Welcoming Cat Sculpture

Welcoming Cat Sculpture craft

Create a hospitable feline of Model Magic® in the Japanese style. Discover the tradition behind this appealing figurine that welcomes guests.

  • 1.

    Do you like to eat in Japanese restaurants? You may have noticed in stores or restaurants owned by Japanese people a statue of a cat waving you to come inside. Maneki Neko is the name of this welcoming cat. The figure has been a popular sentinel for more than 200 years.

  • 2.

    Roll a large handful of white Crayola Model Magic into a ball and shape it into an upright cat's body. Attach two short coils to the body for back legs. Attach another coil as a front leg to help balance the cat. Shape a fourth coil into the raised front leg with bent paw. Air dry 24 hours.

  • 3.

    With Crayola Fine Line Markers, draw the cat's yellow eyes, red ears, and whiskers, claws, and perhaps brown and black spots. Add a colorful collar.

  • 4.

    Sometimes the welcoming cat holds gold or silver coins in its front paw. Use Crayola Glitter Glue to add the sparkling gold or silver highlights. Air dry.

  • 5.

    Place your Maneki Neko on a windowsill or shelf where people enter your house or room. Your little ambassador will welcome your company.