Whats the best molding clay for beginners?

i suddenly had this urge to sculpt but I'm on a low budget so i bought $4 crayola molding clay. i experimented & very much liked the results. problem is, it stays soft. whats the best clay to use for beginners? no chisels, i prefer working with my hands while its doughy but i want it to eventually harden instead of melting to a pile of goo. i'd like something with color or that i can dye... my figures are mostly female s if that helps any in determining the clay best suited for me.