A latex mask is a great way to make a costume.The form of the mask should be shaped using foam, clay, and liquid latex.You can decorate your mask after that.You can use fake hair, glitter, or fabric to make the mask exactly how you want it.You can either buy the supplies at a craft store or online.
Step 1: Pick a design for your mask.
You will need to know the general shape of the mask before you start making it.If you are replicating a character or fantasy being, you can either stick to a human head shape or accentuate the features.A regular human face, a favorite popular culture character, or something Halloween related are some design options for your mask.You could make a mask for your friend to play a prank on, for example, your favorite superhero, an alien, or a scary zombie.
Step 2: The basic shape can be created with foam pieces on a mannequin head.
The beginning of your mask will be the foam mannequin head.Cut pieces of foam to the desired shape and length, and tape these on the foam mannequin head to accentuate features.There are 2 pieces of tape for each foam piece.It doesn't matter if the foam or tape is messy.All that matters is the general shape, so you won't see this in your finished product.Minor imperfections can be hidden by the clay that you will use next.Try adding foam pieces around the ears, over the nose, or extending from the top of the mannequin to create horns.The foam mannequin head has larger features.Smaller features can be added using the clay.Duct tape is strong enough to hold the foam in place.
Step 3: The mannequin head should be covered with modelling clay.
Make sure the foam mannequin head is covered with modelling clay by placing it over the entire head.The clay can be easily made with your body heat.Before you start using it, make sure the modelling clay is moist.Take a chunk of modelling clay and roll it into a cylinder.Put the cylinder in half.Add more water if the cylinder breaks.The clay is good if the cylinder bends smoothly.If you prefer, you can leave holes around the eyes, nose, and mouth.
Step 4: The modelling clay can be used to shape facial features.
The clay can be used to add smaller features to the foam mannequin head.Stick the pieces of clay on the mannequin with your hands.There are some facial features that you can make with modelling clay.
Step 5: There is a smooth substance over the clay.
You can use your hands to cover the clay.A thin layer will do.It will be easier to remove the latex mask later on.
Step 6: There are layers of liquid latex over the clay.
To paint a layer of liquid latex over the mask, use a paintbrush.Before painting on the next layer, use a blow dryer to dry each layer.It takes 1-2 minutes for liquid latex to dry without the help of a blow dryer.The process will take around 20 seconds if the blow dryer is used.It should be kept on a low setting.The number of layers depends on how thick you want your mask to be.The ideal starting point is 20 layers.Specialty mask making latex can be found in specialty craft stores or online.This latex is thicker than regular liquid latex, so you won't have to do as many layers.
Step 7: The mask needs to be removed from the mannequin head.
Pull the latex mask away from the mannequin head when you have reached your desired thickness of latex.To avoid damaging the mask, be gentle and remove it slowly.The mask should be able to pull off the mannequin easily.
Step 8: The base coat should be applied to the mask.
The majority of your mask will be a color.To cover the mask with paint, use a paintbrush.latex masks tend to have the best results when it comes to paint.You can either use a blow dryer or wait for the base coat to air dry.
Step 9: Once the base coat is dry, add other colors.
You can add color to your mask.To avoid ruining the lighter shades, clean your paintbrush well between each color.
Step 10: There are features to the mask.
All of the decorative touches can't be done with paint.Depending on the style you are going for, try fake hair, glitter, or fabrics.Make sure that the decorative features you add are secured.Glue is a good glue.The stage where your mask will come to life is here.Follow your design carefully with the appropriate colors if you have a set plan for what you want your mask to look like.Try different colors with your mask.There are many different accessories that you can add to the mask.Add glasses, a hat, fake fur, spikes, and a hood.You can get inspired to decorate your mask by visiting your local craft store.
Step 11: The mask should be sprayed with a protective spray.
Make sure the paint on your mask is dry.Take your mask to aventilated area and coat it with a protective spray.Take your mask outdoors if you don't want to use it inside.The spray will help your mask last a long time.