Clay sculpting tool info needed

[Garthok]

I have just discovered that I am really enjoying my first attempt at sculpting, nothing that would come anywhere near the talent on here. But I am having fun.

What I need is some info on what would be a good set of tools for general work, with thoughts of attempting a bust eventually.

I have searched the net and now I am even more confused. I do not know whether to get the Dental, Wire, Hardwood or the Clay shaper tools.

I have seen a set of tools on eBay consisting of 47 wax and dental tools for a reasonable amount, would something like that be a good start?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Cheers

Glenn

If this is in the wrong forum could a mod please move it.

 

[JtotheP]

You'll find that 75% of the time your thumb and fingers are the most used tools. Everyone has a different style and preference and you'll find yours soon. My Favorite tools are the soft wire tools, wood tools and suran wrap. Suran wrap can be used with final detailing. You place the suran wrap over the clay with no wrinkles in the plastic and carve into the clay the detail you want with a soft wire tool or rounded wood detailing tool. The suran wrap keeps the clay from folding and pulling out of place and leaves a perfect smooth line in the clay. You can also play around with different texture stamps and sponges to leave slight texture impressions in the clay, if the sculpt calls for it. I hope that helps.

 

[clonesix]

If you are just starting out, you can make your own tools by bending your own loops of wire and attaching them to a handle. You will learn which tools will work best for different sculpts.

I am quite fond of the steel kidney, and the serrated kidney.

 

[Fetthunter]

I got all of my tools here. The Basic Tool Set and the Mini Ribbon Tools are good for beginners, as they give you lots of options.

 

[Garthok]

Thanks for all that info. I tried the suran wrap (is that like cling wrap for covering things in the fridge?) and was surprised at how well it works, and I have been using my thumb etc, but I put it down to having a lack of tools.

I will also have a go at making a few tools too, would MIG wire be ok or do you need stainless?.

Are there any sculpting books you can recommend?

Thanks for the link too, a lot of useful info on that site.

 

[fettster]

i make my tools ot of hack saw blades. cut them to size, heat them up, make them into loop and you have a loop tool and rake in one

 

[Force Commander]

I actually found some good tools at Menard's. They are basically the dentist tool type, and they do good job for very little money. Aside from that, follow the advice here of making your own. It can be very rewarding.

 

[franz bolo]

You can ask your dentist if he has any old tools to give you. I got about 10 really great tools from mine!

FB

 

[rebel scum]

I recently got some tools from here:

http://drbanksensteinfx.com/sculpting_tools.htm

Really good tools.

Chris

 

[chris08234]

I know the chain craft places sell some very inexpensive sets. Check out an AC Moore or Michaels for the cheapos.

 

[SgtFang]

This set is a little pricey, but well worth it for final finishing-

http://www.sculpturehouse.com/detail.aspx?ID=16

I use #608 and 611 quite a bit!

-Sarge

 

[Garthok]

Do you have a pic of that fettster? I want to whip one up and seeing the size and shape would help.

i make my tools ot of hack saw blades. cut them to size, heat them up, make them into loop and you have a loop tool and rake in one

 

[Garthok]

Thanks Sgt, I tried there but they are closing up for a couple of weeks, and of course I want something now.

This set is a little pricey, but well worth it for final finishing-

http://www.sculpturehouse.com/detail.aspx?ID=16

I use #608 and 611 quite a bit!

-Sarge

 

[Tim Allen]

dental tools work wonders