Sandcastles/sand sculptures?

Smish · Jul 17, 2011

I'm currently writing a middle grade novel with a coastal town setting, and one of my characters builds amazing sandcastles/scuptures. Unfortunately, the only sandcastle I ever attempted to build was more mound-of-sand than castle. And I live in Middle America, far from the ocean.

What are the tools that are generally used? How long does a large, well-done castle last in good weather? Any insider terminology I should know? Any tips/thoughts/advice/pictures/links would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks! :Sun:

mirandashell · Jul 17, 2011

Does this help?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sand_art_and_play

And this guy explains how:

http://www.sculpturesinsand.com/

Smish · Jul 17, 2011

Well, I've googled and whatnot. I'm looking more for firsthand accounts. Thanks, though. All help is appreciated!

Snick · Jul 17, 2011

I have never seen anyone use anything except a plastic bucket and shovel, the normal chidren's tools for playing in sand. As I understand it, many sandcastle contests require that nothing except those tools be used, but I haven't looked at such contess for a long time.

mirandashell · Jul 17, 2011

Hmmm... Unless you can find someone on this board who does that, you might be out of luck.....

How about you email the guy in the second link and ask him?

Buffysquirrel · Jul 18, 2011

http://www.sandcastlecentral.com/tips/index.html

jaksen · Jul 18, 2011

The sand castle lasts until the next high tide, or if you build above the normal high tide mark, the next high-high tide (at full moon) or next coastal storm.

But sand does dry out and the castle or artwork might start to get crumbly before then. It's a shame; some of the sculptures are gorgeous.

Smish · Jul 18, 2011

Thanks, guys.

Sandcastles/sand sculptures?

Smish

Reads more than she writes.

mirandashell

Smish

Reads more than she writes.

Snick

mirandashell

Buffysquirrel

jaksen

Caped Codder

Smish

Reads more than she writes.