A new product I have been playing with "Shapecrete" ; (available at home depot) has more flexibility and works in a similar fashion as clay...kind of pricy (well, to me) one bucket of 20lbs renders about 6-7 medium bowls @ $19.99 I see it cost more in other states. I am seeing a world of possibilities as I use this product for mix mediums - time to see it's limits. I used a silicone texture mat (made for baking) purchased at a thrift store.