Reinforcing a latex mask?

[nickytea]

Is this possible?
I want to get one of the Joker's Goon masks from rubies; but I know they are going to be VERY flimsy.

Has any attempted to make a thin latex mask more rigid?
Would painting resin inside work? Build it up with foam? Styrene strips?

 

[Funky]

Will this be for display or for wear?

 

[nickytea]

In theory, it would be for wear. However, if you have any unique ideas for display, I'd love to hear 'em.

 

[Funky]

Well, in theory, I'd seem to think that you could brush several coats of liquid latex (at your local costume shop). But it would take quite a bit and a little time consuming, but it should work well. It will add 'thickness' to the interior wall of the mask and you should still be able to wear it.

 

[roboprop]

I agree, liquid latex would be the way to go. :thumbsup

 

[Jayn]

Liquid latex over strips of lt. nylon (pantyhose) fabric works well to reinforce at weak spots

 

[fettster]

you can use cheese cloth, cut into strips and dipped into the latex to reinforce. works just like plaster bandages

 

[ob1al]

I've used several layers of latex (with thickening agent) inside, then fiberglass/resin for display pieces. It works quite well, just do a little at a time.

 

[kdawg1]

What about one of those unpainted mask you see at craft stores and use the latex to attach it.

 

[Jawafive]

you can use cheese cloth, cut into strips and dipped into the latex to reinforce. works just like plaster bandages

Correct! Easy to do and cheap.

 

[nickytea]

Thanks for all the advice guys; I'm definitely going to try the cheesecloth and liquid latex. (they sell big bottles of it at my local costume/makeup shop.)

 

[coofunkcurly]

For what it is now worth I am also recommending the cheesecloth and latex route. But when that advice already comes from fettster and The Batman you know it's good.:thumbsup

 

[nickytea]

Excellent, this really sounds like the way to go!
Thanks!

For what it is now worth I am also recommending the cheesecloth and latex route. But when that advice already comes from fettster and The Batman you know it's good.:thumbsup

 

[TallDarkandDisfigured]

You could contact Ioncanon about a foam filling. I know he does them not sure if he has foam at the moment though...

 

[freakengine]

I did the liquid latex routine to a flimsy Rubies Greedo mask and it worked well. I wish I'd thought of the gauze, though. I'm sure that would make the whole process easier.

 

[cavedwellar]

You need to make sure the mask you're trying to reinforce is latex to begin with, Rubies uses mostly vinyl on their new masks these days, and latex won't stay adhered to vinyl.
I haven't seen one of these up close so I can't say for sure.

 

[nickytea]

You need to make sure the mask you're trying to reinforce is latex to begin with, Rubies uses mostly vinyl on their new masks these days, and latex won't stay adhered to vinyl.
I haven't seen one of these up close so I can't say for sure.

oooh, I'll have to check that.