Thread: Help the Newb

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Hi everyone. I'm new to mask making so I'm looking for the easiest way to break into the hobby. I found this kit that looks fairly complete:
Deluxe Latex Mask Making Kit - Halloween Mask Making Kits - LATEX MASK MAKING KITS - The Monster Makers
I'm sure I will find myself needing more supplies, but this cover most of the bases...or is it overkill?

It's hard to NOT want to buy that kit. That looks pretty sweet with the Paashe airbrush and everything. The thing is...After you sculpt the master, you have to go through a complicated process to get the negative mold that you will be pouring the latex into. I think they are usually made of plaster because it wicks the right amount of moisture from the latex in order to get a nice, thick skin. But maybe they discuss that in that book that comes with the kit.

The actually give a step-by-step on the site:
The MonsterMakers: How to Make a Monster Part 2!
They really seem to cater to beginners which is nice. You have to start somewhere. The cool thing is you can also use this to make foam filled heads after the latex layer cures if you make a two-peice mold.

Looks great, and I'm sure it works for 90% of folks out there, but I also know it would not work properly for me because I have a freakishly large head. So, that little dummy you build on would be too small. I've always wanted to get someone to cast my bust so I have one to work with, but those with the willingness to do so are few and far between.

(Seriously, I can't wear standard adjustable ballcaps. And finding a fitted hat to work is a challenge as well)

That sucks. And the thought of shoving straws up my nose while the shell hardens...I don't know. Kinda freaks me out.

Why? Is your nose all ready too busy?
After the first straw you can say, "That's the last straw!" and pretend you are in a 1940 movie.
You need to have a certain patience and attention to detail to be able to make a nice mask, following directions is also a "plus"!
Do much of this you will find quite a difference in latex, especially as your mask gets some age on it. Some latex turns very hard very soon.

Originally Posted by Gym Whourlfeld

After the first straw you can say, "That's the last straw!" and pretend you are in a 1940 movie.

Wah, wah, wahhhhhhh(in tone of trumpet)

On a serious note, Is there a difference in the quality of latex? I would assume, like everything else, you get what you pay for. Most of the heads I will be making will be foam filled, so I don't care as much about them hardening up. I would imagine this will help the paint last longer do to less flex.