How to Make a 3D Model of a Toucan

The toucan's distinctive beak is it's most famous feature.
The toucan's distinctive beak is it's most famous feature. (Image: Comstock/Comstock/Getty Images)

Toucans are tropical birds easily identifiable by their large, brightly colored bills. The birds' bright hues, loud calls and unique appearance makes toucans a favorite subject for artists and students alike. Making a model toucan is a great way to learn more about the physical structure and unique coloration of the bird.

Things You'll Need

  • Newspaper
  • Masking tape
  • Glue
  • Large bowl
  • Paintbrush
  • Acrylic paints
  • Sand paper

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Scrunch up a few sheets of newspaper into an oval shape to form the base for the toucan's body. Create a smaller ball for the head, and a large wedge shape for the beak. Tape all of the pieces together using masking tape. Don't worry about making it look perfect; this frame will be covered soon.

Mix equal parts of glue and water in the large bowl. Cover your work surface if desired to catch any drips or spills. Tear or cut the newspaper into varying size strips.

Paint a newspaper strip with the glue and water mixture and press it onto your toucan frame, smoothing the strip as you go. Repeat until the entire toucan is covered, building up sections as desired to create a smooth look. Let your model dry completely, which will take about 24 hours.

Sand the model to create a smooth surface. Paint the toucan using the acrylic paints. If you want a realistic look for your model, use a photo of a toucan as a reference to select the correct colors.


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