The document provides instructions for designing characters for a stop-motion claymation project. It outlines 5 steps: 1) gather materials, 2) review character sketches, 3) form pipe cleaner skeletons over 6 inches tall, 4) sculpt details onto the skeleton with clay, and 5) review to ensure the characters match original sketches. Examples are given of both poorly and well-designed characters, advising to keep it simple and able to stand alone without supports.

1. Character Design Tips Created for: The Origins of Animation Unit by Amy Johnson

4. Examples of Poorly Designed Characters These characters have a lot of detail. However, in a very quick stop-motion animation a lot of these details will be confusing to the viewer. Try to keep your characters simple. Also, remember for this project we are creating NEW characters; not reproductions of current characters. Image source: http://www.slideshare.net/shines/claymation-instructions-for-the-classroom

5. Examples of Poorly Designed Characters This character is not covered with clay. He is also very small. He is not very detailed. This character does not show a lot of fore-thought. Image source: http://www.slideshare.net/shines/claymation-instructions-for-the-classroom

6. Examples of Poorly Designed Characters This character is very sloppily put together. It cannot stand on its own and must be affixed to a platform. This character looks as if the artist did not care about the project. Image source: http://www.slideshare.net/shines/claymation-instructions-for-the-classroom

7. Examples of Poorly Designed Characters This character is one that already exists. So, while it has an overall neat design etc. it would not be acceptable for this project. Also, this character cannot stand on its own, and has to be propped up against a cup. You need for your characters to be able to stand on their own. Image source: http://www.slideshare.net/shines/claymation-instructions-for-the-classroom

8. Examples of Well Designed Characters This character stands on its own and is easy to view. This means that the viewer can instantly recognize what the character is meant to represent. The design demonstrates a lot of prior thinking about the ultimate creation. Image source: http://www.slideshare.net/shines/claymation-instructions-for-the-classroom

9. Examples of Well Designed Characters This character is a little bit sloppy, but has overall good design. The character can stand on its own and is easy to read. Image source: http://www.slideshare.net/shines/claymation-instructions-for-the-classroom