Art Lesson - Pattern Design Creatures

Grade: 3rd-8th
Time: 2-4 class periods
Materials: Pencil, paper, marker/pen


In this project students follow along with the teacher and draw the outline of a creature or animal.  Then we draw lines inside the animal to create different shapes.  Within each shape students use a pen or marker to create a unique pattern that fills that specific shape.  Once all the shapes within the animals are filled in with unique patterns, we use graphite to add the shadows in/around the creature to give them a little 3D effect. 


Here's a timelapse video of the process from the teacher example:

The process is very simple and easy, but also requires patience and some thought and creativity to invent new patters.  The animals/creatures turn out well and each one looks different from the others.  I did the projet with 4th graders but, it could definitely be appropriate for higher grades as well.


Student Examples:

How to make a Clay Piggy Bank

Our signature 5th grade ceramics projects at Prairie Ridge are themed piggy banks.  Students combine two pinch pots together to create a hollow form and decorate them in unique ways.  Slots are cut at the top for the coins.  Here is a demonstration video on how to make a ceramic piggy bank:

Once the piggy banks are built, we let them dry (bone dry) and bisque fire them in the kiln.  Then students paint them with low fire glaze for the glaze firing.  The finished products look awesome!

Here are a few examples: