Old latex mask that lost flexibility. Any way to restore?

pumpkinheadedskeleton · Jul 24, 2019

I have an old mask I got years ago. It's a giant or a wizard or something. Not sure. It didn't have any packaging. I'm looking to make a giant robed figure for my yard display.(PVC build) The mask is enormous. Unfortunately the chin has folded up and the cheeks are sunken in. But the latex or plastic is thick and stiff and any attempt to push it out and reform it fails. Is there any way to make it flexible again? If not, does anyone have any suggestions for what I can use to push out the mask and make it look fuller? I have a Styrofoam head that I wrapped fabric around several times but it's still too small. I'm about to try great stuff around the styrofoam head, let it dry and then carve it to fit but I'm worried that the great stuff might ruin the mask. From the top of the head to the chin is about 2 feet. Any suggestions?

Engineerchic · Jul 24, 2019

I would try bubble wrap to create a form (roll into a log shape, tape it down, add more blobs to create contours and skim with a final layer of thin/small bubble wrap).

You could also try making a frame with 1/2" hardware cloth but it tends to be scratchy and beats up your hands pretty quick. It is also something you would want to cover with something smoother/softer.

Last idea ... pantyhose stuffed with fiberfill. That could be a base for it and if you use the hip-to-knee section thats probably long enough for the head (including the chin). With a long needle or upholstery needle you could sew on protrusions for cheeks and chin. And tight stitching in other areas can make areas narrower or sunken. If you get poly fiberfill it would hold up well in rain, just want it to be bone dry before storing it.

Old latex mask that lost flexibility. Any way to restore?

Top Contributors this Month

Recommended Communities