Softbaitfishing Plastisol Hardener (1 l)

Product detailed description

Softbaitfishing Plastisol Hardener is a liquid additive designed for precisely adjusting plastisol firmness before heating. It is not a complete plastisol but a specialised additive that allows you to modify the original material towards a firmer body, greater shape stability and more durable soft plastic lure construction.

It makes sense when the finished lure is too soft, the body deforms easily, a larger tail does not have sufficient support or greater durability is required for fishing in strong currents, around obstacles or in saltwater. Typical applications include larger shads, swimbaits, tube baits, minnows requiring a firmer backbone, craws and other lures exposed to greater stress during retrieval or a strike.

Increasing plastisol firmness always involves a compromise. A firmer material can hold its shape better and resist deformation, but it may also restrict the subtle action of a thin tail or delicate appendages. In detailed molds, a firmer mixture may also require more careful control of the processing temperature and proper filling of narrow sections of the cavity.

Liquid hardener or HARD plastisol? Liquid Hardener is particularly suitable for fine adjustments to a specific recipe and for small production batches. If you need a greater and more easily repeatable increase in firmness, it may be more practical to mix your original plastisol with complete Softbaitfishing Cristallo STP HARD plastisol. HARD is a complete plastisol, while Plastisol Hardener is a concentrated tool for gradually fine-tuning an existing mixture.

How to add the hardener correctly: first homogenise the plastisol and hardener separately. Add the measured amount of hardener to cold, unheated plastisol and mix slowly until the material is completely uniform. Avoid vigorous mixing, which would unnecessarily introduce air into the plastisol.

Because the resulting change depends on the original plastisol, lure shape and required result, we recommend starting with a controlled series of small test samples:

→ first sample: 1 ml of hardener per 100 ml of cold plastisol

→ second separate sample: 2 ml per 100 ml of plastisol

→ third separate sample: 3 ml per 100 ml of plastisol

This test series is not a universal dosage specified by the manufacturer. It is a conservative workshop method that helps you find a suitable ratio without wasting a large quantity of material. Record each recipe and compare the samples using the same lure shape. Assess the final result only after the lure has cooled completely and ideally after it has been allowed to rest flat for at least 24 hours.

The processing temperature is always determined by the original plastisol. Adding hardener does not create a new processing temperature range and does not replace a heat stabiliser. Do not heat the hardener separately or add it to plastisol that is already hot.

Wear protective gloves, long clothing and eye protection when working with plastisol. Heat plastisol only in a well-ventilated workshop and use equipment that is not also used for food preparation.

Frequently asked questions – Softbaitfishing Plastisol Hardener

Is Plastisol Hardener a complete plastisol?

No. It is a liquid additive designed to adjust the firmness of cold plastisol before heating. It cannot be heated and poured into a mold on its own.

What is the difference between liquid hardener and Cristallo STP HARD plastisol?

Liquid hardener allows you to adjust a recipe gradually in small steps. Cristallo STP HARD is a complete plastisol with its own defined firmness and can be used separately or mixed with softer plastisols in an easily repeatable ratio.

How much hardener should I add?

The final effect depends on the original plastisol, and the manufacturer does not specify a universal conversion between the amount of hardener and the resulting firmness. Start with a small test sample, for example 1 ml per 100 ml of plastisol, and prepare additional separate samples with gradually higher concentrations.

Can I add the hardener to hot plastisol?

We do not recommend it. Add the hardener to cold plastisol and mix it thoroughly before heating. This produces a more uniform and repeatable result.

Will the hardener make the lure more durable?

Greater firmness generally improves shape stability and may increase the durability of highly stressed parts of the lure. However, it can also reduce flexibility and restrict the action of a delicate tail, so the correct balance must be found for each specific lure shape.

Can I use it with plastisol from another manufacturer?

Different plastisols use different formulations, and dosage ratios cannot automatically be transferred between manufacturers. Test the combination in a small separate batch and check clarity, mixing, resulting firmness and behaviour during heating.

Will the hardener affect lure buoyancy?

Any change to the recipe may affect the density of the finished material. The hardener itself does not guarantee a specific level of buoyancy. Always test the finished lure in water with its hook, weight and complete final rigging.

→ All detailed technical information can be found below in the Product parameters table.

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