The clay handmade of the Meishan dragon
How to make the 2021 Nine Palaces Year of the Dragon Clay
Every year, the zodiac clay works are a popular project for handicraft enthusiasts, and the dragon is even more popular as a mascot in traditional Chinese culture. So, how to make the 2021 Nine Palaces Year of the Dragon Clay? Here's a breakdown of the steps and tips.
Prepare the materials：
Before making clay for the Year of the Dragon, you need to prepare basic tools such as clay, blades, molds, and cylindrical pens. In addition, in order to increase the color richness of the work, it is also possible to prepare some clay of different colors.
Steps:：
1. Knead the clay of the base color to create the main part of the dragon. You can use molds or handmade to make the shape fuller and more three-dimensional.
2. Mix red and yellow clay to make small beads that serve as a decoration for the dragon's scales. The details can make your work more distinctive.
3. Use a blade or roller to trench the main part, embedding the small beads made earlier, just like real scales.
4. Add more details like eyes, nose, etc. Color and decorate according to the situation to make the work more vivid and realistic.
5. Bond into a mold, let it stand for a while and wait for the clay to dry slightly, and then the final product can be presented.
Tips and tricks：
In order to get the best out of the Year of the Dragon clay, you need to focus on the following points: the proportions of the clay (no water or oil), multiple kneading to ensure a gradient effect, tool skills (using sticks to shape the curved dragon body), and the proper application of a single color (all parts can be left for a long time once completed).
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Whether you're a first-time maker or a seasoned puppetmaker, meticulous craftsmanship and a patient attitude are the keys to success. Hopefully, the above sharing will help you create a one-of-a-kind Year of the Dragon clay piece that will bring good luck and joy to families and individuals in 2021. Enjoy the creative process!