CleverPatch™ recommends educators, teachers and event organisers work in consultation with their local Aboriginal Communities (start locally and extend out geographically) when planning activities & learning experiences. Any creative or art making activity that mirrors or replicates Aboriginal cultural experiences should always be undertaken in consultation with the appropriate owners of that cultural property.

Some materials and products may contain terms that reflect authors' views, both current or past. These views may not be considered appropriate today and are provided in a historical context. These views are not necessarily the views of CleverPatch.

Step 1 Cut a piece of clay around 7 x 1.5cm. Use tools and water to mould the clay into the shape of a bird's body and beak. Make sure the body is around 1cm thick.
Step 2 Mould another piece of clay into a flat circular shape measuring 1.5cm thick and 4.5cm in diameter. This will act as the base for your bird to stand on.
Step 3 Use two small pieces of clay and flatten to 5mm thick. Then use tools to cut out two triangles from each of the pieces of clay. These will be the birds feet.
Step 4 Use a small amount of water to stick the bird's feet to the base. You may also wish to use a small amount of water to help smooth the surfaces.
Step 5 Cut a dowel in half and place both of the pieces into the clay base, behind the bird's feet.
Step 6 Add small pieces of clay behind the dowels and smooth out to secure them in place. Then gently place your birds body onto the top of the wooden dowels and leave to air dry.
Step 7 Paint your bird in bright colours. Look to the story for inspiration when adding colour to your project. Allow to dry.
Step 8 Use a hot glue gun to glue feathers to the back of your bird. Adult supervision is recommend when using a hot glue gun. Allow to dry.
Step 9 Use skewers and acrylic paint to dot paint the base of your design. These birds can be decorated in a number of ways. Use the steps above as a decorative guide and mix up the techniques to create a unique combination of your own!