Art ideas for disabilities

Clay cutter made with fishing line

Tips for working with clay:

If the clay is to be kiln (bisc) fired, it is important to ensure that air bubbles are not captured in the clay, as bubbles may cause a piece to explode in firing. Purchased clay is bubble free. Excessive manipulation of clay may cause it to dry out and be more likely to trap air.
Clay activities (1 - 8) in this section may be introduced sequentially. Activities 9 - 10 are not sequenced.
All activities should be undertaken with full verbal instruction and demonstrations ie. in activity 1 (Introducing clay), children must hear and see clearly each action with the clay.
If clay is to be bisc fired, it must air dry for about 10 days and can be turned over every 2 - 3 days to assist drying. After bisc firing, it is then ready to be painted with glaze and glaze fired.
Clay is best cut with fishing line, as in the picture (look carefully), left. Pull the line tight and slice through the clay.

A note about firing clay

It is not necessary to fire clay. However, unfired clay will not last whereas fired clay will last forever, has a great look and can be glazed with brilliant colours. If it is conceivably possible to fire the clay works, do it. Many schools (especially secondary schools) have kilns. Some community houses have kilns and the re are commercial firing services available. Try the schools first!

Clay Activities

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