Greek Column Crafts

Columns that we see in today's architecture were originated by the ancient Greeks. The three columns are the Doric, Ionic and Corinthian orders. All of the orders have a capital, or top, and a shaft. Although the Doric column does not have a base, or footing, the Ionic and Corinthian ones do. Each of the columns can further be identified by the Doric's disk-like capital; the Ionic's scroll capital and the Corinthian's acanthus leaf capital.

Create Greek columns with three paper towel tubes so that you have one for each type of column. Paint the tubes white and let them dry. Use black paint to decorate the columns in the Doric, Ionic or Corinthian style. Use paper to create the scrolls of Ionic columns and the leaves of Corinthian columns and glue them on the tubes for an extra effect. Scrolls can be made by wrapping paper tightly around a pen or pencil and leaves can be drawn on paper and cut out.

Clay can be shaped into almost anything you like, including Greek columns. Roll white clay to the length desired and shape the clay so that it's flat at the top and bottom. Use clay to make different shapes based on the three different kinds of columns, such as a circle topped by a square for the Doric column, scrolls for the Ionic column, and leaves for the Corinthian column. You can also carve lines into the Ionic column for the flutes using a toothpick and make a base for the Ionic and Corinthian columns.

A Doric column, the simplest of all the columns, can be made using a cylindrical polystyrene foam, better known as the brand name, Styrofoam. Use a pencil to draw the lines where you want to create the capital and simply cut out the necessary parts until it's shaped the way you want. Glue a square piece of foam on top of the column. Draw lines for the fluting on the shaft, which can be carved out using a spoon.

Create almost life-size Greek columns using a roll of art paper. Roll out as much art paper as you want to use. Use a pencil or black pen, markers or paint to draw all of the details that you need. Use a ruler to help you draw the shaft and the flutes. Since you're creating a drawing, make it as detailed as possible, especially when drawing a Corinthian column, which is the most ornate of the three. When you're finished, cut out the column with scissors and display it by using tape to stick it on a wall.