Totem Pole

Air dry clay is the perfect medium for making 3D Native American totem poles.

Totem Pole

Skill Level

Intermediate

Time to Make

1 hour + drying time

Adult Supervision Needed

Yes

How to Make

  1. Take a large section of air-dry clay and roll it into a cylindrical shape, approximately 15cm tall.
  2. Take a smaller amount of clay and roll it into a long thin roll, then wrap it around the middle of the totem pole.
  3. Repeat step 2 two more times, wrapping it around the top and bottom of the clay.
  4. Create two wing shapes out of clay and stick them to the back of the totem pole.
  5. Use small sections of clay to create the details, such as the facial features and other markings, and stick them to the totem pole. Then leave the clay to dry.
  6. Once the clay is fully dry, paint it in acrylic paints. Painting the details in contrasting colours.
  7. Use a smaller paintbrush to paint details and decorations onto the totem pole.
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Top Tip

Leave the clay to dry overnight to make sure it is completely dry before painting.

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