Ravens, part 5: Claws

Claws are made of polymer clay. Continue reading to view the entire process

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March 20, 2019: I start by rolling polymer clay into a long tube.

Cut the cube into small pieces.

​Shape the clay pieces into pointy claws.

Push claws onto the ends of the toes.

Bake the feet according to the directions on the clay packaging, and then let cool.

Here are the feet after baking.

For a secure hold, glue the baked claws to the toes.

Let the glue cure for 24 hours.

Once the claws are securely attached, add a few drops of glue at the bottom of the brass tube. Allow to cure overnight. (I use a clip keeps the toes from shifting around while the glue sets.)

Here are the feet after the glue has dried.

Now glue a large bead at the top of the brass tube to create an ankle joint. Let the glue cure for a few hours.

Here are the feet with ankle joints.

Paint the claws. I used two coats of metallic platinum nail lacquer, followed by a top coat of clear nail polish. Allow to dry between each coat.

Here's a closeup of the painted claws. The entire claw-making process took three days. I'll let the glue and paint continue to dry overnight. Tomorrow I'll start wrapping and painting the legs, another three-day process. (Are you beginning to understand why it takes so long to make these birds?

Ravens, Part 1: Finding Inspiration
Ravens, Part 2: Feathers
Ravens, Part 3: Making lace for the head and neck
Ravens, Part 4: Starting on the legs
Ravens, Part 5: Claws
Ravens, Part 6: Legs
​Ravens, Part 7: Building the body
Ravens, Part 8: Beaks
​Ravens, Part 9: Attaching the legs
Ravens, Part 10: The exoskeleton
Ravens, Part 11: Feathers and Lace
Ravens, Part 12: Finally finished!

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