A very easy mosaic project that is enjoyable for all ages. Even very young children will enjoy pressing objects into the moist clay.

Grade Levels

K–5

Preparation

1. Cover table with canvas, unprimed side up, to keep clay from sticking to the table. Tape the two rulers 10 inches apart on top the canvas. Keep parallel.
2. Unwrap the block of clay. Mark approximately 1/4" guide dots on top (smaller side). Use nylon cutting tool to slice a small slab of clay for each student. Set aside. Keep a damp cloth over the clay until it's ready to be used

Procedure

1. Place one cut slab between rulers. Use the rolling pin to flatten and even out the clay. Roll over the clay using the rulers as a thickness guide. Use a coffee can lid as a template for cutting a circle, or use the rulers to cut a square shape.
2. Arrange tiles in a pattern, setting gently on top the clay to position. Once you've decided the pattern is ready, press each tile into the clay about halfway.
3. If you wish to add a wire hanger, turn tile over very gently. Form a loop with the wire, insert ends gently into back of tile. Use scrap clay to secure. Gently turn tile back over to dry.

Hints

• Working on canvas helps clay release
• Dried clay is sturdy, but will not hold up to water (not a good coaster)
• Tile may not lay completely flat when dry

Topics for Discussion

1. Look at sample mosaics from ancient Greece, Italy, Mexico, etc.
2. Discuss mosaics as an art medium. What are the benefits in creating with mosaics? What are it's shortcomings?
3. Have students think of, or bring in other objects that can be used to create mosaics. For example, pasta or dried beans.

National Standards

Content Standard #1 — Understanding and applying media, techniques and processes

K-4 Students use art materials and tools in a safe and responsible manner

Content Standard #4 — Understanding the visual arts in relation to history and culture

K-4 Students demonstrate how history, culture and the visual arts can influence each other in making and studying works of art

Content Standard #5 — Reflecting upon and assessing the characteristics and merits of their work and the work of others

K-4 Students understand there are various purposes for creating works of visual art