plastin

Plastin is a family of oil-based modeling compounds used for sculpture, maquettes, and animation. Also spelled plastiline or plastilina in various languages, plastin refers to pliable materials that do not dry out after shaping. These materials remain soft and workable for extended periods, allowing artists to repeatedly shape and refine forms without the need to bake or cure.

Most plastin formulations are made from a blend of waxes, mineral or vegetable oils, and inert fillers such as clays. Color pigments are added for visibility. The exact composition varies by brand and intended use; some formulations emphasize softness and long workability, while others are firmer to hold small details.

Properties include low hardness at room temperature, high plasticity, and slow or negligible drying. They generally have a low odor, though some older or heavier formulations can have noticeable smells. Plastin can be warmed slightly to soften and cooled to firm up; it can be shaped with fingers or simple tools, and some versions respond well to scalpels or sculpting tools. It can be stored for long periods when wrapped and kept away from air exposure to minimize surface drying.

Applications range from preliminary sculpture and character design to stop-motion animation models and theatre props. In art education, plastin is used for quick concept sketches and prototypes, while professional studios use higher-end oils-based clays for more refined work.

See also: plastination, plastilina, modelling clay.