Thread: reusing old costumes on frames for props

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Originally Posted by matrixmom

I remember one thread where the props feet had shoes and the they were filled with cement so the prop would not budge! This might work for you.

That's not a bad idea. On our driveway and sidewalks, I used a piece of plywood, attached two 2x4s with holes drilled for the PVC legs, then screwed the PVC into the 2x4s. When I had time, I would cut the soles out of shoes and place the tops over the 2x4s - more often, I would buy rubber feet or shoe covers that matched the hands and mask of the prop.

Wherever possible - even at the edge of the driveway, the rebar solution is simple and absolutely the most effective way to keep the prop from moving.

Originally Posted by pumpkinheadedskeleton

LT Scare, THANK YOU! I stored all my best masks over styrafoam heads this year. I thought it would keep the shape better.
Going to go dig them out tonight and do what you said.

Good idea. In some cases the foam head / mask chemical reaction will ruin the mask too. I've had some masks distort a bit. On the other hand, I've had some very thick full head masks not react at all - probably coated on the inside with something when we bought it. As I said, these days I tend to use one gallon milk jugs for heads now - never a problem and the price is right. Recycle your haunt - HA, HA.

Also - on most of my masks (if I'm sure I won't be wearing them again), I use a silicon glue to attach thick shirtboard (cardboard) behind the eyes, then glue LEDs in the center of the eye. If the eye socket is deep enough, glue a piece of thin, black nylon material in front of the LED and it will make it look less mechanical and more maniacal (fuzzy). Red LEDs, of course are most popular, but I use colors appropriate to the prop. Most of my Haunted Mansion Ghosts have shades of bluish green LEDs, but two have angry looking faces, so I use red LEDs on them.