Thermoplastic

For what it's worth, thermoplastic was available years ago (and
most likely still is) in sheets for use by orthotists and physical
therapists, who used it to make custom-molded splints and braces. I
mention this because this product may be more reasonably priced for
the health care industry than it is for jewelers (isn't
everything?). 

It’s reusable. If you have a splint made or a friend does, ask the
therapist for the scraps they cut off as they shape the splint
(especially the non-perforated sections). Reuse the material in the
splint when no longer needed. It also makes a tough, non-marring
surface for forming when molded over an appropriately-shaped wood
form.

Pam Chott
http://www.silverhawk.com/ex99/chott