Page 20 - Creating Whimsical Characters Using Simple Wood and Paper Forms, Wire, Paperclay, and Encaustic Medium

The second

page has more
complex wing
patterns.

These require

more complex

folds and a lot
of trial and
error when

designing the
patterns.

• I use printer paper to sketch one side of the wings, then fold it in

half and cut out the pattern.

• Then I fold one of the wings to see if they really look the way I
want and if they are scaled to the correct size. They usually aren’t

correct the first time, but don’t give up. Apply what you’ve
learned to the second attempt, and eventually you’ll get the result

you are looking for.

• The key is to only fold one side. That way you can use the
unfolded side to draw your pattern on card stock.

• Use your card stock pattern and a permanent marker to trace

your pattern on the wire mesh. Be sure to put cardboard (with
wax paper on top) underneath the wire when you’re tracing your

pattern. This will help to avoid black marks on the table.

• I usually wear inexpensive white cotton gloves when working with
wire. They protect your hands and provide padding for bending
wire with your hands. I also use a small dowel or skewer to help

with the bending.

20