I've tried the clay before. I always get frustrated with it when I use it. After a few minutes of being in my hand it gets to warm and soft and hard to work with. It's true though, it is a good way to practice. I have worked out a few things with it before working with steel. I've wondered about putting a bit of it in the fridge or freezer before working with it, but I haven't needed to use it lately, or rather I haven't brought myself to use it.