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How to Make Fossil Imprints With Clay & Objects

Paleontologists work with fossil imprints on a regular basis, uncovering the origins of these ancient organisms. Creating fossil imprints with children is an excellent way to teach them about the changing ecosystems and the process of fossilization. With a few simple items, such as modeling clay and hard objects, such as seashells or blocks, children can create their own fossil imprints to take home to their parents.

Modeling clay
Paper plate
Petroleum jelly
Hard objects, such as seashells or twigs

Instructions

- 1
  Place a small handful of modeling clay on a paper plate. Press the clay flat to create a small slab of rather even clay.
- 2
  Place an even layer of petroleum jelly on the side of the object you want to imprint. For example, apply the jelly along the entire outside of the seashell, or on the whole body of the twig.
- 3
  Press the object firmly into the modeling clay slab, remaining careful not to press through to the paper plate. Carefully, and slowly, peel the object back from the modeling clay.
- 4
  Repeat these steps with a few more objects around the first object, if you have room on your slab. Allow the modeling clay to dry in a clean, warm area for about a day or so.

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