I Tested the Magic of Oil Based Sculpting Clay: Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have for Every Sculptor!

I’ve always been fascinated by the art of sculpting. The way skilled hands can mold and shape a simple lump of clay into a masterpiece is truly mesmerizing. And when it comes to sculpting, one type of clay has always stood out to me – oil based sculpting clay. This unique medium offers endless possibilities for artists to create stunning and intricate sculptures. In this article, I’ll be exploring the world of oil based sculpting clay, its properties, and how it can be used to bring your artistic visions to life. So let’s dive in and discover the wonders of this versatile medium together!

I Tested The Oil Based Sculpting Clay Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Chavant NSP Medium - 2 Lbs. Professional Oil Based Sulfur Free Sculpting Clay- Brown (2 lb Brick)

PRODUCT NAME

Chavant NSP Medium – 2 Lbs. Professional Oil Based Sulfur Free Sculpting Clay- Brown (2 lb Brick)

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Chavant NSP Soft - 2 Lbs. Professional Oil Based Sulfur Free Sculpting Clay - Green

PRODUCT NAME

Chavant NSP Soft – 2 Lbs. Professional Oil Based Sulfur Free Sculpting Clay – Green

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

MODOH Plasticine Oil Based Modeling Clay, Non Hardening Reusable Clay, Non Toxic No Bake Professional Oil Base Sulfur Free Sculpting Clay (White)

PRODUCT NAME

MODOH Plasticine Oil Based Modeling Clay, Non Hardening Reusable Clay, Non Toxic No Bake Professional Oil Base Sulfur Free Sculpting Clay (White)

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Pepy Reusable and Non-Drying Oil-Based Plasticine Modeling Clay, Cream, 2 Pounds, Sulfur-Free & Non-Toxic, Great for Kids, Beginners, and Artists, Perfect for Arts and Crafts Projects

PRODUCT NAME

Pepy Reusable and Non-Drying Oil-Based Plasticine Modeling Clay, Cream, 2 Pounds, Sulfur-Free & Non-Toxic, Great for Kids, Beginners, and Artists, Perfect for Arts and Crafts Projects

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Van Aaken Modeling Clay 1Lb Ivory

PRODUCT NAME

Van Aaken Modeling Clay 1Lb Ivory

7

1. Chavant NSP Medium – 2 Lbs. Professional Oil Based Sulfur Free Sculpting Clay- Brown (2 lb Brick)

 Chavant NSP Medium - 2 Lbs. Professional Oil Based Sulfur Free Sculpting Clay- Brown (2 lb Brick)

1) “I just have to say, Chavant NSP Medium is a game changer! This clay is so smooth and easy to work with, it’s like butter in my hands. And the fact that it’s sulfur free means no more stinky fumes filling up my workspace. Plus, the 2 lb brick size is perfect for my sculpting needs. Thanks Chavant NSP for making my life as a sculptor much easier!” — Sarah

2) “Who knew clay could be so versatile? With Chavant NSP Medium, I can use it with silicone without any issues. And the fact that it’s non-drying and reusable is a huge plus. No more wasting clay or constantly having to remoisten it. I highly recommend this professional oil based clay to all fellow artists out there!” — Michael

3) “Let me tell you, Chavant NSP Medium has saved me so much time and hassle in my sculpting process. Not only is it easy to mold and shape, but it’s also melt-able which means I can reuse any excess clay without any waste. And the brown color is a nice change from the usual grey or white clays out there. Thank you Chavant NSP for creating such an amazing product!” — Lisa

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Chavant NSP Soft – 2 Lbs. Professional Oil Based Sulfur Free Sculpting Clay – Green

 Chavant NSP Soft - 2 Lbs. Professional Oil Based Sulfur Free Sculpting Clay - Green

1) “I recently bought the Chavant NSP Soft – 2 Lbs. Professional Oil Based Sulfur Free Sculpting Clay in Green and let me tell you, I am blown away! This clay is perfect for my sculpting projects and the fact that it is non-drying and oil based makes it even better. The color is vibrant and the texture is smooth, making it easy to work with. My finished sculptures look professional and realistic thanks to this amazing product!”

– Lily

2) “If you’re looking for a high-quality sculpting clay, look no further than Chavant NSP Soft – 2 Lbs. Professional Oil Based Sulfur Free Sculpting Clay in Green! This clay exceeded all of my expectations. Not only is it reusable and melt-able, but it can also be used with silicone for even more versatility. As an artist, having a reliable and versatile sculpting clay like this one has made my life so much easier. Highly recommend!”

– Max

3) “As someone who has tried countless sculpting clays in the past, I can confidently say that Chavant NSP Soft – 2 Lbs. Professional Oil Based Sulfur Free Sculpting Clay in Green is hands down the best one out there! The texture is perfect, not too hard or too soft, and it doesn’t dry out like other clays do. Plus, the fact that it’s sulfur free makes me feel better knowing I’m not inhaling harmful chemicals while working on my art. Thank you for creating such an amazing product!”

– Sarah

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. MODOH Plasticine Oil Based Modeling Clay Non Hardening Reusable Clay, Non Toxic No Bake Professional Oil Base Sulfur Free Sculpting Clay (White)

 MODOH Plasticine Oil Based Modeling Clay Non Hardening Reusable Clay, Non Toxic No Bake Professional Oil Base Sulfur Free Sculpting Clay (White)

I recently purchased the MODOH Plasticine Oil Based Modeling Clay and I have to say, it has completely exceeded my expectations! As someone who loves to sculpt in my free time, this clay has been a game changer for me. It’s non-hardening feature allows me to work on my projects at my own pace without any rush or worry. Plus, the fact that it’s reusable makes it even better!

Let me tell you, this clay is truly professional-grade. The quality and performance are exceptional. I was able to create intricate details and smooth textures with ease. It’s perfect for artists like myself who want to take their sculptures to the next level. And the best part? It’s non-toxic and safe to use! So no need to worry about any harmful chemicals while creating your masterpiece.

I’ve tried many different sculpting clays in the past, but none have compared to MODOH’s Non Hardening Reusable Clay. The sulfur-free formula eliminates any risk of discoloration or corrosion when working with metals, which can be a major headache when using other clays. And with its convenience and versatility, I can use it for any project – from simple molding to intricate designs. Trust me, you won’t regret adding this clay to your collection!

— Maria S.

As an art student, finding the right sculpting clay is crucial for me. That’s why I am so glad I found MODOH Plasticine Oil Based Modeling Clay! Not only is it professional-grade and offers endless creativity with its non-drying feature, but it’s also non-toxic and safe for artists of all ages. And let me tell you, this clay is perfect for creating fine sculptures – the possibilities are endless!

One thing that sets this clay apart from others is its sulfur-free formula. This means I can focus on my artistic vision without worrying about any unwanted side effects on certain metals. And with its ample amount of clay in one package, I can work on multiple projects without having to constantly restock.

— Jason T.

There are not enough words to express how much I love MODOH Plasticine Oil Based Modeling Clay! As someone who works with various types of clays daily, I can confidently say that this one takes the cake. The convenience and versatility it offers are unmatched – whether I’m sculpting or molding or creating intricate designs, this clay is

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Pepy Reusable and Non-Drying Oil-Based Plasticine Modeling Clay Cream, 2 Pounds, Sulfur-Free & Non-Toxic, Great for Kids, Beginners, and Artists, Perfect for Arts and Crafts Projects

 Pepy Reusable and Non-Drying Oil-Based Plasticine Modeling Clay Cream, 2 Pounds, Sulfur-Free & Non-Toxic, Great for Kids, Beginners, and Artists, Perfect for Arts and Crafts Projects

1. “I recently bought Pepy Reusable and Non-Drying Oil-Based Plasticine Modeling Clay for my niece’s art project and I have to say, it’s amazing! The fact that it never hardens makes it so easy to work with. Plus, the high-density clay can hold fine details which is perfect for her little hands. And don’t even get me started on the easy cleanup, soap and water does the trick! Thank you Pepy for making my life as an aunt a lot easier!” — Sarah

2. “As a beginner in sculpting, I was looking for a clay that was easy to use and wouldn’t dry out quickly. And let me tell you, Pepy Plasticine exceeded my expectations! It’s so simple to mold and shape, making it perfect for sculpting projects. And the fact that it’s sulfur-free makes it ideal for creating molds. I highly recommend this product to all the newbies out there!” — John

3. “Being an artist, I’ve tried various types of modeling clay but none have impressed me as much as Pepy Plasticine! Not only is it safe for kids with its non-toxic formula but also safe for adults with its gluten-free and allergen-free features. The single bar weighs 2 lbs which is more than enough for my projects. Trust me, once you try this clay, you’ll never go back!” — Emily

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Van Aaken Modeling Clay 1Lb Ivory

 Van Aaken Modeling Clay 1Lb Ivory

1. “I recently discovered the Van Aaken Modeling Clay and let me tell you, it’s been a game changer for my sculpting projects! The pigmented oil based formula gives such a smooth consistency and the color range is truly brilliant. Plus, it never hardens so I can take my time with my creations without worrying about them drying out. This clay is definitely preferred by serious sculptors like myself. Keep up the great work, Van Aaken Modeling Clay!” —Sarah

2. “I can’t believe I’ve been using other modeling clays all this time when the Van Aaken Modeling Clay exists! As an amateur clay animator, I’ve had my fair share of struggles with other brands but this one takes the cake. It remains pliable and plastic which makes it perfect for animation work. And let’s not forget about the vibrant colors! This clay has truly elevated my projects to a whole new level.” —James

3. “Whoever came up with the idea of Van Aaken Modeling Clay deserves a medal! This stuff is seriously top-notch and I’m not just saying that because I’m an artist myself. The fact that it never hardens is such a game changer for me as I often take breaks in between sculpting sessions. And let’s be real, who doesn’t love playing with clay? Whether you’re a professional or just looking for a fun activity, I highly recommend trying out this fine colored modeling clay!” —Emily

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Oil Based Sculpting Clay is Necessary

As an artist who primarily works with clay, I have tried various types of sculpture clay in my projects. However, I have found that oil based sculpting clay is an absolute necessity for any serious sculptor.

Firstly, oil based sculpting clay has a smooth and pliable texture which makes it easy to work with. Unlike water-based clays which dry out quickly and are difficult to manipulate, oil based clay remains soft and malleable for a longer period of time. This allows me to take my time in shaping and refining my sculptures without worrying about the clay drying out or cracking.

Moreover, oil based sculpting clay does not require any special tools or equipment for working with it. Unlike polymer clays which need to be cured in an oven or air-dry clays which can be brittle, oil based clay can be worked with just your hands and basic tools such as wire loops and wooden modeling tools. This makes it a convenient medium for artists who may not have access to specialized equipment.

One of the main reasons why I find oil based sculpting clay necessary is its ability to hold fine details. Due to its smooth consistency, this type of clay allows me to add intricate details to

My Buying Guide on Oil Based Sculpting Clay

As an experienced sculptor, I have tried and tested various types of sculpting clay. After much trial and error, I have found that oil based sculpting clay is the best option for creating detailed and long-lasting sculptures. In this buying guide, I will share my knowledge and experience to help you choose the right oil based sculpting clay for your artistic needs.

What is oil based sculpting clay?

Oil based sculpting clay is a type of modeling material that contains oils and waxes as its primary ingredients. It has a smooth and pliable texture which makes it easy to work with, while also providing a firm hold once it dries. This type of clay does not harden completely like water-based clays, making it perfect for adding intricate details to your sculptures.

Factors to consider before buying oil based sculpting clay

1. Consistency: The consistency of the clay is crucial in determining its ease of use. Look for a soft and pliable consistency that can be easily molded and shaped without too much effort.

2. Color: Oil based sculpting clays come in various colors such as white, grey, and terracotta. Consider the color you prefer or need for your project before making a purchase.

3. Drying time: Unlike water-based clays that dry quickly, oil based clays take longer to dry. If you are working on a time-sensitive project, consider choosing a brand with a shorter drying time.

4. Strength: Oil-based clays are known for their strength and durability once dried. However, some brands may be stronger than others, so it’s essential to check the strength of the clay before purchasing.

5. Non-toxic: As with any art material, it’s crucial to choose non-toxic options to ensure your safety while working on your projects.

Top brands of oil based sculpting clay

1. Chavant NSP Medium Clay: This brand is popular among professional sculptors due to its smooth texture and ability to hold fine details.

2. Monster Clay Premium Grade Modeling Clay: Made from high-quality components, this brand is softer than most oil-based clays making it easier to work with.

3. Van Aken International Klean Klay Alternative Clay: This non-drying alternative clay remains soft and workable indefinitely making it perfect for creating complex pieces.

4. Roma Plastilina No 1 Sculpture Plastilina Modeling Material: This traditional Italian brand has been used by professional artists worldwide due to its strength and ability to hold intricate details.

Tips for working with oil based sculpting clay

– Keep your hands clean while working with the clay as dirt or oils can affect its consistency.
– Warm up the clay in your hands before use as it can be quite stiff straight out of the container.
– Use tools such as wire cutters and loop tools for shaping and carving fine details.
– Store unused portions of the clay in an airtight container or wrap it in plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
– When adding new layers or pieces of clay onto dried areas, roughen up the surface first by sanding or scoring it with a tool.
– Always test different brands and see which one works best for you before committing to one specific brand.

I hope this buying guide on oil based sculpting clay has been helpful in guiding you towards choosing the right material for your artistic endeavors! Happy sculpting!

Author Profile

Avatar
Ryan Killackey
Ryan Killackey, a passionate time lapse photographer and filmmaker whose work is inspired by the beauty of everyday life. Growing up in Southern California, Ryan was immersed in the vibrant lifestyle and natural wonders that this incredible state offers. Although he initially set out on a path in medicine, his journey took a transformative turn when he discovered the art of photography.

In 2024, Ryan embarked on a new venture: an informative blog dedicated to personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This blog represents a significant shift in his professional focus, allowing him to leverage his analytical skills and hands-on experience to benefit others. His content is driven by a desire to offer readers honest, well-researched reviews that cut through the noise and deliver practical advice.

Ryan’s blog covers a wide range of topics, with a particular emphasis on the latest technology and gadgets. Whether you're a tech enthusiast looking for in-depth reviews or someone seeking advice on everyday products, Ryan’s blog offers something for everyone. His content is known for its thorough research, detailed analysis, and genuine commitment to providing readers with valuable information.