Technical name for Crayola Model Magic?

January 5, 2015 6:12 AM

Is there a non-proprietary term for this modeling material? If not, is there a broader technical category that it might fall under? Trying to figure out how to list the materials used in an artwork, and this weird stuff is one component. I need a better descriptor than the brand name if at all possible (I realize it might not be possible.) Thanks for any help!
posted by thegreatfleecircus to Media & Arts (8 answers total)

It's an air drying modeling compound (so is Crayola Air Dry Clay, but it's a little different). There are other brands of the same kind of product, such as those made by Paperclay.
posted by jedicus at 6:20 AM on January 5, 2015

Alternatively it could be called an air hardening modeling compound, air drying modeling clay, etc.
posted by jedicus at 6:22 AM on January 5, 2015

I'd just say "modeling compound." The mechanics of how an artistic medium cures usually aren't mentioned, right?
posted by MrMoonPie at 6:32 AM on January 5, 2015 [2 favorites]

I think it depends on the purpose of the description - I think "modeling compound" is fine if we're talking about a gallery label or auction description, but it would be nice to have more detail (even including the actual brand name of the stuff) associated with the work for future archival/preservation purposes.
posted by mskyle at 6:45 AM on January 5, 2015

I'd just say "modeling compound."

This. Because, that's what it is.
posted by Thorzdad at 6:59 AM on January 5, 2015 [1 favorite]

I thought the MSDS (pdf) might give us a clue to its composition, but no dice.

The certified products list of Crayola products of The Art And Creative Materials Institute, Inc. categorizes it as "Clays & Modeling Compounds, Modeling Dough" (for comparison, Crayola Air Dry Clay is listed as "Clays & Modeling Compounds, Modeling (Self-Hardening)".
posted by Jahaza at 7:11 AM on January 5, 2015 [1 favorite]

Best answer: Acrylic modeling paste is sold in traditional artist brands like Golden or Liquitex. Modeling paste is a thick acrylic resin, titanium pigment, with some resin solids (little pieces of plastic or beads) and varied air content.

Liquitex has, for example---Modeling Paste and Light Modeling Paste. The Light Modeling Paste simply has more air whipped into the formulation to decrease weight.

The Crayola Model Magic is a variation of Light Modeling Paste for the children's market.

Acrylic Media would be an appropriate descriptive term.
posted by effluvia at 8:06 AM on January 5, 2015 [3 favorites]

Response by poster: Many thanks, guys. This is very helpful.
posted by thegreatfleecircus at 9:58 AM on January 5, 2015