How to make a clay snowman

Here’s how to make a snowman out of clay with video demonstrations and easy to follow, child friendly, step by step instructions. This project can be used alongside Christmas or winter topics or just as something fun to make! If you are a forest school you could have a separate activity for the children looking for small twigs for the arms. Ideal as part of an art day/art week.

There are three versions to chooses from:

Snowman
Snowman with a scarf
Snowman with a scarf and hat

The snowman is suitable for children aged 5 and upwards, the other two versions are suitable for children aged 7 and upwards including SEN children and any child needing additional support. If you are new to clay, allow a whole afternoon to make this project if you can. I have made this project with children in Year 1 and would suggest making it in small groups at a time.

This project is made using three basic shapes, a ball, a bean and a sausage shape. There is also a video included demonstrating how to make these shapes.

This project can also work as a one to one activity or in small groups.

What you need:
clay
pencils
lolly sticks
pots of slip or water
paintbrushes
acrylic paints
small twigs for the arms

What you get:
Powerpoint step by step instructions - ‘I can make a snowman’
Powerpoint step by step instructions - ‘I can make a snowman with a scarf’
Powerpoint step by step instructions - ‘I can make a snowman with a scarf and a hat’
Powerpoint step by step instructions - ‘How to paint your snowman’
Powerpoint step by step instructions - ‘How to paint your snowman with a scarf’
Powerpoint step by step instructions - ‘How to paint your snowman with a scarf and a hat’
Video showing how to make a snowman
Video showing how to make a snowman with a scarf
Video showing how to make a snowman with a scarf and a hat
Video showing how to make four basic shapes (ignore the carrot shape)

Information for teachers:
How the projects work
Things you will need
Lesson plan
Preparing for your workshop (including tips for decorating)
Health and Safety
How to recycle your clay
Handling clay
Looking after your clay
Certificate of Achievement

These projects help children learn and practice basic skills which can then be used to create their own projects and enhance their own creativity. Although your children are making the same project, they will all look different.