Help for Starting sculpture!! HELP!!

[propmaster117]

Im just starting out in sculpting, haven't had much experience so far. Just want to know what brands of clay to use, tools, techniques and which clay to use for different jobs? I really want to get into sculpting busts, for display and casting as well. I live in Australia so im not sure if all products will be available here.
Cheers

 

[13doctorwho]

If you intend to make molds you should use a non hardening modelling clay. I use plasticine. A lot of people swear by Monster clay. I use plasticine because I can get it locally at Hobby Lobby or Micheals and it's relatively cheap. If your starting out you may want to start with cheap clay in case it doesn't work out. I'm not sure what's available in your area, but most modelling clays should be good enough to start with. Just make sure you use a non hardening clay. Good luck!!

 

[Alaneye]

Hi, there is no right or wrong clay really, but some are more favourable than others. For example, if you are talking about 1:1 busts, then you probably wouldn't use a polymer clay as it's quite expensive per pound as compared to oil or water based clays. I use Super Sculpey for my half scale busts with a foil core to save on clay. I have a selection of metal tool and mini loop tools, again, there is no right or wrong... some people sculpt with a tooth pick and a butter knife and create amazing pieces. I'm currently trying out Monster Clay and getting used to the differences. Check out my threads my signature and you can follow the progress there.

Al

 

[propmaster117]

thanks for your help, thinking of making a 1:1 bust a zombie to start off with.

 

[powder monkey]

I'm only really starting out myself, but I'd suggest oil clay if you're planning on making moulds. Monster clay, as already mention is really nice to work with and you can re-use it over and over. It doesn't have sulphur in it so you make silicone moulds and not have any issues with it not setting. If you go for a cheaper clay just make sure it's sulphur free. Industrial oil clay should be available in most places, but you can practice on any sort of plasticine. As alaneye said, foil is your friend in terms of saving on expensive materials. Use it to bulk out areas and sculpt on top with clay. You should make a basic stand to sculpt on top of for a 1:1 bust, I just used a bit of 2x2 nailed to a piece of plywood.

I also find that the larger your scale the easier it is to work with. You should probably get a loop set and some basic clay/wax tools. Pretty cheap on amazon. I tend to find I only really use a few, but it's nice to have a range.

And post your progress on here!

 

[leroyo]

Hi,

If you never sculpt anything, I suggest you to begin with a small bust. Zombie is always a good start for sculpting !
Also, learn a lot about anatomy, how muscle and bones are connect together, measures,...
There are tons of information on the web about anatomy, but a book is what I prefer.

Tools can be buy or build. If you want to built them, it's easy; some wood handle and metal spatulas (shaped into forms) and your ready to go. I usually use just a few tools to sculpt and I'm able to do (almost) every effect with them (but don't be confused, I'm not a master sculptor)
I use super sculpey.

Hope it helps

 

[gregoriarts]

sculpting larger has it's challenges...It definitely doesn't hurt to start off smaller to know what your aim is...if you have a head armature that should help...otherwise you will need a lifecast of someone or have a good understanding of anatomy to help you along the way...Burman Industries sells some cool supplies...although being that you live internationally it may cost you an arm and leg to ship materials. When I work large I prefer WED Clay. I also highly recommend https://www.stanwinstonschool.com/ tutorials. Great tutorials. Good luck and have fun.