September 16 is traditionally celebrated Play-Doh Day. This is clay for modeling, similar to plasticine. The inventor of this children’s pastime is Joe McVicker, Ohio, Cincinnati.

This plasticine was originally used as a wallpaper cleaner. Joe’s father, having his own business, had a good profit on it. But in 1949, he died, and his son and brother-in-law had to continue the family business.

Starting in 1955, sales of Play-Doh plummeted, prompting McVicker to offer playdough in kindergarten and for student science projects. Plasticine quickly gained popularity, and the inventor officially gave the name to the game Play-Doh. In 1958, Joe tried to patent his invention, but the application was approved only in 1965.

Plasticine is presented in several colors – white, yellow, blue and red. He was officially inducted into the Toy Hall of Fame in 1998.