Modeling Clay – Creative Fun Made Possible by Polwax Wax 01 June 2025
Modeling clay is an inseparable part of childhood – soft, colorful, flexible, and perfect for shaping endless forms and sparking imagination. But have you ever wondered what makes modeling clay so special? Or how its composition has changed over the years?
The History of Modeling Clay – Two Inventors, Different Patents
Although today modeling clay is associated mostly with play, its origins are rooted in sculpture and art education. Interestingly, depending on the country and local patent laws, two individuals are credited with inventing modeling clay.
🔹 Franz Kolb – A Pioneer of Modeling Clay
Franz Kolb, a Munich-based pharmacist, created modeling clay in 1880. He was inspired by conversations with sculptors who struggled with clay freezing in cold studios. Kolb aimed to develop a material that was cold-resistant, moldable, and reusable. In 1890, he founded a company and began producing artificial clay, which he named “Plastilin.”
🔹 William Harbutt – Creator of Modeling Clay for the English Market
The second inventor was William Harbutt, an English artist and sculpture teacher. In 1897, he developed a clay-like material that was more durable and reusable. He obtained a trademark in 1899 and began industrial-scale production of modeling clay in Bathampton, England in 1900.
Although Kolb and Harbutt worked independently, both created a product that revolutionized the world of modeling and art education. Their formulas differed, highlighting that modeling clay can have varied compositions and properties.
What Is Modeling Clay Made Of – And How Has It Changed?
Initially, modeling clay was made from a mix of chalk, petroleum jelly, and wax. Over time, its formula evolved, but one ingredient remained constant: wax – essential for flexibility and preventing the clay from drying out.
Today, modeling clay comes in many versions – from classic to eco-friendly, made with natural ingredients, fluorescent, or with added glitter. Regardless of the form, it must remain soft, reusable, and color-stable.
What Role Does Polwax Wax Play in Modeling Clay Production?
Modeling clay couldn’t exist without carefully selected raw materials. Polwax supplies specialized wax for modeling clay that ensures:
✅ Softness and easy molding
✅ Flexibility and resistance to crumbling
✅ Reusability without the risk of drying out
Polwax waxes are used in many industries – one of them being modeling clay production. Thanks to these waxes, the material remains elastic and functional, enabling boundless creativity for both children and professional sculptors.
Safety and Quality – Polwax Priorities
We ensure that our products meet the highest standards of quality and safety. Polwax wax used in modeling clay is thoroughly refined and safe, even for the youngest users. It also meets food contact standards, meaning it can be safely used in products intended for children.
Polwax is a guarantee of top-tier quality, helping modeling clay remain one of the most beloved materials for creative play and education for decades.
Sources:
🔹 https://artszop.pl/odkryj-swiat-plasteliny-kreatywnosc-bez-granic/
🔹 https://pl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plastelina
