Clay Modeling

Clay modeling is done using a modeling material or industrial plasticine, mainly by automotive design studios. The clay itself was developed as the industrial version of hobby clay or plasticine. Clay modeling materials are based on wax, and they are used on concept cars before a new model is launched. There is usually a period of finding just the right design, because even today, models done by computer aren't sufficient to evaluate the overall quality of a given design. So 1:4 or 1:1 models are made, which give the viewer an impression of what the final car will look like.




New auto models are created by clay modeling, and they may have an iron or wooden frame, covered with Styrofoam. The clay is loaded on top of the foam. Then clay modeling is done with various tools, to develop the final shape of the car. This process is described at Clay Modelers.




Hard styling clays usually are used by the design team to create models of prototypes which are very accurate. Companies that work in transportation development, as in cars, motor homes and trucks, watercraft and aviation may use clay to show off their latest models. The final clay model may be used as a pattern to create parts, or scan for surface data for molds.




Chavant clay is made in several different formulations, that will suit the stringent requirements of the automobile industry. Selection of the clay modeling formula depends in large part upon the preferences of the designer, as well as the equipment available, the working environment and the requirements of the job. Each formulation will display excellent quality of consistency, cohesion and adhesion. Any of the formulations can be slicked, extruded and carved into an accurate finish. The clay modeling materials join together easily and won't show seams or cracks, if kept in normal conditions.




Clay modeling designers invest each carving with a great deal of time and care. A single prototype may take many hours to complete. The amount of materials used on your model will vary, depending on the scale of the model. On a 1:5 Corvette project, you might use between sixty and a hundred pounds of clay modeling materials. If a design is still being developed, you may use more clay, as the design may change. Models may be lighter or heavier, depending on the type of clay that is used. Y2Klay is lighter than many of the other types of modeling clay. You can buy materials at sites like Clay Modelers.




To help your model retain the sharp lines and detailed edges that you want, will take a great deal of practice. Clay modeling is a skill that you will eventually "feel" as you work with the various formulas. On lines of detail, masking tape can be used to make sure the edges stay crisp, while you model to the line. You can also insert a variety of thicknesses of fishing line along your lines of detail, or insert it around separate features, to retain the edges. You can use hard clay modeling materials for most detailed work.