Abstract: A modeling dough comprising a polar polymeric resin, water, a gellant, and a filler provides a dough resistant to flaking, cracking, and crumbling. In the disclosed invention, the polymeric resin is gelled, thereby providing a water-based resin system that is not sticky yet very ductile. After the dough is air-dried, the components are bound into a solid, durable product. The filler accounts for a large portion of the volume of the dough, so the overall volume is not greatly affected by water loss upon drying. The dough is water-based and easy to wash from skin, carpets, and other surfaces. Dyes and pigments can be easily incorporated into the formula. The dried product is sandable and paintable.