Hey Everyone, I was thinking about redoing my King Tiger and I was wondering if modelling clay would work for zimmerit coating. The reasoning behind this is because it's soft and malleable. Thanks again.

It'll crumble when it dries out. I doubt it would adhere to your model. Unknown properties when painted. Likely unable to model ridges to scale.

All bad reasons to go forth, I'd say.

Not to mention that any amount of shrinkage would be unacceptable.

Concur. The soft clay (also known as Plasticene) that doesn't dry out is also infused with oils that will prevent it sticking well or of paint sticking or drying.

Don't think it's the way to go, my friend.

Funny. That's what "she" said.

And sadly, she was right!

lol. That's funny. Thanks for your help everyone. If I may ask a follow-up question, is there a difference between modelling clay and ceramic clay? Would that make a difference?

Hi, I'd recommend either tamiya polyester 2 part or Aves apoxie sculpt, both have a decent working window and give a good result if applied thinly enough. Good luck!

Modeling clay is made from oils, waxes and clay minerals. Because it contains oils, it doesn't dry out even when left out for long periods. It stays soft and malleable.

Ceramic clay is a water-based compound made from clay minerals and other raw materials and needs to be baked at a high temperature in order to harden.

Neither of these is useful for modeling zimmerit. You'd be better off using something like Magic-Sculpt two part self hardening epoxy clay. It can be smoothed down with water and air hardens like a rock. Once dry, you can use a hobby blade to chip it and simulate damaged zimmerit. It's also great for filling in seams. Magic-Sculpt can be found at any decent art supply store and will set you back about 15 bucks for a 1 lb. set (1 8oz. tub each of resin and hardener).

I would suggest Milliput, a two part putty. It has good working time, will stick to model well, and can be applied thin.

Milliput, yes.

I never quite understand why modelers will spend significant $$$ to purchase a fine kit, then use whatever cheap **** they can dream up because they're too skinflinty to pay for AM products, but then risk ruining it.

Folks, unless you want the challenge, you should consider resin or even PE zimmerit. The thinness required for scale accuracy is beyond most of our skill sets. I've done the DIY Zim and it isn't worth the hassle IMO.