[dpyer]

Hi there! Super new to both this forum and DIY, but I've had my heart set on this project for a bit and finally decided to go through with it.
So my friends and I are planning a Wasteland Party for when it's safe to gather again, and we're all planning on dressing for different apocalypse scenarios. I'm a big fan of eldritch horror, so I'm going the cultist route. One of my friends works in wildlife management, so she has access to a ton of ethically sourced bones, and was able to get me a really nice deer skull for a mask (among other misc. bones for accessories). I've sterilized, whitened, and secured the teeth back in place... but I have no idea how to make it a mask. I figure a t-shaped strap (like the back of a hockey mask) is the way to go, but I honestly have no idea how to affix it to the bone without ruining the skull. Any advice?
Thanks so much!

 

[Frankie's Girl]

This sounds like it could be lovely!

I have not done this, but I would likely get a practice bone/skull (if your friend may have a broken piece or skull?) and use a fine drill bit and use a leather harness setup with screws attached to the bone on the inside. You can also add some adhesive inside the drilled holes before adding small screws so it stays more secure and won't wiggle loose (be sure to allow drying time before adding any significant strain/weight).

If you are worried about damaging the skull however in any way, I'd suggest using strong embroidery thread or tight weave yarn in interesting colors around the skull - through the eye sockets for instance and extending both up and to the sides - to create a harness or allow you to weave into the structure to create a webbing like attachment to allow you to use the knotting structure points like large metal rings or even bleached wood pieces for an interesting, organic effect.

Macrame is likely something that could complement this really well. Here's a quick tutorial on some easy knots:

 

[dpyer]

This sounds like it could be lovely!

I have not done this, but I would likely get a practice bone/skull (if your friend may have a broken piece or skull?) and use a fine drill bit and use a leather harness setup with screws attached to the bone on the inside. You can also add some adhesive inside the drilled holes before adding small screws so it stays more secure and won't wiggle loose (be sure to allow drying time before adding any significant strain/weight).

If you are worried about damaging the skull however in any way, I'd suggest using strong embroidery thread or tight weave yarn in interesting colors around the skull - through the eye sockets for instance and extending both up and to the sides - to create a harness or allow you to weave into the structure to create a webbing like attachment to allow you to use the knotting structure points like large metal rings or even bleached wood pieces for an interesting, organic effect.

Macrame is likely something that could complement this really well. Here's a quick tutorial on some easy knots:

Thanks so, so much! I REALLY love the macrame idea... I think that'll give it a super cool look! A test bone is a good idea, too... I should've thought of that lol Thanks again!!