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Chavant NSP Sculptex
204300703
€6.00
7,26 € Tax incl.
7,26 € Tax incl.
Professional sulfur-free modeling clay that does not harden. Soft (14A) and Medium (26A), off white, 450g. 100% compatible with platinum silicones.
Chavant NSP Sculptex is a professional sulfur-free modeling clay that is non-toxic and does not harden over time. Specifically formulated to be compatible with platinum (addition) silicones, it is the go-to choice for sculptors, prototypers and special effects technicians who cannot risk inhibition in the mold. Available in two hardnesses —Soft and Medium—, it offers high-definition results and a surface that can be easily refined with solvents.
Technical specifications
| Property | Soft | Medium |
|---|---|---|
| Shore Hardness (Shore A) | 14A | 26A |
| Color | Off White | |
| Content per unit | 450 g | |
| Contains sulfur | No | |
| Hardens | No | |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic | |
| Compatible with platinum silicones | Yes | |
| Reusable | Yes | |
What it is used for
Chavant NSP Sculptex is designed for professionals and semi-professionals who need a reusable, high-definition modeling material with no risk of inhibition in platinum silicone molds. Its off white color makes it easy to read fine details under any type of studio lighting.
- Sculpting characters, busts and high-fidelity figures
- Modeling industrial and design prototypes
- Creating barriers and mold walls for platinum silicone processes
- Filling and correcting models during the molding process
- Sculpting special effects for film, television and theatre
- Modeling architectural maquettes and concept pieces
- Product prototypes where platinum silicone molds are planned
How to use it
- Condition the material: apply gentle, even heat using your hands, a heat gun on low power or an incandescent lamp. The Soft version softens with very little heat; the Medium requires a little more time.
- Sculpt: work the material with your hands or standard sculpting tools. At room temperature it progressively regains its firmness, allowing you to add detail as it sets.
- Refine the surface: wipe with a cloth dampened with mineral spirits or naphtha to smooth, blend transitions and remove tool marks. Work in light passes to avoid over-dissolving.
- Seal (optional): if you are going to pour a platinum silicone directly, you can apply a very thin layer of compatible release agent to facilitate separation afterwards.
- Mold: pour or brush your platinum silicone directly onto the sculpture. As it contains no sulfur, Sculptex will not inhibit the cure.
- Recover the material: after demolding, collect the Sculptex remnants, warm them slightly and knead them again. The material is reusable indefinitely.
Tips and tricks
Choose the right hardness for the job
The Soft (14A) version is ideal for pieces with complex organic shapes, modeling facial expressions and fine detail work at studio temperature. The Medium (26A) version performs better on large pieces or when you need sharper edges and the sculpture to hold its own weight without deforming. If in doubt, start with Medium: you can always locally soften areas that require more detail using heat.
Temperature control for more precise work
Chavant NSP Sculptex responds very well to localized heat. A heat gun held at a distance or a warmed metal spatula allow you to subtly melt the surface to erase imperfections or integrate additions. Do not expose the material to high temperatures for extended periods: it can become excessively soft and lose structural consistency. In summer or in warm studios, keep the piece in a cool place between sessions.
Correct preparation of mold walls
When using Sculptex to build walls or barriers in two-part molds, make sure the seal against the model is perfect: a small gap can cause silicone flash that is difficult to remove. Use a warmed spatula to slightly melt the joint between the barrier and the model to achieve a clean seal. Remove any Sculptex residue from the model before applying the second half of the mold.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the Soft and Medium versions?
The difference is hardness at studio temperature: Soft has a Shore A hardness of 14 and is easier to work with your hands from the start, ideal for fine details and organic shapes. Medium has a Shore A hardness of 26, holds its shape better on large pieces and allows sharper edges. Both respond to heat for softening and share the same compatibility and finish properties.
Why is it important for a modeling clay to be sulfur-free?
Platinum (addition) silicones are very sensitive to certain contaminants, including sulfur. If the clay used for modeling or as a mold barrier contains sulfur, it can inhibit the cure of the silicone in the contact area, leaving a tacky or uncured surface. Chavant NSP Sculptex is formulated without sulfur, making it directly compatible with platinum silicones with no risk of inhibition.
Can I pour platinum silicone directly onto this clay without a release agent?
In most cases yes, and this is one of the advantages of Chavant NSP Sculptex. However, applying a very thin layer of compatible release agent makes separation easier and protects both the sculpture and the mold, especially on pieces with complex geometries or heavy undercuts. Always test on a small area when working with a new silicone or formulation.
Does the material harden or expire over time?
No. Chavant NSP Sculptex does not harden over time or when exposed to air. It retains its properties indefinitely when stored correctly, away from intense heat sources and protected from dust. The material is fully reusable: you can recover trimmings, warm them up and reintegrate them into the sculpture or save them for future projects.
How do you refine the surface and remove tool marks?
The surface of Chavant NSP Sculptex can be smoothed with a cloth or brush dampened with mineral spirits, naphtha or mineral turpentine. Apply with light touches to subtly melt the surface layer without affecting the volume. You can also use a slightly warmed metal spatula to melt and blend joints or imperfections in a localized area.
How much clay do I need to sculpt a life-size head?
A life-size human head on an armature or support requires approximately 2 to 4 kg of material, depending on layer thickness and level of detail. A 450 g unit can cover partial areas or small pieces. For full bust projects, it is advisable to have several units and work in zones, adding material in layers.
Can this clay be painted or pigmented?
Chavant NSP Sculptex is not designed to be painted directly while in its workable state, as water-based paints do not adhere well to its surface. However, its off white color makes it easy to photograph and study volumes under studio lighting. If you need to see the finish in color, apply it to the final piece after demolding and reproducing it in resin or silicone.
Is it compatible with condensation (tin) silicones?
Yes. As it contains no sulfur or cure-inhibiting compounds, Chavant NSP Sculptex is compatible with both platinum (addition) silicones and condensation (tin) silicones. You can use it with complete confidence in any silicone molding process.
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