Grade 1 Creative Arts Modelling – Pinch method and coiling technique Notes
Modelling — Pinch Method and Coiling Technique
For Young Artists (Age 6) — Kenya
Today we will learn two easy ways to make pots and bowls from clay or playdough: the pinch method and the coiling technique. These make simple bowls, cups and small decorations. Use clay or safe playdough you can get at home or in school.
Learning Goals
- Make a small bowl using the pinch method.
- Make a coil pot using rolled “snakes” of clay.
- Learn to keep clay soft and to join pieces safely.
Materials
- Clay or playdough (small amount)
- Small bowl of water and a damp cloth
- A flat board or plate to work on
- Plastic straw or blunt stick (for smoothing)
- Optional: beads, seeds, small shells for decorating
Safety Tips
- Do not put clay in your mouth — keep it for making art only.
- Wash hands after play.
- Keep the clay covered so it does not dry out.
Pinch Method (Make a bowl)
- Roll clay into a smooth ball the size of an orange.
- Hold the ball in one hand. Press your thumb into the middle to make a hole.
- Use your thumb and fingers to gently pinch the sides — turn and pinch all around.
- Make the walls the same thickness — not too thin. Smooth with a little water.
- Decorate with simple marks or press a bead on the rim.
Coiling Technique (Make a coil pot)
- Roll clay into a long "snake" (a coil) with your hands.
- Make a flat disk for the base (press a ball flat with your palm).
- Place the coil on the edge of the base and press gently so it joins.
- Keep adding coils on top and press the joins with a little water to stick them.
- Smooth the outside with your finger or a damp stick for a neat look.
Fun Classroom Activity (20–30 minutes)
- Give each child a small piece of clay. Ask half the class to make a pinch pot and the other half to make a coil pot.
- After 10 minutes, swap pots so each child can decorate a friend’s work with beads or leaf prints.
- Show and tell: each child says one sentence about their pot (“My pot is red and small. I made it by pinching.”)
Teacher Notes
- Use playdough for easy cleanup and no baking. If using real clay, follow school kiln/fire rules.
- Encourage children to feel the clay — the touch helps fine motor skills.
- Show step-by-step with one child at the front so others can copy.
Assessment (Simple)
Ask each child to show their pot and answer three short questions:
- Which method did you use? (Pinch or Coil)
- Can you show where you joined the clay? (Point to the join)
- Did you keep the clay wet or dry? (Wet — with water on a cloth)
Quick Reminder for Parents:
Making with clay helps your child's fingers grow stronger and learns them to follow steps. Keep small beads away from very young children unless supervised.
🖐️ Have fun making! 🌿