside of the wall. Pressure is applied by hand as the tool scrapes.