Softbaitfishing Plastisol Softener STP FLOATING (1 l)

Product detailed description

Softbaitfishing Plastisol Softener STP FLOATING is a liquid softener designed for fine-tuning the flexibility and softness of Cristallo STP floating plastisol. It is added to the cold mixture before heating and allows you to adjust a specific recipe without changing the entire base plastisol.

Its main benefit can be seen in lures that require a softer body, more responsive tail, easier activation at slow retrieval speeds or more natural movement in the water. It is suitable for smaller minnows, finesse lures, delicate shads, trout soft baits, vertically presented lures and individually adjusted workshop recipes.

The STP FLOATING version is designed for the Cristallo STP floating range. The manufacturer offers a separate softener for STP FLOATING and another version for ETP SINKING, so it makes sense to use the additive intended for the corresponding plastisol system. Its purpose is to soften floating plastisol without using an additive developed for the sinking range.

However, the STP FLOATING designation does not automatically guarantee that every finished lure will float. Actual buoyancy is affected by the lure’s volume and shape, the amount of softener, pigments, glitter, salt, scents, hooks, jig heads and other parts of the final rig. Always test the finished lure in water in the same configuration in which it will actually be used.

Softening plastisol produces livelier action, but it also involves a compromise. Excessive softener may reduce tear resistance, affect the stability of thin sections, increase surface tackiness or promote deformation when the lure is stored incorrectly. The aim is not to make the plastisol as soft as possible, but to find the softest recipe that still holds the hook securely, retains its shape and provides the required durability.

Liquid softener or complete SUPER SOFT plastisol? Liquid Softener is suitable for precisely fine-tuning a specific recipe. If you need a greater and more easily repeatable change in firmness, it may be more practical to use complete Softbaitfishing Cristallo STP SUPER SOFT plastisol or mix it with a firmer base plastisol. Complete plastisol provides a clearly defined base material, while the softener is intended for gradual fine adjustments.

How to use the softener correctly: first homogenise the base plastisol thoroughly. Add the measured quantity of Softener to cold plastisol before heating and mix slowly until the material is completely uniform. Avoid vigorous stirring or whipping, which would introduce unnecessary air into the plastisol.

For your first workshop test, we recommend preparing several small separate samples:

→ first sample: 1 ml of softener 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 is not a universal dosage specified by the manufacturer. It is a controlled method for finding a suitable ratio for a particular plastisol and lure shape. Pour the individual samples into the same mold, allow them to rest flat for at least 24 hours and then compare their action, strength, hook retention and buoyancy.

Always follow the processing temperature specified for the original plastisol. Do not heat the softener separately or add it to plastisol that is already hot. Wear protective gloves, long clothing and eye protection, and ensure sufficient ventilation when working with plastisol.

Frequently asked questions – Softbaitfishing Plastisol Softener STP FLOATING

What does STP FLOATING mean?

It identifies the softener version designed for the Cristallo STP floating plastisol system. The manufacturer also offers a separate ETP SINKING version for its sinking plastisol range.

Does STP FLOATING guarantee that the finished lure will float?

No, not automatically. Buoyancy is affected by the complete recipe, lure shape and final rigging. Pigments, glitter, salt, hooks and jig heads can all significantly change how the finished lure behaves in water.

How much softener should I add?

The manufacturer does not specify a universal conversion between the amount of softener 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.

What is the difference between Softener and SUPER SOFT plastisol?

SUPER SOFT is a complete plastisol with a defined base firmness. Softener is an additive that allows you to gradually soften another base plastisol and create your own intermediate level of softness.

Can I add the softener to hot plastisol?

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

Can I use STP FLOATING Softener in ETP SINKING plastisol?

The manufacturer offers a separate ETP SINKING version for its sinking plastisol range. If you need to maintain control over a sinking recipe, use the corresponding ETP softener.

Is this softener also a Worm Oil?

The manufacturer sells it as a plastisol softener and does not specify its use as a surface oil, bag lubricant or scent carrier. Use a dedicated Worm Oil for these purposes.

Can I use it with plastisol from another manufacturer?

Test any such combination in a small separate batch first. Plastisol formulations vary between manufacturers, and the same ratio may not produce the same softness, clarity or buoyancy.

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

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