Ms. Maggie Lin, the principal of Edison Chinese School, demonstrated traditional dough figurine making techniques to FASCA members, who created their own works amidst laughter and joy.
Ms. Lin displays edible dough figurines she crafted in Taiwan, including Lunar Zodiac animals, offering students an authentic glimpse into this traditional folk art.
FASCA members and counselors share smiles and laughter as they learn and create together in a culturally enriching workshop.
Each SanTaiZi figurine reflects its creator’s personality, showcasing the creativity and imagination of FASCA members.
December 13, 2025 — Edison, NJ
For many second-generation Taiwanese Americans, learning about Taiwanese culture often comes through family stories or annual celebrations. On December 13, 2025, members of the Formosa Association of Student Cultural Ambassadors (FASCA) Princeton chapter had the opportunity to engage with their cultural heritage in a hands-on and creative way through a SanTaiZi (三太子) dough figurine art workshop.
The workshop was led by Ms. Maggie Lin, principal of Edison’s Chinese School, who introduced students to this traditional Taiwanese folk art. As soon as the brightly colored dough was laid out, excitement filled the room. Ms. Lin began by explaining the cultural background of dough figurine art in Taiwan. Traditionally, these figurines are made from flour and glutinous rice, making them edible. They are commonly sold near temples, where skilled artisans can shape them into animals from the Lunar calendar or well-known characters such as Sun Wukong (孫悟空). In some cases, the figurines are even made with sugar, allowing them to double as sweet treats.
For safety reasons, the workshop used modeling dough, which is not edible. Ms. Lin reminded participants to wash their hands frequently—a humorous contrast to the edible versions found in Taiwan. She also shared that she had traveled to Taiwan to learn these techniques firsthand and brought several of her own creations to display. Among them were delicately crafted Lunar Zodiac animals, all made from traditional edible dough. These examples gave students a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and cultural significance behind the art form.
Ms. Lin then presented a SanTaiZi figurine sample she had learned to create under the guidance of an instructor in Taiwan. FASCA members and counselors watched in awe as she showcased the detailed figure and demonstrated the process using a variety of colorful dough. Soon after, participants began crafting their own SanTaiZi figures.
The activity proved both challenging and rewarding. Many students found the smallest details—especially the eyebrows—the most difficult, as the figurines required precise and delicate work. Despite the challenges, creativity thrived. Grace added a cape to her SanTaiZi, Counselor Vincent dressed his figurine in a pink shirt, and Ms. Lin created a charming, cartoon-style version. Each figure reflected the individuality of its creator.
After completing the heads, participants moved on to shaping the bodies. Some students discovered that waiting too long caused the dough to harden, making assembly more difficult. While many managed to create a torso and arms, Counselor Vincent impressed everyone by completing both arms and legs. One student even dressed their SanTaiZi in a FASCA yellow T-shirt, and the group joked that making a Taiwanese black bear might have been easier.
After finishing their SanTaiZi figures, several members continued experimenting with other creations. Carissa made a SpongeBob-inspired snail, while another student crafted a sunny-side-up egg. Laughter and creativity filled the room as the workshop concluded with Ms. Lin treating everyone to Ferrero Rocher chocolates.
The event demonstrated that learning Taiwanese culture can be both meaningful and fun. Through art, creativity, and shared experience, FASCA members strengthened their connection to their heritage and expressed enthusiasm for future cultural arts workshops.
Reported by FASCA Princeton — Skyler Chen
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