In an age of high-end CGI and AI-generated content, claymation remains a beloved and enduring animation style. From quirky commercials to award-winning films, claymation continues to captivate audiences with its handcrafted charm and distinctive storytelling power.
But what exactly is claymation in 2025? How has it evolved, and why do artists and studios still use it when digital alternatives are often faster?
In this in-depth guide, we’ll break down the history of claymation, explore modern claymation animation techniques, compare it to other forms of stop motion, and show you how to make claymation step by step. Whether you’re an aspiring animator or a curious fan, you’ll find everything you need to know here.
What is Claymation?
Claymation is a form of stop-motion animation that uses clay models, typically made from plasticine or similar flexible materials. These clay figures are manipulated frame by frame, with each movement photographed individually. When played in sequence, the images create the illusion of motion.
In 2025, claymation remains popular among indie filmmakers, animation students, and studios that value its tactile, nostalgic quality. While digital tools have made the process easier in some ways, the core technique remains delightfully analog.
History of Claymation
The history of claymation dates back to the early 1900s, but it truly gained recognition in the mid-20th century.
Key Milestones:
- 1908: One of the first clay animations, The Sculptor’s Welsh Rarebit Dream, used clay to simulate sculpting.
- 1950s: Gumby and Pokey emerged as early famous claymation characters in children’s television.
- 1970s-80s: Will Vinton coined the term “Claymation” and produced commercials and shorts that earned critical acclaim.
- 1989: Wallace and Gromit debuted, marking a golden era for British claymation studio Aardman Animations.
- 2000s: Chicken Run (2000) and Coraline (2009) brought claymation into mainstream cinema.
Despite the rise of CGI, modern studios continue to celebrate claymation’s handcrafted aesthetic.
Claymation vs Stop Motion: What’s the Difference?
Many confuse claymation with stop motion, but they are not the same. Claymation is a subset of stop-motion animation.
Stop Motion Includes:
- Puppet animation
- Cut-out animation
- Silhouette animation
- Claymation (clay-based stop motion)
Claymation vs Stop Motion boils down to materials:
- Stop motion can use any physical object
- Claymation specifically uses clay or malleable materials for modeling characters and sets
In 2025, animators might use a hybrid approach: clay figures with 3D-printed accessories, digital touch-ups, or mixed media backgrounds. But the heart of claymation still lies in manual manipulation and frame-by-frame photography.
Claymation Animation Techniques in 2025
Technological advancements have refined traditional claymation animation techniques while keeping their artisanal essence intact. Here are some key techniques used today:
1. Armature Building
Inside each clay figure is a metal or wire skeleton (armature) that provides flexibility without breaking. New materials like bendable aluminum and eco-friendly polymers are popular in 2025.
2. Replacement Animation
Instead of reshaping the same clay model, animators use multiple versions of facial expressions or limbs. This technique saves time and improves consistency.
3. Digital Assistance
While clay models are still physically manipulated, tools like Dragonframe (animation software) help with:
- Onion skinning (overlaying frames for consistency)
- Frame capture
- Playback and sequencing
4. 3D Scanning and Printing
Studios now scan clay models and create digital backups. Some even 3D print complex props to support their clay creations.
5. Lighting and Cinematography
Modern LED lighting, softboxes, and color gels create cinematic effects. Real-time preview tools help test lighting setups before shooting.
These claymation animation techniques help preserve the medium’s charm while boosting efficiency and quality.
How to Make Claymation in 2025
Ready to get your hands dirty (literally)? Creating your own clay animation is easier than you think. Here’s a step-by-step guide for beginners:
Step 1: Plan Your Story
Every animation starts with a concept. Write a short script or storyboard that includes:
- Characters
- Scenes
- Dialogue (if any)
- Key actions or transitions
Step 2: Design Characters and Sets
Sketch out your characters. Decide on their proportions, expressions, and costumes.
Tip: Use color-coded clay or add accessories with felt, beads, or wires.
Step 3: Build the Armature
Use aluminum wire to build a skeleton for each character. Cover it with foil for bulk and wrap it in clay. This allows flexibility and strength.
Step 4: Set Up Your Studio
You don’t need a professional studio. A table, a smartphone, a tripod, and consistent lighting are enough to start.
Use apps like:
- Stop Motion Studio (mobile)
- Dragonframe (professional)
Step 5: Animate Frame-by-Frame
Take a photo. Slightly move the model. Take another photo. Repeat.
At 12-24 frames per second, one minute of animation can require 700–1400 photos!
Step 6: Edit and Add Sound
Import the frames into video editing software. Add sound effects, dialogue, and music to bring your claymation to life.
Free tools: DaVinci Resolve, HitFilm Express
Best Claymation Movies to Watch in 2025
Want to get inspired? Here are the best claymation movies — classics and modern hits that highlight the medium’s artistic potential:
1. Chicken Run (2000)
Aardman Animations’ breakout feature. A prison escape comedy with feathered flair.
2. Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit (2005)
Oscar-winning film with iconic British humor.
3. Coraline (2009)
Laika Studios pushed claymation into the dark fantasy genre with stunning visuals.
4. ParaNorman (2012)
Mixing horror and heart, this film showed the emotional range of claymation.
5. Shaun the Sheep Movie (2015) and Farmageddon (2019)
Dialog-free storytelling at its finest.
6. Missing Link (2019)
Laika’s hybrid of claymation and digital post-production won a Golden Globe.
7. Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio (2022)
Although a mix of puppetry and stop-motion, its claymation influence was clear.
These titles prove that claymation movies can be just as compelling, funny, and emotionally rich as any other form of animation.
Famous Claymation Characters
Over the decades, several famous claymation characters have left a mark on pop culture:
1. Gumby & Pokey
Early pioneers of television claymation.
2. Wallace & Gromit
Inventor-and-dog duo loved for their quirky inventions and comedic timing.
3. Morph
A cheeky character from Tony Hart’s art shows in the UK.
4. Mr. Bill
Saturday Night Live’s clay figure known for screaming “Oh nooo!”
5. Shaun the Sheep
A silent troublemaker who became an international sensation.
6. Coraline
While technically a puppet, the expressive clay-based design became an icon of dark stop motion.
Why Claymation Still Matters in 2025
You might wonder: why stick with clay when you can animate in Blender, Maya, or Unreal Engine?
Here’s why claymation in 2025 is still alive and kicking:
1. Tactile Appeal
There’s an undeniable charm in seeing fingerprints on a character’s cheek or the soft textures of real clay.
2. Craftsmanship
Audiences appreciate the labor-intensive, handmade quality in a world of mass-produced content.
3. Artistic Identity
Claymation gives creators a unique visual identity, often recognized instantly (like Aardman’s style).
4. Creative Control
You don’t need to know code or 3D modeling. Just sculpt, shoot, and go.
5. Hybrid Possibilities
Many artists now blend claymation with digital effects for the best of both worlds.
Educational Value of Claymation
Claymation is increasingly used in:
- Schools: Teaching storytelling, patience, and creative thinking
- Therapy: Helping children express emotions visually
- Workshops: Teaching animation fundamentals without screens
In 2025, with the rise of VR and AI in education, claymation offers a refreshing hands-on alternative.
The Future of Claymation
What Does 2025 and Beyond Hold?
- AR/VR Integration: Clay models scanned and brought into 3D virtual environments
- AI Tools: Faster frame interpolation, automated lighting corrections
- 3D Printed Clay Rigs: Hybrid clay-printed materials for efficiency
- Streaming Opportunities: More indie claymation shorts premiering on YouTube, TikTok, and Netflix
Final Thoughts
In a world where content is increasingly digital and fast-paced, claymation in 2025 stands as a reminder of the power of handcrafted art. It combines storytelling, sculpting, photography, and motion into a single expressive medium.
Whether you’re fascinated by the history of claymation, want to try your hand at animating, or love the timeless charm of famous claymation characters, there’s never been a better time to explore this creative form.
So roll up some clay, set your scene, and bring your imagination to life one frame at a time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
What Is Claymation Animation and How Does It Work?
Claymation, or clay animation, is a form of stop-motion animation that involves manipulating clay figures to create the illusion of movement. The process begins with sculpting characters and sets out of pliable clay. Filmmakers capture a series of images by moving the figures slightly between shots. When these images are played in sequence, they produce a fluid motion, giving life to the characters and stories. This technique allows for immense creativity, enabling artists to create unique and whimsical narratives that captivate audiences.
What Clay Is Used for Claymation?
For Claymation, a variety of clays can be used, including:
- Plasticine: A non-drying clay that’s soft and malleable, making it easy to shape and reshape for animation.
- Polymer clay: A more rigid option that can be baked to harden, providing durability.
- Modeling clay: Often used for its pliability and ease of use, though it may not hold detail as well as plasticine. Choosing the right type of clay is crucial, as it affects the texture and flexibility of your characters, influencing the final animation’s quality.
What Techniques Are Used for Claymation?
Several techniques enhance the effectiveness of Claymation:
- Armature: A skeleton structure inside the clay figure helps maintain posture and stability.
- Incremental movement: Moving the figures in small increments between frames for smooth transitions.
- Lighting control: Maintaining consistent lighting to avoid flickering effects in the final film.
- Facial expressions: Changing the faces or features of characters to convey emotions frame by frame. Mastering these techniques can significantly improve the overall production value, allowing for more dynamic storytelling.
How Can I Shoot My Stop Motion?
To create your stop-motion animation, follow these steps:
- Plan your story: Outline your animation’s plot and characters.
- Set up your scene: Create a background and arrange your figures on a stable surface.
- Use a camera: Position your camera on a tripod to keep the shot steady.
- Capture frames: Take a photo after each small movement of your figures. A frame rate of 12-24 frames per second usually works well.
- Edit: Use video editing software to compile the images into a cohesive animation, adjusting speed and adding sound if desired. Experimenting with different angles and perspectives can also enhance the visual appeal of your animation.
What Is Claymation Animation Film and How Does It Work?
A Claymation animation film is a cinematic work that employs clay figures and stop-motion techniques to tell a story. The process involves sculpting characters, shooting individual frames while slightly adjusting the figures, and then editing the frames together to create a seamless narrative. The charm of Claymation lies in its tactile, handcrafted quality, which allows for creative storytelling that can appeal to audiences of all ages. This unique animation style often fosters a deep emotional connection with viewers, making it a beloved choice in animation.
