Clay Fish

All of my students seem to love clay projects. This is a great and easy project for beginning clay students. I have taught it to two 7th grade classes this year, and both times it has been very successful.

To make these clay fish, start with 2 pinch pots. Score and slip them together and carve out a mouth on one end. Then, roll out slabs, cut out your fins, and score and slip those on. After the fins, decide on what type of eyes you want. The rule goes, if the clay is thicker than your thumb, it will not survive the bisque fire. So, for the students who want jumbo eyes, instruct them to make the eyes hollow on the inside. Once all of the fins and features are added, carve out textures (stripes, spots, scales) using modeling tools or toothpicks. Finally, carve your initials on the bottom side of your fish, let it completely dry out in the closet, and bisque fire.

These fish would look good with either glaze or paint. I have used paint this year, just because paints lend themselves to more vibrant colors. Seal all of the paint with a clear coat for extra durability.