How to make a clay nature tile

Here’s how to make a nature tile out of clay with easy to follow, child friendly, step by step instructions. This project could be used alongside nature topics or just as something fun to make! Ideal as part of an art day/art week.

Suitable for children aged 8 and upwards including SEN children and any child needing additional support. This also works well for forest schools.

There are three videos included in this resource, how to make a nature tile, a slightly different version of how to make a nature tile and a speeded up version of how to paint the finished model.

The powerpoint is split into two parts (due to file size). The first part is how to make the base and the leaves for the background, the second part is how to make the flower.

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

Suggestions for variations are shown plus step by step instructions for decorating the finished model after it has dried. This project can also work as a one to one activity or in small groups.

What you need:
clay
pencils
lolly sticks
strips of cardboard
pots of slip or water
paintbrushes
acrylic paints

What you get:
Powerpoint step by step instructions - ‘I can make a nature tile part 1.’
Powerpoint step by step instructions - ‘I can make a nature tile part 2.’
Powerpoint step by step instructions - ‘I can make a nature tile variations.’
Powerpoint step by step instructions - ‘How to paint your nature tile’
Video showing how to make a nature tile
Video showing how to make a slightly different nature tile
Video showing how to paint a nature tile
Video showing how to make four basic shapes
Video showing how to press your clay flat

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.