Armature Calculator — Sculpture Wire Framework

For small figures (under 30 cm), 1.5-2 mm aluminium wire works well. For medium figures (30-60 cm), use 2-3 mm wire. For large figures, use 3 mm wire with supporting rods. Always double or triple wrap for structural members.

A single wire bends too easily under the weight of clay. Doubling (twisting two wires together) or tripling the main structural members (spine, legs) creates a rigid armature that holds its pose. Wrap tightly with pliers.

Extend leg wires 5-10 cm below the feet and bend them at right angles. Drill holes in a wooden base and epoxy the wire ends in place. For heavy sculptures, bolt a metal flange to the base and weld the armature to it.

No — metal armatures must be removed before firing. Build the sculpture, let it firm up to leather-hard, then carefully cut it open, remove the armature, rejoin and smooth. Air-dry clay can remain on the armature.

The classical figure is 7.5 heads tall. The navel is at 4 heads, shoulders at 6.5 heads, fingertips at mid-thigh. These proportions scale to any size. Heroic figures use 8 heads tall.