Early Years Resources offers a great range of modelling materials for children to use for constructing 3D art including clay and plasticine for modelling and various tools to help the modelmaking process. Our 3D art materials are suitable for preschools, primary schools, nurseries, playgroups, out-of-school clubs and home settings.
Our range of 3D modelling supplies includes a mixture of modelling dough and modelling clay from brands such as Modroc and Playdoh, air hardening clays, paper mache power and a host of other tools. Our 3D art materials selection also includes polystyrene figures, masks, plant pots and wooden craft items.
Your little ones can explore new materials, inquire about their functions and discover what they can do with these materials as they navigate making models in 3D, all whilst developing their creative and open-ended thinking abilities.
Why not let your children create unique patterns in their 3D modelling materials with our mark making tools which range from pattern paint rollers to rolling pins and stamps!
FAQ’s About Modelling Materials:
What materials are used for modelling?
There are a variety of materials for modelling that are safe and suitable for children to use. Some of these materials can be made on your own, or purchased in our category. These include:
- Play Dough - soft and easy for children to mold. You can even make your own at home using flour, salt, water and food colouring.
- Air-Dry Clay - This is great for pottery or creating solid structures, it can simply be left out to dry and harden without the use of baking techniques.
- Polymer Clay - This is the type of clay that requires baking in an oven to harden. It can come in a variety of colours and be used to create intricate designs.
- Salt Dough - made from a mixture of salt, flour and water. Can be baked to harden and then painted over.
- Paper Mache - Made using strips of newspaper and a glue/water mix, paper mache can be used to create 3D models over a balloon or wireframe.
- Plasticine - Similar to play dough, this type of dough does not harden and dry. It is an oil-based modelling material.
- Kinetic Sand - this is sand that sticks together. This allows children to more easily mold and shape it compared to regular sand.
- Beads and Pipe Cleaners - these materials are great for creating frames or 3D designs and structures.
- Foam Shapes - children can use pre-cut foam shapes to create 3D structures.
- Silly Putty or Slime - this is a more liquid style of modelling material. This is great for adding an element of sensory development to your arts & craft modelling sessions.
- Felt and Fabric Scraps - these can be cut, shaped and sewn together for a range fo creative projects.
- Edible Materials - these include marshmallows, pretzel sticks and gumdrops. These are great to include if your child is still prone to putting objects in their mouth.
What are the types of tools used for modelling?
There are a ton of different tools that can be used during modelling activities to create different patterns and shapes. The types of tools you’ll want to use will depend on the type of material you are working with, however below are some great recommendations that are suitable for children:
- Cutting tools - safety scissors, plastic clay cutters
- Rolling tools - child-friendly rolling pins or rolling pins with patterns
- Shaping tools - modelling sticks and cookie cutters
- Texturing tools - stamps, texture sheets, toothbrushes, combs or forks
- Binding and joining tools - kids safe glue, tape, pipe cleaners
- Measurement tools - rulers
- Safety tools - craft mats to help protect surfaces and make clean-up easier
- Finishing tools- paintbrushes
- Miscellaneous tools - tweezers, sponges and aprons
