Worm, In An Apple Head, On A Body, In A Box!

On reflection of the numerous posts about Worm popping up on the internet, I realise there is scant visual reference to the box itself. This post hopes to rectify that.

When I was designing the Bods, I wanted to frame them somehow. My solution was to create a box that was integral to the display of the figure. This also helped me arrive at the name Box-Bods.

So here's a picture of Worm in his natural environment.

Worm-in-the-box early prototype

Each box is numbered 1-25 and has my signature on the back. The box has 4 windows to view the figure from each angle. You can see the box net here on my "about" page. This is an early iteration of the box.

As each Worm is hand made, they have slight differences from each other. As I mix my own paint from the primary colours, I was careful that the tones were consistent. When sculpting, however, I allowed each Worm to develop it's own character, the sculpting was done by hand and not from a mould or cast.

When painting the clay figures I adapted the design, to the nuance of each shape, in the hope that each Worm has it's own charm.

The figure is secured to the base of the box with a 1cm screw that locks it firmly onto the card.

Okay, description deficit rectified.

My first Box-Bod proper: Claude

I finally completed my box design, I made the clay figures and they are dry and undercoat applied. Now it's time to have some fun. Let the painting begin!..

..Some time later, here is my first Box-Bod, all packaged up.

You will notice the inside of the box is black to add a nice contrast to the figure and the white packaging. It allows the figure and the design to stand out.

Box-Bod Claude, initial design and finished bod.

I have added details to the figure's front, sides and back so you will really enjoy looking at the figure through the windows created in the box.

You'll have to buy one to see though! Shop coming soon.

My Second Figure – Pebble Boy

Lava Kid, now let loose upon the world, is apparently living a nice life on the ocean floor near a thermal vent.

I was ready to set myself a second challenge, can I sculpt multiples of the same shape?

How to Make your Own Figures - The Clay

After my research into vinyl figures, buying a DIY Jinny and painting it, I was considering how to create my own figure.

I was at work one day, teaching the kids to sculpt with clay (being a primary school art teacher) and the idea came to me. Forget the plastic for a minute and use air drying clay to make your figures!

Jovi air drying clay is great for home modelling, not just for the kids!

Awesome, I couldn't wait to get out of the classroom and rush to the shops and buy some clay. I bought this suff (see picture) Jovi air drying clay. Jovi website here.

After some playing around with it and getting used to it's texture and properties, it's a little different from ordinary clay, I made a few figures.