If you’re going to start sculpting, you need some tools! While some tools work better on others, I’m going to cover a few basics here!
First, if you’re doing any sort of crafting, get yourself an Exacto. They can be basic to nice and padded and the first one you buy should come with extra blades. Buy another set though as you’ll want to be able to change them out anytime you’re doing precision work. This allows much more control than scissors or a box cutter.
Next, if you’re just starting out I’m going to be honest- get the cheap tools. I still have tools from the $5 plastic set that I use. You can see a few of them below. This will let you see on the cheap what shapes and types you like.
Usually at craft stores you can also find wooden sets like the below. Wooden sets can be prone to absorbing oils and are best used with only similar types of clay.
If you’re upgrading in the tools you have, you can go with plastic topped sculpting tools. These have some give to them, so are really nice for gentle shaping and smoothing. I’ve been very fond of mine. These are Royal Sovereign brand and should be listed as clay shapers.
If you’re going to be doing a lot of subtraction sculpting- digging out bits of clay- you’ll want some of the loop tools. They can come in a great deal of different shapes and sizes. You can also make your own (something I’ve yet to foray into). They are prone to falling apart though.
If you’ve got large chunks to carve off you may want a wire cutter. Or when in doubt, just an old knife.
If you’re working with clay that can be smoothed with water, acetone, or alcohol you’ll probably want some sponges and brushes. Synthetic sponges are best with only water but are smoother. Natural sponges are great for texture. Brushes are good for detail places.
Another option for smoothing are rubber or metal tools. Again, size and shape varies greatly. Some of these are from the painting section but still work great here.
And last but not least as a larger investment, if you’re working with finished/hard pieces, is a Dremel. These things are love and come with all sorts of attachments. The can sand, carve, cut, drill- all the things! I could probably write a whole post on Dremels alone!
So that’s a very brief overview of some sculpting tools! I hope this and my other tutorials help you get started! If people are interested, I may try a little follow along tutorial sometime soon.
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