Tar paper project

Since fall quarter, 2009, I had added the tar paper as one of our projects.
Susanne learned this fun, easy, and quick technique from other workshops. Therefore, she was designated as the instructor for this project.



1. the selection of the tar paper needs to be the thickest kind, often used for roofing not for sidings.
2. sketch a three dimensional form, and make a paper template for the form.
3. trace the paper template over the tar paper, no worries if the lines are rough. cut out the tar paper shapes.
4. roll out clay slabs, spay with water on both the tar paper and clay.
5. place the tar paper shapes on the clay, and roll them onto it with a roller till the tar paper inlaid in the clay.
6. cut the clay in 45 degree angle, inward.
7. bring the forms together and pinch the seams hard till the edges of the tar paper meet (the seams can be scored or without, depending on your preference).
8. peel the tar paper off when the clay is stiff enough to free stand. shape, refine, or alter as you like.

The rest of the pictures are the works from students who tried this new technique.
Questions are welcome.