Original Sculpey® Terra Cotta Monster

Getting Started:

Please make sure your work area is covered and you are not working on an unprotected surface. We recommend working on the Sculpey® Oven Safe Work Mat, wax paper, metal baking sheet, or disposable foil. Uncured clay may damage unprotected furniture or finished surfaces. Be sure to cover your crafting area appropriately.

Start with clean hands, unwrap and knead clay until soft and smooth, or condition by running clay though a Pasta Machine. We recommend using a designated machine for clay purposes only. When working with multiple colors, clean hands with soap and water or baby wipes (we have found that baby wipes work best) before switching colors. Shape clay, pressing pieces firmly together. Wash hands after use.

Baking:

Begin by preheating oven to 275 °F (130 °C). After you are done creating; for best results bake clay on an oven-proof surface such metal, aluminum foil, an index card or the Sculpey® Oven Safe Work Mat at 275°F (130 °C) for 15 minutes per 1/4" (6 mm) thickness according to package directions. Oven safe glass or ceramic surfaces are also acceptable for baking; however please note that the baking times may take longer as the glass or ceramic surfaces take longer to heat up. For best baking results, use an oven thermometer. DO NOT USE MICROWAVE OVEN. DO NOT EXCEED THE ABOVE TEMPERATURE OR RECOMMENDED BAKING TIME. BAKING SHOULD BE DONE BY AN ADULT.

Roll a large ball approximately 2 ¼1/4” in diameter. Push your thumb in the center and start to form a pinch pot for the monster’s body. Squish the opening down to make an oval shaped mouth. Fan out the lips a bit and smooth.

Roll a 1” sized ball for the tongue. Roll into and oval and flatten. Using your Etch and Pearl tool’s pointed end make a line down the center of the tongue and then make little indented dots on the tongue to look like taste buds. Attach the tongue on the inside of the mouth making it so that it drapes a little over the lower lip.

Roll two 1” balls of the clay for the flipper like pieces on the side of the body. Make them into triangle shapes and flatten. Using the end of your paintbrush make five or so indentations at the top and then running down each flipper so they look a little like a fan or a shell. Attach one to either side of the body. Marry and smooth all seams so they become one with the body.

Bake according to package directions and allow to cool completely. Paint your monster as you like. Allow to dry completely. **Optional: Paint on a coat of matte Varathane polyurethane to complete if desired.