Ongoing Course, Open to Everyone

This course will demonstrate how to make your own dollmaking tools out of found objects and common household items.
Media Category: Mixed Media
Course Type: Self-directed (refer to the FAQ page for full descriptions of each course type)
Special Category:  Free
Course Format: Demonstration
Content Available: Ongoing, open to Everyone
Course Duration: Video duration: one hour

What will Students learn? Students will learn how to make a pair of clay-sculpting tools out of a bamboo skewer using minimal supplies (wire-nippers, pencil, sandpaper)
Instructor/Students interaction: Answer questions via emails
Skill Level: All levels welcome
Required skill(s): No special skills required.

Supplies and tools: 12" (31cm) bamboo skewer(s), wire-nippers, pencil, sandpaper/emery boards
Downloads: One 53-minute video and a corresponding 14-page PDF with illustrated time-stamps.

Course Curriculum

    1. WELCOME!!!

    1. Origin Story: Gratification Delayed... Mind Blown... Discipline Sown

    1. Two Essential Clay-Sculpting Tools from a Bamboo Skewer

    1. Materials List + Notes for Spool-Knitter

    2. Materials List + Notes for Spool-Knitter PDF

    3. Introduction: Knitting on a Spool

    4. Traditional Solid Wooden Spool-Knitter

    5. Variation: Using Styrofoam Spools

    6. Variation: Hollow/Chambered Plastic Spool-Knitters

    7. Variation: Modified Cardboard Tube Spool-Knitters

    8. Thanks for Joining Me!

    1. More resources for you

    2. Before you go...

About this course

  • Free
  • 13 lessons
  • 3.5 hours of video content

Instructor

Connie Smith

Ceramic & Air-Dry Clays - Wax - Mixed Media

A third-generation artist, I’ve sculpted clay and experimented with basic hand-sewing techniques since early childhood. I studied Ceramic Arts and Printmaking at the University of Memphis, and took intermittent night courses in Animation at NYU during a decade in New York City. I have been an Artist Member of the National Institute of American Doll Artists since 1996, having taught many live workshops through NIADA’s Dollmaking School, and served on the Board since 2015. My style incorporates anthropomorphic character hybrids, and endeavors towards eco-friendly, sustainable practices with materials, which I try to encourage in my students. Welcome!

VISIT: Connie Smith Portfolio

Courses by Connie Smith