lets talk about clay

[12v]

ok seriously, im like the biggest fan yet hater of clay ever.... seriously. i contradict myself alot so take that how i said it.

anyways we all know how clay works, but i have stupid yet great question to ask. here we go.

I can go to the arts and craft store and pick up a block of non-hardening modeling clay for about 3-4 bucks, thats about 3 times the size of any piece of automotive clay you can get, and we all know how much everyone charges for clay in the automotive industry. Now ive never attempted using the modeling clay on paint (dont know how it would perform) but seriously what is the deal with the price on a freakin piece of clay?

just looking for info, because it seriously upsets me that a simple piece of equipment cost more, alot more than it should. then again everything does, but still

 

[nrengle]

Got a frieend with a beater car that would let you test out the modeling clay? Or what about just going to a junk yard and grabbing a cheap hood and trying it out to see what happens?

I'm about as clueless as you as to why it's this pricey.

 

[bryansbestwax]

My guess, only because if haven't tried it is that the abrasives are managed in detailing clay where in modeling clay they would not be closely monitored. Also, due to the fact that only one company has the patent on detailing clay in the USA, prices will tend to be higher due to the monopoly.

 

[ScottB]

as offered it would be the abrasive level of the clay that would be the real issue. Claying however is a valid part of prepping a finish and worth the extra bucks IMO.

 

[f_bomb]

IMO, model clay seems more gritty...I've used some model clay that had some good size pieces of grit in it...I would assume car clay is more refined, but I am no expert. I think since you started it, you have to test model clay on a junker like nrengle mentioned!

^^^Speaking of modeling Clay...
Why you hatin???

 

[Gadgetech]

but seriously what is the deal with the price on a freakin piece of clay?

just looking for info, because it seriously upsets me that a simple piece of equipment cost more, alot more than it should. then again everything does, but still

As with everything, it sells at the price the market will bear. With the additional processes needed to refine it there is also added cost. I'm not an economist nerd (sorry if that offends anyone) but, it is what it is. Why does a glass of tea cost $2.50 in most restaurants when $2.50 probably pays for the whole urn of brewed tea?

 

[dublifecrisis]

hey-why not just do the 'CD test' with some various types of cheap clay? Obviously, the pliability is nearly as important in comparing auto clay with some other clay. If it doesn't scratch the CD, then the next factor will it actually clean?