Posters, leaflets and Flannel boards are all very helpful for teaching groups about all kinds of different subjects. A few people are gifted artists who can draw anything. Most of us are definitely not – we struggle to draw anything that others will recognise! Sometimes we can copy or enlarge pictures to use. But what can we do if we have no suitable drawings to copy from?
Maybe an extension worker wants to show a farmer in various positions – stooping, bending or planting. Or a health worker needs to show a woman giving birth or breast-feeding while seated. Even if there is no original picture to copy, this model figure makes it possible to produce good drawings. The model gives you the correct proportions of a human figure and lets you adjust it to show any position.
To view model figure click here (PDF, 42K)
Directions
- Cut the various body parts out carefully. If possible, photocopy the page so you don’t need to cut up your issue of Footsteps. It is a good idea to glue the paper to cardboard or thin plastic to make it stronger. It may also be possible for carpenters to use thin plywood if they have a jigsaw.
- Connect the pieces with needle and thread, making sure the letters on the pieces match. The needle and thread should go through the dots near each letter. Make knots in the thread on each side of the paper. The knots should be large enough not to pull through easily. Make sure each joint can move easily. Do not use stitches or the model will not be movable.
- Once you have finished the model you can now arrange it in any position. The model can move in ways that people cannot, so make sure the model is always arranged in positions your own body can make!
- Lightly draw or trace around the model onto a piece of paper. You will need at least one other person to help you keep the model in place. Alternatively, you may find a piece of glass or clear plastic will hold the model in position. The model can be turned to face left or right.
- Once the outline is finished you can be creative! Add hair and clothing, make the figure into a man or woman, young or old. Use a permanent marker to finish the drawing. We show two examples to give you some ideas.
We hope you enjoy using your model. We are grateful to World Neighbours for letting us adapt this article which appeared in Volume 19-3E of In Action. Maybe you could send us a photo if you use your model to make successful posters or booklets!