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the little train that could |
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STUFF YOU'LL NEED |
Days before we built our train, our team created a clay model to check the proportions. Once on the beach, we referred to the model as we added the details to the engine. Pick a spot near the high tidemark. The sand should be fairly level. If it is not, use the metal rake to smooth an area about 2 feet by 9 feet. Set the plywood form within the level area. Wrap the nylon strap around the form to secure it while you fill it with sand. The strap makes the form stronger and allows you to compact the sand without fear of splitting the form apart. Start digging sand from an area about 6 feet away from the form. Fill the form with layers of sand and water, compacting each layer with your feet or the brick as you go. The sand should be as high as the sides of the form. Remove the form carefully. To carve the train, roughly cut out the shape of the engine with the trowel, leaving the cabin area high and reducing the height of the engine portion. Don't forget to leave some sand at the front of the engine for the steam stack. Then, begin the fine carving with your putty knife. Keep the sand wet with the spray bottle to aid in carving. Create a slight curve for the cabin roof and the round tank of the engine. |
| picture
or model of a train
flat metal rake tape measure plywood form, 1 foot by 3 feet by 1 foot high 7-foot-long nylon strap with a buckle |
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| brick
3 or more shovels 3 or more pails or buckets carving tools: trowel, putty knife, clay tools spray bottle or watering can paintbrush |
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| cargo:
8 to 10 pieces of drift wood, each one about 2 feet long, pail of shells,
plastic cars
fan rake 12 fairly straight and even sticks |
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