material base / infiltrant description cost strength resolution post-finishing typical applications starch / wax inexpensive Our most affordable model. Environmentally inert. Recommended for large solid parts or parts with thick-walled sections only $ fair low carving sanding visual appraisal models investment casting sculptures ergonomic models plaster / wax inexpensive high-resolution Higher resolution than a starch/wax model $$ fair high carving sanding visual appraisal models investment casting sculptures ergonomic models plaster / hardener strong, high-resolution, easily finishable Durable high-resolution model at an affordable price. Ideal if additional finishing is required $$$ good high sanding painting architectural models low-stress functional prototypes product housings ergonomic models plaster / CA resin strong, high-resolution Our strongest high-resolution model. However, thin-walled parts may warp slightly and the hard model is difficult to sand. $$$ v. good high machining painting sanding is difficult architectural models low-stress functional prototypes product housings ergonomic models