Fun with Modeling Clay (Kids Can Do It)

Internationally recognized artist Barbara Reid reveals her secrets for turning lumps of modeling clay into fun, fantastic pictures and characters of all kinds. Easy-to-follow illustrated instructions in this book in the Kids Can Do It series show kids how to make a zoo full of animals, a rocket launch pad, a 3-D prehistoric dinosaur hangout -- and much more! All they need to get started is some modeling clay (any kind will do), a few easy-to-find tools, a good imagination and these helpful tips from an expert.

Gr. 1^-4. After assembling everyday household items to use as tools, children can roll modeling clay into balls, pancakes, and snakes. From such basic beginnings, youngsters are guided in step-by-step progression to create bugs, birds, cats, dogs, humans, and more. Just as Ed Emberley's drawing books lead novice artists on to ever more complex combinations of simple lines and circles, so Reid builds on the fundamentals until young sculptors are fashioning hockey players, fruit baskets, cars and trains, underwater and outer space scenes, and limitless other creations from lumps of clay. Colorful photographs of finished clay projects combine with inviting art that simulates clay's colors and texture as it demonstrates the lucidly outlined procedures. Aptly titled, this guide is sure to lead children into much fun with modeling clay. Ellen Mandel