I’m working on clay dragon scales. My original idea was for a shield-shaped scale that was very simple a la the 1981 film The Dragonslayer (yes, I’m working on a replica of that scale too).  But instead I went with a more intricate design.  I wanted these scales to have a very aggressive look, as well as a natural look.  The scale’s design is recursive like a bird’s feathers.  When finished, these scales will be glazed and painted in all manner of colors.

Here is my original sculpt:

I scanned it using my 3D scanner / mill and shrunk it by about 30%. I then milled it out of renshape and my friend Jane created clay push molds. [Photos coming soon.]

Here are the clay pieces waiting to be bisque fired:

And here are some close-up photos of the scales:

They stack really well (just like real scales!):