tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29778383667116706702024-03-13T00:29:38.998-04:00Working with My HandsMarie Messinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09846127796453347405noreply@blogger.comBlogger23125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2977838366711670670.post-22418694797961233872016-08-23T14:48:00.001-04:002016-08-23T14:51:17.644-04:00Goblin King Art Print Now Available!<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eG7Vk5UM4SY/V7yYqSL85vI/AAAAAAAAAhs/wgfX9QfROEgckna7G2SHdvTGFZwDVTqdACLcB/s1600/forsalepic_DB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="344" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eG7Vk5UM4SY/V7yYqSL85vI/AAAAAAAAAhs/wgfX9QfROEgckna7G2SHdvTGFZwDVTqdACLcB/s640/forsalepic_DB.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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Awhile back, I made a <a href="http://mariemessina.blogspot.com/2016/02/paintings-for-prints-poll.html" target="_blank">post </a>with a poll asking which prints people would be most interested in. Well, it sure took me awhile, as I had a baby in between this process, but I've finally gotten my first run of prints completed. <br />
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The first painting I chose to produce prints of was my Jareth the Goblin King painting titled "Within You." I actually kept this painting for myself and many friends and even people who have visited my home have expressed interest in this painting. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">13" x 23" archival fine art print "Within You"</td></tr>
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There are only 10 available as I'm printing them myself and to do it right is quite costly. They're archival and will last 100-150 depending on care given to the print. 9 different inks used on premium luster paper. They look absolutely amazing and make a fine replacement for the original. The margins are 1" wide and the overall dimensions are 13" x 23." I would have loved to do an actual reproduction to size which was 18" x 36" but I just don't have the room for a printer that large! <br />
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If you'd like to purchase a fine art print for your home collection, head on over to Etsy! They cost $81.33 with a USPS priority mail shipping cost of $7.85 (actual cost). <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/460679170/13-x-23-fine-art-print-of-jareth-from?ref=shop_home_feat_1" target="_blank">Please click here to be redirected to my Etsy shop!</a> <br />
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<b>Thanks for Reading and Happy Creating!</b><br />
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<i>If you found this post helpful please share it with your friends! I also love a comment! You can get up to the minute updates by following me on Facebook by <a href="http://www.facebook.com/mariemessinaart" target="_blank">clicking here</a>. I'm also on Youtube now; please subscribe by visiting my <a href="http://www.youtube.com/mzzystu" target="_blank">channel here</a>.</i>
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Marie Messinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09846127796453347405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2977838366711670670.post-72122253767968999942016-02-22T11:35:00.001-05:002016-02-22T11:35:20.623-05:00Making Another Goblin King Jareth Mask Part 1<div style="text-align: left;">
My original Jareth mask has long since been sold, but I have had the mask up on a made to order basis on Etsy for awhile now. I get a huge amount of inquiries about how long it would take to have one made, but over the past few years I've been super busy and not really into the swing of things creatively. I've often shut down offers for a commission on one. Crazy, I know, but when you're not feeling it, you're not feeling it. <br />
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There was one person however, who was very adamant about getting a mask done. There was one hitch however in that they wanted a mask that was more accurate to the one in the movie, with that boney arm stick holder. At first I was a bit apprehensive as I know the original mask weighed more than I thought a stick could handle. I also wasn't sure how to securely attach a stick to a mask that has weight to it or what to use for a stick even! <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The original Jareth mask</td></tr>
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I decided I'd try to make the mask as light as I could, which proved difficult using the methods I prefer to create with. Still, I used thin layers of plasterwrap to keep the weight down as much as I could. I had to make a new horn mold because I misplaced the original one somehow. I was able to make the horn a lot thinner this time which was pretty cool not only for weight but accuracy. <br />
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I also tried a new sculpting compound for forming the shape on the mask, called Amaco Sculptamold. I can't say it was any easier to work with and it certainly came out just as lumpy as the Celluclay normally does. I have lots of sanding work to do on this one. I really need to find something entirely new that doesn't weigh a ton. I have tried Apoxie-Sculpt in the past year and it weighs a lot as well. All polymer clays weigh too much and paper clay always tends to crack on me. Totally open to all suggestions here!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Work in progress</td></tr>
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In its current state, it's a lumpy mess, but the gesso + sanding will help that out. It would sure be nice to be able to skip that whole series of steps though. I attached the stick to the side of the mask first with hot glue and then further attached it with the modeling compound. I am likely going to go over it again with some plasterwrap cloth pieces to ensure it sticks. I'm very nervous about it falling off. I searched for a ton of tutorials and could only find how to attach sticks to tiny little fabric masks, not something that weighs a pound or more.<br />
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I also opted for a thicker dowel instead of the thin one which would have looked better. I'd rather play it safe than sorry though and until I can get the weight down, it's just going to have to be this way! <br />
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<b>Thanks for Reading and Happy Creating!</b><br />
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Marie Messinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09846127796453347405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2977838366711670670.post-42038710491386084102016-02-15T13:34:00.000-05:002016-02-15T13:34:38.685-05:00Chilly Down: Making a Fiery Mask from Labyrinth Part 1<div style="text-align: left;">
I received a commission request through Etsy about making a Fiery mask.I had to giggle to myself as they explained that they were the ones who took their heads off in the movie. I thought, "This is the Labyrinth master you're talking to...of course I know who they are!"<br />
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I funny thing is, I had already planned to make a Fiery mask long ago, like probably right around the time I first created this blog. I even had a nose piece in production to make this guy.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DS6n7tokUAM/Vr4OhKCN3KI/AAAAAAAAAg8/ZpUuklptEHQ/s1600/ref.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="288" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DS6n7tokUAM/Vr4OhKCN3KI/AAAAAAAAAg8/ZpUuklptEHQ/s640/ref.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chilly Down with the Fire Gang!</td></tr>
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I sent her the picture to give her an idea of what I meant, and she said that was the exact one she had in mind! Isn't it weird when things line up like that? I have a lot going on, but I figured this was something I had planned to do anyway, and this was just an impetus to get it done. <br />
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The one snag was that the original craft fur I had ordered years ago turned out to be an incredible flop for the purposes I wanted it for. It was fly away and stringy, nasty stuff. Nothing like the beautiful hair I used for Ludo's mane. I decided right away I wanted to see if I could find that fur again to use for this instead. I did find it on Ebay, and ordered the colors I needed right away!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--n4EIdGEvM8/Vr4Qak-WM0I/AAAAAAAAAhQ/T5lL7NtwSrg/s1600/progress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--n4EIdGEvM8/Vr4Qak-WM0I/AAAAAAAAAhQ/T5lL7NtwSrg/s400/progress.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From the side - check out the neat ridges around the eyes!</td></tr>
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I then got to attaching the nose I had made to to a base mask made of plastwrap cloth. I made the nose out of cardboard and masking tape to hold it together and hotglued it the plastwrap. Then you have to go over it again with plasterwrap cloth to make sure it's all nice, secure, and uniform. I employed a new technique with this mask that just kind of happened. To basically fold the strips of plastercloth, then wet them, and then attach them. It has to be done super quickly or else the cloth wants to fall off, but it has an awesome look to it. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From the front</td></tr>
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This is what the mask looks like so far, and now I'm mostly waiting for the fur to come in the mail so I can figure out how I'm going to weave in the white and gold fur to the red fur.I'm going to add some molding to the outside of the 'big beak' to help give it a more muzzled look. It should come together nicely.<br />
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Thanks for Reading and Happy Creating!</div>
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<i>If you found this post helpful please share it with your friends! I also love a comment! You can get up to the minute updates by following me on Facebook by <a href="http://www.facebook.com/mariemessinaart" target="_blank">clicking here</a>. </i>
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Marie Messinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09846127796453347405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2977838366711670670.post-66096383692976632732016-02-05T12:52:00.000-05:002016-02-05T12:53:29.936-05:00Waylaid by Sewing Machine and Darkness Started<div style="text-align: left;">
Phew! What a week it's been. I had planned to post around Wednesday, but I got sidetracked on a project and didn't get any painting done until Thursday night. The previous week I had put in an order for fabric to make <a href="http://www.aestheticnest.com/2010/08/sewing-heirloom-cut-chenille-baby.html" target="_blank">this beautiful baby blanket</a>. I expected it to take some time to create, but not nearly as much as it did. As it was, it took up about two days of my week, but at least it's done now. Next time I will make a simpler blanket as I'm not sure all the extra work was worth it.<br />
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Then last night, I finally got some alone time and got my Darkness painting started for the Fantasy wall. I got a good bit of work done, but still have a ways to go. I'd be happy to finish it over the weekend.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Darkness in Progress from Legend</td></tr>
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<b>Thanks for Reading and Happy Creating!</b></div>
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<i>If you found this post helpful please share it with your friends! I also love a comment! You can get up to the minute updates by following me on Facebook by <a href="http://www.facebook.com/mariemessinaart" target="_blank">clicking here</a>. </i>
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Marie Messinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09846127796453347405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2977838366711670670.post-55741517611057056582016-02-01T13:08:00.000-05:002016-02-05T12:52:50.955-05:00Paintings for Prints PollI finally bought an Epson printer and am looking at having prints available of my artwork very soon. As paper and ink for the printer can be very expensive, especially considering some of the off sizes of many of my paintings, I wanted to get an idea of which paintings people were most interested in seeing as a print before ordering.
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If one isn't listed here, please feel free to comment which one you'd like to see instead on here or on Facebook.
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Feel free to pick more than one!<br />
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<script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.easypolls.net/ext/scripts/emPoll.js?c=56af9c5ae4b0012bd712ecc5"></script><a class="OPP-powered-by" href="https://www.murvey.com" style="text-decoration:none;"><div style="font: 9px arial; color: gray;">survey software</div></a>
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<b>Thanks for Reading and Happy Creating!</b>
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<i>If you found this post helpful please share it with your friends! I also love a comment! You can get up to the minute updates by following me on Facebook by <a href="http://www.facebook.com/mariemessinaart" target="_blank">clicking here</a></i>
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Marie Messinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09846127796453347405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2977838366711670670.post-1849249052423730812016-02-01T06:00:00.000-05:002016-02-01T06:00:00.767-05:00Ladyhawke painting finished - Titled "Cursed" on 18" x 24"<div style="text-align: left;">
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And it's done! This is the next in my latest series to fill my living room wall with 80's fantasy art. It's a painting of Rutger Hauer and of course his Ladyhawke - from the movie..Ladyhawke. I always love to paint birds and this hawk was fun. <b> </b><br /><br />I've already started the next painting which is going to be yet another painting of Tim Curry from his role as Darkness from the movie Legend. I've actually done one already in the past as a commission for a friend of mine. You can see that painting <a href="https://www.facebook.com/mariemessinaart/photos/a.426247460740746.99665.181517458547082/512294415469383/?type=3&theater" target="_blank">here</a> if you so choose.<br />
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<b>Thanks for Reading and Happy Creating!</b><br />
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<i>If you found this post helpful please share it with your friends! I also love a comment! You can get up to the minute updates by following me on Facebook by <a href="http://www.facebook.com/mariemessinaart" target="_blank">clicking here</a>. </i>
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Marie Messinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09846127796453347405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2977838366711670670.post-53746854499701566812016-01-28T06:00:00.000-05:002016-01-28T06:00:10.557-05:00Why Not Add Painting to the Mix?<div style="text-align: left;">
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For as long as I've had this blog, I've kept the topic strictly to maskmaking. That can be a little tricky, especially when I'm not making and masks. I haven't been doing much of anything the past year or so as it seems everything in life has been hectic. I finally got off my butt and started working on some paintings recently though.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Within You - 18" x 24" acrylic on canvas</td></tr>
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As many of you may know already from looking at my blog, I've taken a lot of inspiration from the movie The Labyrinth. I grew up with David Bowie being Jareth and his passing was really hard on me. I'm normally the type of person that doesn't care when celebrities die. I can't even count the amount of times I've caught myself tearing up though just listening to his music or thinking about any of many associations he has for me. I knew I had to paint him as homage for all the memories though. It wasn't much of a surprise that I settled on a shot of Jareth - specifically from the part when Sarah is in the stair Labyrinth at the end and Within You is playing. There is this part where it shows Jareth and he just looks so beaten as he realizes that he's never going to win Sarah over. It wasn't quite the same sentiment I was feeling, but the pain was certainly there in realizing he was never going to create again. I'm tearing at the eyes again writing this and I though the topic was finally safe! So below is the painting and I'm happy with how it turned out. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MjB1V26jQQc/VqlddobMOCI/AAAAAAAAAdM/1DELYFNwk9o/s1600/room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="295" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MjB1V26jQQc/VqlddobMOCI/AAAAAAAAAdM/1DELYFNwk9o/s400/room.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Marie's Favorite 80s Fantasy Movie" wall</td></tr>
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It's currently hanging on the wall in my living room. I noticed right away how empty the rest of the wall looked and I thought, <i>'I need to make more'</i>. I decided that this would be a "Marie's Favorite 80s Fantasy Movie" wall. I set forth to create a layout that Jareth would be proud of. The set will include scenes from The Neverending Story, Legend, Willow, The Dark Crystal, and Ladyhawke. It will also be an ode to the lovable bad guy - which is to say there will be no "good guys" on this wall. Like I said, it had to be a wall Jareth would be proud of! <br />
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Keep posted for updates soon! And from now on this will be a painting and a maskmaking blog. I will have to update the about page soon, but for now I'm working on the next painting!<br />
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<b>Thanks for Reading and Happy Creating!</b><br />
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<i>If you found this post helpful please share it with your friends! I also love a comment! You can get up to the minute updates by following me on Facebook by <a href="http://www.facebook.com/mariemessinaart" target="_blank">clicking here</a>. </i>
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Marie Messinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09846127796453347405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2977838366711670670.post-35514817959629617602014-10-21T20:20:00.002-04:002014-10-21T20:21:57.260-04:00It's been awhile: Making a Ludo Mask Part 2<div style="text-align: left;">
<b> </b><i>This is part 2 of this post series - please <a href="http://mariemessina.blogspot.com/2012/03/revisiting-labyrinth-making-ludo-mask.html" target="_blank">check here</a> to see part 1 if you haven't already read it. </i><br />
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Wow, it's certainly been a long time! Over 2 years later, and I'm picking up this mask and continuing where I left off. While I did focus on painting for awhile, I've since found myself in quite a rut with it and so I'm diving back into masks. I also sold my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/103475300/goblin-king-jareths-mask-labyrinth-hand?ref=shop_home_feat_1" target="_blank">Jareth</a> mask this month, and sales always boost my confidence. I've been working with a bunch of new materials and thus have a ton of tutorials planned.<br />
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Back to the matter at hand: Ludo! I was a little confused at first as I've been out of sculpting for so long, but decided to go with my tried and true <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000F8V2BI/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B000F8V2BI&linkCode=as2&tag=worwitmyhan-20&linkId=QIM5EDBGVZUWAGSD%22%3EActiva%20Products%20CelluClay%20Instant%20Papier%20Mache%20Clay,%205-Pound,%20White%3C/a%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=worwitmyhan-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B000F8V2BI" target="_blank">celluclay</a> to start molding Ludo's brow. Something I had never considered originally, was Ludo's nose. He has an almost dog-like nose which doesn't really mesh well with the size of a human nose. I considered leaving it out and just keeping it the human shape, and then though, whatever this is an adaptation - it doesn't have to be identical! I'm keeping the dog nose!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VX9ECskX2VI/VEaGnFkFGLI/AAAAAAAAAXQ/ogpL4sA8h0Y/s1600/ludo1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VX9ECskX2VI/VEaGnFkFGLI/AAAAAAAAAXQ/ogpL4sA8h0Y/s1600/ludo1.jpg" height="242" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The resulting brow and doggy nose.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Another problem I ran into at this point was that I was just not confident in the cellulclay's ability to make the specific shapes I wanted for this mask. I planned for grooves on the nose, I planned for a better brow. This wasn't cutting it. And I will say again, Celluclay is an amazing product, but fine detail is not it's fortay. So, now I'm thinking, what can I use that's lightweight, but durable. I did some research and found a good number of options. <br />
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One thing I found was 'old-fashioned' paper mache, which uses tissue paper and glue. I did a couple of layers onto the mask to see if it would offer up what I needed and while it added a great texture and did smooth up the celluclay, it wasn't going to give me the rise I needed quick enough (and two layers was quite time consuming). <br />
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So, I opted to use <a href="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=worwitmyhan-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B00CDB8272" target="_blank">Sculpey Ultralight</a>. I made up a new brow for Ludo with a bunch of nice wrinkles and creases. I made the creases over the bridge of his nose, and added some nice shape for his nose. After all the finishing touches were completed, I put him in the oven to bake.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PmbC4E6qNkw/VEaItTIXS_I/AAAAAAAAAXc/fW8-SiJExHY/s1600/ludo2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PmbC4E6qNkw/VEaItTIXS_I/AAAAAAAAAXc/fW8-SiJExHY/s1600/ludo2.jpg" height="237" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Luuuuudo....baked? (in the oven!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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After Ludo baked, I let him cool and proceeded to sand everything down. Now it's time for the fun part! Painting and finishing up the details. And this mask has a huge detail that I just couldn't wait to use!! I loved the texture the paper mache added to the horns and cheeks. In hindsight, I would have liked to go over the brow with the mache too to make it look more uniform. It's almost too smooth compared to the cheeks here.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sqFRr80GU3c/VEaKbNrgYhI/AAAAAAAAAXw/BDb6kvXVQI8/s1600/ludo3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sqFRr80GU3c/VEaKbNrgYhI/AAAAAAAAAXw/BDb6kvXVQI8/s1600/ludo3.jpg" height="198" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The base colors blocked in.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So onto that huge detail I was talking about! From part 1 of this post I mentioned finding this really cool hair in the perfect shade for Ludo. Now it's FINALLY time to use it! I had to cut the swatch I had to fit around the horns, but it came out so awesome. The color is perfect and it looks great on the mask. My husband and I joked that Ludo had the original emo hairstyle xD!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yerFdkJpvIk/VEaPcTI2AXI/AAAAAAAAAYA/s_uOz6G1q-0/s1600/ludo%2B4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yerFdkJpvIk/VEaPcTI2AXI/AAAAAAAAAYA/s_uOz6G1q-0/s1600/ludo%2B4.jpg" height="245" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ludo with hair! So cool!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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And all the hard work was done! I did some touch ups on the horns and spots I missed paint. And sealed this beauty up. The inside of the mask is lined with flannel for comfort and it's attached with elastic. For as many details as this mask has, it actually came out very light - so I managed to meet my goal! This mask is for sale on my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/208048610/ludo-mask-inspired-from-the-labyrinth?" target="_blank">etsy shop - please head over and take a look</a> :)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_Ru7eZMrGJk/VEb3zaAxL1I/AAAAAAAAAYo/TJAtVag9y2Q/s1600/main_sell.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_Ru7eZMrGJk/VEb3zaAxL1I/AAAAAAAAAYo/TJAtVag9y2Q/s1600/main_sell.jpg" height="484" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finished Ludo Mask</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b>Thanks for Reading and Happy Creating!</b><br />
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</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>If you found this post helpful please share it with your friends! I also love a comment! You can get up to the minute updates by following me on Facebook by <a href="http://www.facebook.com/mariemessinaart" target="_blank">clicking here</a>. I'm also on Youtube now; please subscribe by visiting my <a href="http://www.youtube.com/mzzystu" target="_blank">channel here</a>.</i>
</div>
Marie Messinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09846127796453347405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2977838366711670670.post-7330398584380198632012-03-23T06:00:00.003-04:002012-03-23T06:00:10.253-04:00How to Use Plaster Wrap Cloth for Mask Making<div style="text-align: left;">Last post I mentioned creating a post to show how to use plaster wrap cloth which is a very convenient method to make masks without the gunk and mess of using papier mache. I recorded the entire process of wrapping the cardboard frame for my Leviathan mask which was almost an hour total. I had to speed up the frames big time to make it fit under Youtube's 15 minute rule and so it's not quite an instructional video, but more of a time lapse to show you how you could use it and the general idea.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/N3j_BJiktsw" width="640"></iframe></div><br />
Because of this, I'll add in some basic instructions to go along with it. In my video I used a cardboard frame (see this post for details : <a href="http://mariemessina.blogspot.com/2012/03/how-to-make-cardboard-frame-for-mask.html">http://mariemessina.blogspot.com/2012/03/how-to-make-cardboard-frame-for-mask.html</a>) but you can also create one off of your face or on an armature. The bottom line is you need some sort of support for the plaster wrap to lay on before it dries.<br />
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<b><u>What you'll need:</u></b><br />
<ul><li>Plaster Wrap Cloth -- available at craft stores or @ Amazon <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000XAOPFI/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=worwitmyhan-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B000XAOPFI">Rigid Wrap Plaster Cloth</a><img alt="" border="0" class=" llxudafrxqevsftatpno llxudafrxqevsftatpno llxudafrxqevsftatpno llxudafrxqevsftatpno llxudafrxqevsftatpno llxudafrxqevsftatpno" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=worwitmyhan-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B000XAOPFI" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></li>
<li>Scissors any kind will do but if you don't have any at all grab some here <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0026ZPX36/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=worwitmyhan-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B0026ZPX36">Soft Grip Scissors</a><img alt="" border="0" class=" llxudafrxqevsftatpno llxudafrxqevsftatpno llxudafrxqevsftatpno llxudafrxqevsftatpno llxudafrxqevsftatpno" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=worwitmyhan-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B0026ZPX36" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></li>
<li>a tub for warm water -- I use an old true (cool) whip container</li>
<li>a towel</li>
<li>a plate (paper is fine)</li>
<li>a surface to work on</li>
</ul><br />
Once you've decided how you're going to do your piece, the rest is very simple.<br />
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1. Take your roll of plaster cloth and cut a bunch of different sizes out. I do thick 1 inch pieces as well as thinner ones. I also do a bunch of large triangle shaped pieces. Put all of the pieces on your plate for easy access.<br />
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2. Fill your tub with hot water. By the time you're finished the water will probably be luke warm so might as well give it the longest go by starting hot. The box suggests warm water and I have definitely noticed that the material is more flexible when warm versus cold.<br />
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3. Set up you work area with your plate of plaster cloth, your tub, a towel and even keep your roll of plaster cloth and scissors off to the side in case you run out and need to cut more or need a specific shape. Make sure you keep your water and plaster well and separate because if you get water on your plate you will end up with hard patches all over your strips! The towel is usually well put between the bowl of water and the mask so that you can let excess water drip from the piece before applying if needed.<br />
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4. After that you're ready to go. Just dip a strip in the water and let the excess off on the towel. Place the strip on whichever surface and smooth it down with your finger. Make sure that there are little to no holes showing through the cloth and that you have a smooth white surface.<br />
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<b>Thanks for Reading and Happy Creating!</b><br />
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<br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>If you found this post helpful please share it with your friends! I also love a comment! You can get up to the minute updates by following me on Facebook by <a href="http://www.facebook.com/mariemessinaart" target="_blank">clicking here</a>. I'm also on Youtube now; please subscribe by visiting my <a href="http://www.youtube.com/mzzystu" target="_blank">channel here</a>.</i> </div>Marie Messinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09846127796453347405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2977838366711670670.post-47480840425184142362012-03-20T15:19:00.000-04:002012-03-20T15:19:14.249-04:00Just a Quick Note...<div style="text-align: left;"><b> </b>...to let you all know that I'm taking a bit of a break here this week. I haven't had much inspiration to get any work done as I got sick yet again with stomach flu last week and it has been taking me some time to get back to normal. <br />
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As soon as I get my spunk back I'll continue the progress posts and tutorials!<br />
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<b>Thanks for Reading and Happy Creating!</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i> </div>Marie Messinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09846127796453347405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2977838366711670670.post-69842767325474567122012-03-13T08:00:00.001-04:002012-03-13T08:00:04.428-04:00Revisiting the Labyrinth: Making a Ludo Mask Part 1<div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SZoamxfmdSg/T17G-vyVonI/AAAAAAAAAQc/ZaF-RsnXJ2A/s1600/labyrinth_ludo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="313" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SZoamxfmdSg/T17G-vyVonI/AAAAAAAAAQc/ZaF-RsnXJ2A/s640/labyrinth_ludo.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
What is it about the Labyrinth that just gets my creative juices flowing? It might be that I watched this movie so much as a child and therefore a lot of the creatures formed this basis in my brain for creativity and creation. Foremost, it seems all of Henson's characters in the Labyrinth, aside from the humans, would make good masks! Think about it! Ludo? Excellent mask idea! A Firey (Chilly Down)? Heck yes (I actually have a Firey mask that is not too far along but in serious planning stages too!)!<br />
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To start I worked on making a horn out of polymer clay while studying a picture of Ludo. I have used regular water-based clay before but it almost always seems to break on me. I then have to dig out the rest of the clay and it's just no fun! The great thing about having a nice polymer clay horn is that I can reuse it over and over again too!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Yha3fAaHcak/T17Gr9JtFHI/AAAAAAAAAQU/QHTzHPMIt7U/s1600/IMGP2673.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Yha3fAaHcak/T17Gr9JtFHI/AAAAAAAAAQU/QHTzHPMIt7U/s400/IMGP2673.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The horn getting ready to be baked</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
While the horn was baking it was time to work on the base for the mask. I knew I wanted to cut this mask off above the lips and went about making it accordingly. I don't have a lot of pictures of the in between process here because I moved along pretty quickly. But I started by making the shape on one of my armatures. I then realized by looking at Ludo's head and horns that I would need to add an extension to the forehead to pin the horns too. I cut out some cardboard for this and in many series of letting the plaster dry and then adhering on top of it, got the horns and everything put together.<br />
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</b><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--Xndisbjb4Y/T17HkxMq51I/AAAAAAAAAQk/6njXq-KMVlo/s1600/IMGP2676.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--Xndisbjb4Y/T17HkxMq51I/AAAAAAAAAQk/6njXq-KMVlo/s400/IMGP2676.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kind of reminds me of a witch doctor!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>The big problem I had once this was all said and done, was that it was kind of flimsy in between the horns on each side of the forehead. I ended up reinforcing the whole frame of the mask as well as the horns and forehead with some wire. This went very well, but next time I will not go with the figure 8 shown below and will instead stick with the edges and through the horns. I will have to spend some time making the wire flush with the surrounding mask or else it's going to dig into your forehead. Sometimes I wish I'd think of these things ahead of time, but a lot of creation is trial and error! <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YN0zmD5HbRo/T17IzlyIu5I/AAAAAAAAAQs/lRPpl8LlruY/s1600/IMGP2688.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YN0zmD5HbRo/T17IzlyIu5I/AAAAAAAAAQs/lRPpl8LlruY/s400/IMGP2688.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wire frame added for support</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Now for the biggest hold up on this mask!! I've got my total base ready to go now for the most part and the only thing I can think of, even though I have plenty of sculpting yet to do, is of Ludo's muppet hair. I must have spent 5 hours alone just researching the different furs available out there. I started by looking up shag fake fur and could only find people selling the right color in yards for $30 or more! I would find smaller bits on etsy but never the right color. I looked into dying my own faux fur and found that apparently the only way to die dark colors in acrylic fur is very toxic and not suggested for beginners. Lovely!<br />
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I finally found a solution in the most unlikely of place: fly fishing! Yes, that's right... fly fishing. There is more variety in color for fisherman to choose from then there is for crafters to choose from! I found the perfect color, orangutan rust, in a brand called Psuedo Hair. It's not quite the right texture so much as the Mongolian shag I found was, but at least I don't have to spend $30 for it, more like $3.50 which is way more affordable! I also found another brand called Extra Select that has a finer version of this fur that I will be using for my Firey mask. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TUy9fnLYEX8/T17Pq9MwH7I/AAAAAAAAAQ0/_vvP6ITYLTA/s1600/Pseudo-Hair-272-Orangutan-Rust.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="229" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TUy9fnLYEX8/T17Pq9MwH7I/AAAAAAAAAQ0/_vvP6ITYLTA/s320/Pseudo-Hair-272-Orangutan-Rust.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Orangutan Rust Pseudo Hair</td></tr>
</tbody></table>So now I'm waiting for my order of fur to come, and will work on sculpting the facial features onto the mask base in the meantime. I'd like to get this done either by next week or the week after.<br />
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<b>Thanks for Reading and Happy Creating!</b><br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>If you found this post helpful please share it with your friends! I also love a comment! You can get up to the minute updates by following me on Facebook by <a href="http://www.facebook.com/mariemessinaart" target="_blank">clicking here</a>. I'm also on Youtube now; please subscribe by visiting my <a href="http://www.youtube.com/mzzystu" target="_blank">channel here</a>.</i> </div>Marie Messinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09846127796453347405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2977838366711670670.post-78267804787702359932012-03-09T17:23:00.003-05:002012-03-09T18:39:50.640-05:00How to Make a Cardboard Frame for Mask Making<div style="text-align: left;">This was pretty busy day and so at 3:30pm I am just now getting to writing my blog post! I have been working on creating a pretty complex frame for a mask concept. I am part of a group on Facebook with a lot of cool and talented artists and each month we have a theme that we vote on. This month the theme was blue and so I thought I would work on a blue mask. I had a lot of trouble coming up with an idea, but after much thought, decided to work on a Leviathan mask. Leviathan is in many different myths from Biblical to Babylonian to Greek. It's depicted usually as a dragon, but the game Final Fantasy turned it into a sort of sea serpent. This is the version I'm going with and more specifically the model used from Final Fantasy VIII (8). <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QYmK4wlZjrc/T1pvKKguQwI/AAAAAAAAAP0/dQyQD6uqyRw/s1600/TranscendentArtistsCollectionFinalFantasyVIII5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QYmK4wlZjrc/T1pvKKguQwI/AAAAAAAAAP0/dQyQD6uqyRw/s320/TranscendentArtistsCollectionFinalFantasyVIII5.jpg" width="282" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leviathan Statue from FF8</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
As you can see, this is far from the simplest design I could have picked, but the thing I love most about mask making is the problem solving part! There are many ways you can do them and figuring out how is so fun -- for me at least. Let's get started on making a frame!<br />
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<u><b>What you'll need:</b></u><br />
<ul><li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002BT17KU/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=worwitmyhan-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B002BT17KU">Cardstock, 8.5 x 11 Inch</a><img alt="" border="0" class=" jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=worwitmyhan-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B002BT17KU" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></li>
<li>Cardboard (<span style="font-size: x-small;">or if you can't find any around the house you can order it here)</span> <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000ZJMS9W/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=worwitmyhan-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B000ZJMS9W">24 x 48 Cardboard Sheets</a></li>
<li>Picture frame backs or chipboard is useful if you can find it too. <img alt="" border="0" class=" jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=worwitmyhan-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B000ZJMS9W" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005KRSWM6/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=worwitmyhan-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B005KRSWM6">X-ACTO Knife</a><img alt="" border="0" class=" jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=worwitmyhan-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B005KRSWM6" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0026ZPX36/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=worwitmyhan-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B0026ZPX36">Scissors</a><img alt="" border="0" class=" jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=worwitmyhan-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B0026ZPX36" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0050081EW/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=worwitmyhan-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B0050081EW">Roll 3/4'' Masking Tape</a><img alt="" border="0" class=" jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg jqrkhgmyzvhmdkpqowcg" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=worwitmyhan-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B0050081EW" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003U9J0LS/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=worwitmyhan-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B003U9J0LS">Vanity Mirror </a>(something like this that's hands-free and can be put on your desk to check frequently for shape and sizing)</li>
</ul><br />
So, I started by breaking down the model on this statue that was released for the game. You can see the parts of the face: a diamond shape in the center, a sharp tip and almost rectangular sides, a central fin, and 2 big wings on both sides. Adapting it to a human face is something you just have to make judgement calls on. The way I do it may be different from how you would do it. For the base part of the face, I came up with a pattern that looks like this drawn on cardstock and cut out. Make sure you label them too so that you don't get confused later. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PrhE4TpiNjg/T1p26GwlqkI/AAAAAAAAAP8/RrCfnCfyXns/s1600/IMGP2691.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PrhE4TpiNjg/T1p26GwlqkI/AAAAAAAAAP8/RrCfnCfyXns/s400/IMGP2691.JPG" width="363" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The frame pattern on cardstock</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<br />
I got this shape by trying it on continually. The cardstock is also very flexible so you can wrap it over your face easily. Check your eyeholes, check that everything looks right before continuing on. If you have a friend, it really helps to try it on them too! Tape it to their face and make sure everything looks exact!<br />
<br />
When you're done, trace the patterns out on some cardboard. For this specific pattern and because the beak is so sharp of a point, I wanted to use a material that would not get flimsy when wet like cardboard does. I used the back of a picture frame (I think it's made of chipboard) to cut out the central shape for this reason and it is not the easiest thing to do. I went back and forth between the xacto knife, the scissors, and my husband's pocket knife! For any piece that you want to be easily mold-able, use the cardboard. Keep in mind, that the cardboard you trace this pattern onto will not be as flexible as the cardstock until wet. Also, make sure you use your Xacto knife to cut the cardboard. It work way better than the scissors!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YnTLz_JVgSc/T1p5RdVhXeI/AAAAAAAAAQE/0oQm-Ih9oF8/s400/IMGP2695.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Main frame pieces cut out in cardboard and chipboard</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Once it's all cut out, you can start to shape it a bit and tape it in place with your masking tape. I use masking tape because if you screw up, then you can easily take it off. It's good for temporarily holding as well - like when you're tracing. Do the same thing you did with the cardstock pattern, and squish and bend the cardboard to make it fit right. But don't worry too much about it being rigid, as I mentioned before that it will loosen up quite a lot when you add your material to it (papier mache or plaster wrap cloth). To keep the cardboard from jutting out on the sides, I kept it taped with a long piece of masking tape in approximately the right shape.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Next, I made the central fin pattern, and traced that out on cardboard two times. I fitted it and cut off any excess. You find that making your own patterns is a lot of trial and error. I had to cut a little divot in my fin pieces because of the dip in between the V shape at the top of the head. Once it was all secured, it's now starting to look more like Leviathan! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-92X7sU1tWP4/T1p-eG5BO4I/AAAAAAAAAQM/ewOUVNhQd2o/s1600/IMGP2698.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="366" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-92X7sU1tWP4/T1p-eG5BO4I/AAAAAAAAAQM/ewOUVNhQd2o/s400/IMGP2698.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Central fin attached</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>I'll now go on to follow the same routine to make the wings on both sides of the helmet style mask. You can use this method to bring just about anything to life, but it is especially helpful for hard, straight edges -- like the pointy beak, fin, and wings. You can always build upon it as well with something like celluclay as I will with this mask to work in details. Once this mask is finished, I'll be sure to link to it here so you can see the finished piece.<br />
<br />
After writing this post, I'm realizing that I still haven't explained how to use something like plaster wrap cloth or paper mache to cover a frame like this and make a mask. I'll be sure to write that for you guys next week and I can even use this mask to show you!<br />
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<br />
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<b>Thanks for Reading and Happy Creating! Please leave a comment if you have a moment! </b><br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>If you found this post helpful please share it with your friends! I also love a comment! You can get up to the minute updates by following me on Facebook by <a href="http://www.facebook.com/mariemessinaart" target="_blank">clicking here</a>. I'm also on Youtube now; please subscribe by visiting my <a href="http://www.youtube.com/mzzystu" target="_blank">channel here</a>.</i> </div>Marie Messinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09846127796453347405noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2977838366711670670.post-18863960856234770412012-03-06T13:54:00.000-05:002012-03-06T13:54:49.330-05:00Making A Rhesus Monkey Inspired Mask<div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5b_4uWjSz50/T1ZZVzh2GfI/AAAAAAAAAPs/MSYJuwDLW-k/s1600/Modeled_Final.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="632" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5b_4uWjSz50/T1ZZVzh2GfI/AAAAAAAAAPs/MSYJuwDLW-k/s640/Modeled_Final.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
A friend of mine took an interest in my mask making and said she would love to see some creepy skull-like masks. Having never made one, I got to looking around at different animal skulls. I found that a lot of monkey skulls are pretty interesting in terms of shape. While I don't think the result came out too creepy looking, I still really like it. The close resemblance to a skull makes it seem so primitive.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2hvoMQ8RshY/T1ZCjkNtwYI/AAAAAAAAAPU/zE6DLrYIKio/s1600/sp3137.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2hvoMQ8RshY/T1ZCjkNtwYI/AAAAAAAAAPU/zE6DLrYIKio/s320/sp3137.jpg" width="282" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo from <a href="http://www.connecticutvalleybiological.com/" target="_blank">CVB</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
I made the mask out of Sculpey polymer clay and referenced a picture of a Rhesus monkey skull (above) and just built it up from scratch on my face armature. The ear canal areas on both sides of the mask were a bit tricky to pull off with something as soft as sculpey but I managed. <br />
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<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HrjsMpc3LF8/T1ZCWX6oosI/AAAAAAAAAPM/DwIckjDz80Y/s1600/IMGP2396.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HrjsMpc3LF8/T1ZCWX6oosI/AAAAAAAAAPM/DwIckjDz80Y/s400/IMGP2396.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
When this mask was done baking, I had to move it temporarily because the tinfoil armature it was baked on rolled a bit. The results were some cracks in the mask. At first I was very upset thinking of all the wasted time, but then I thought I might use it to my advantage. I super glued the cracks back together and held them to make sure they wouldn't release. The seal felt solid so I went ahead with painting it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BmZW44hNl0w/T1ZF18S-UYI/AAAAAAAAAPc/TzMJsiljSyk/s1600/IMGP2577.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BmZW44hNl0w/T1ZF18S-UYI/AAAAAAAAAPc/TzMJsiljSyk/s400/IMGP2577.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
I started off with a gray gesso and worked up my paint in many layers so that it would have a gun metal silver and black look. I darkened the areas that cracked as well and I loved the way it came out. I varnished it up and let it dry before the padding was added to the back of the mask for comfort. This is my first time using padding instead of felt, and I liked the feel very much. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--Lm7tJGqGms/T1ZGGLz_JwI/AAAAAAAAAPk/FKMoacEbny8/s1600/IMGP2582.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--Lm7tJGqGms/T1ZGGLz_JwI/AAAAAAAAAPk/FKMoacEbny8/s400/IMGP2582.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
All that's left is to attach it the head for wearing! I used ribbon for the photo, but I will probably switch it to elastic when I get the time as it would be a lot easier to put on. This was a smaller project than most of my masks, but definitely a fun one. I may have to make some more of these in the future. <br />
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<b>Thanks for Reading and Happy Creating!</b><br />
<br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>If you found this post helpful please share it with your friends! I also love a comment! You can get up to the minute updates by following me on Facebook by <a href="http://www.facebook.com/mariemessinaart" target="_blank">clicking here</a>. I'm also on Youtube now; please subscribe by visiting my <a href="http://www.youtube.com/mzzystu" target="_blank">channel here</a>.</i> </div>Marie Messinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09846127796453347405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2977838366711670670.post-20655753200385560092012-03-02T14:54:00.006-05:002012-03-06T14:29:41.121-05:00How to Create a Round Beak or Feature for Your Mask<div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>There may come a time, sooner than later, where you realize that it is not so easy to make every feature you had dreamed of out of clay or cardboard to mold over. While I was attempting to make a rounded beak for my Owl Mask, I tried cardboard and just couldn't get the right shape (not to mention it would have gotten soggy when wet which would have warped the shape either way). So after spending 4 hours of my day trying to make this rounded owl's beak, I finally found that this method worked the best.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Making an Armature out of Aluminum Wire and Super Sculpey</b></span><br />
<br />
I've added product links to both dickblick and amazon so if you have a place you prefer to shop you can choose either one. I know I bounce back and forth myself!<br />
<u><b><br />
</b></u><br />
<u><b>What you'll need: </b></u><br />
12 gauge aluminum wire <span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.jdoqocy.com/click-5677712-10495307?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.dickblick.com%2Fproducts%2Fsculpture-house-armature-wire%2F%3Fwmcp%3Dcj%26wmcid%3Dfeeds%26wmckw%3D33406-0000&cjsku=33406-0000" target="_blank">Sculpture Armature Wire</a><img border="0" class=" ygtbohzpkkwvjtlhxbjk ygtbohzpkkwvjtlhxbjk ygtbohzpkkwvjtlhxbjk ygtbohzpkkwvjtlhxbjk ygtbohzpkkwvjtlhxbjk ygtbohzpkkwvjtlhxbjk ygtbohzpkkwvjtlhxbjk ygtbohzpkkwvjtlhxbjk ygtbohzpkkwvjtlhxbjk" height="1" src="http://www.awltovhc.com/image-5677712-10495307" width="1" /> or <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003LTGS4E/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=worwitmyhan-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B003LTGS4E">Aluminum Craft Wire</a></span><img alt="" border="0" class=" ygtbohzpkkwvjtlhxbjk ygtbohzpkkwvjtlhxbjk ygtbohzpkkwvjtlhxbjk ygtbohzpkkwvjtlhxbjk ygtbohzpkkwvjtlhxbjk ygtbohzpkkwvjtlhxbjk" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=worwitmyhan-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B003LTGS4E" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br />
<a href="http://www.dpbolvw.net/click-5677712-10495307?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.dickblick.com%2Fproducts%2Fsuper-sculpey%2F%3Fwmcp%3Dcj%26wmcid%3Dfeeds%26wmckw%3D33217-3716&cjsku=33217-3716" target="_blank">Super Sculpey @ DB</a> or <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0026C1T8C/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=worwitmyhan-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B0026C1T8C">Super Sculpey @ Amazon</a><img alt="" border="0" class=" ygtbohzpkkwvjtlhxbjk ygtbohzpkkwvjtlhxbjk ygtbohzpkkwvjtlhxbjk" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=worwitmyhan-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B0026C1T8C" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br />
tinfoil<br />
small pliers<br />
scissors (to cut wire)<br />
paper towels<br />
rubbing alcohol (for smoothing)<br />
sandpaper (rough and fine)<br />
an oven.<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Step 1:</span> Make the basic frame for your shape</b><br />
<br />
This is the hardest part! I have tried this with thinner wire and it was impossible. I have also tried it without pliers and it was equally impossible. Don't worry too much about exactness here as a lot of the excess shape can be sanded off. Use the pliers to crimp the wire down firmly where it connects.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HZstX8vPmkw/T1EdpGVUdPI/AAAAAAAAAOk/Iy1R-kOemhY/s1600/IMGP2566.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="295" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HZstX8vPmkw/T1EdpGVUdPI/AAAAAAAAAOk/Iy1R-kOemhY/s400/IMGP2566.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Step 2:</span> Cover your frame with wireform</b><br />
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This can also be hard depending on the shape. Try to keep the wireform as flat as you can so it doesn't crimp up in unwanted sections - like it did on mine! Use the pliers to clamp down that wire around the edges. You can use them to flatten a bit too if needed.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tI8Awm_QsNk/T1Eed-WJdfI/AAAAAAAAAOs/Qq_JM3p7iRA/s1600/IMGP2567.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tI8Awm_QsNk/T1Eed-WJdfI/AAAAAAAAAOs/Qq_JM3p7iRA/s400/IMGP2567.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Step 3: </span>Cover your finished frame with Super Sculpey</b><br />
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The easiest way to do this is to eye about enough to cover your frame and work it in your hand until it is soft. Then roll it out with a rolling pin so it's nice and even. Don't roll it out too thin so that you have room to sand. Place the rolled out sculpey over the frame and press it up under the edges. Make sure all underneath the frame (the part nobody sees) is nice and tight by pressing it firmly; make sure the sides are how you want them to look for the most part.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mrgQcb6v1PA/T1EfNDmWBiI/AAAAAAAAAO0/Mgv2pM1hmeE/s1600/IMGP2569.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="301" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mrgQcb6v1PA/T1EfNDmWBiI/AAAAAAAAAO0/Mgv2pM1hmeE/s400/IMGP2569.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><b><span style="font-size: large;">Step 4:</span> Smooth and bake your feature</b><br />
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Use some wadded up paper towels doused in rubbing alcohol to smooth out your shape. When you've got it about right, get some tinfoil to make a wad big enough to support your piece in the oven. Especially if your shape has a point like mine did, you will need it to be perched off the surface and kept from rolling around! Follow the directions on your sculpey package for temperature and baking time.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FRNBOfXANi0/T1Ef_exO0AI/AAAAAAAAAO8/B3YahOy5FP0/s1600/IMGP2568.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="350" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FRNBOfXANi0/T1Ef_exO0AI/AAAAAAAAAO8/B3YahOy5FP0/s400/IMGP2568.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Step 5:</span> Sand it</b><br />
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Once it's done cooking, let it sit for awhile before touching it. I have touched sculpey too soon and it will actually crack so to be safe, just let it be for a few hours before you try to sand it. I used 120 grit sand paper to sand my beak into perfection. The frame originally had some lumps so it was nice to be able to just sand them off the top part. Use a circular motion to keep it level and even. I finished it with some fine grit sand paper. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tPAH-DlaolI/T1Eg74gSJDI/AAAAAAAAAPE/rM2GoNEOxl4/s1600/IMGP2570.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="311" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tPAH-DlaolI/T1Eg74gSJDI/AAAAAAAAAPE/rM2GoNEOxl4/s400/IMGP2570.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Step 6:</span> Seal and decorate</b><br />
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Seal your beak with whatever you have available. I used some clear coat acrylic paint, others like to use polyurethane, but they both do the same thing. You can even seal it with gesso if you need the base to be white for painting. I painted mine silver and mounted it to my owl mask. There may be an easier way to do this that I have yet to discover, but for now this is a simple enough method of getting the job done.<br />
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<b>Thanks for Reading and Happy Creating!</b> <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lJj_3iLqf34/T1EZm3GWbqI/AAAAAAAAAOU/cahVRnb6Hi8/s1600/IMGP2600.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="530" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lJj_3iLqf34/T1EZm3GWbqI/AAAAAAAAAOU/cahVRnb6Hi8/s640/IMGP2600.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>If you found this post helpful please share it with your friends! I also love a comment! You can get up to the minute updates by following me on Facebook by <a href="http://www.facebook.com/mariemessinaart" target="_blank">clicking here</a>. I'm also on Youtube now; please subscribe by visiting my <a href="http://www.youtube.com/mzzystu" target="_blank">channel here</a>.</i> </div>Marie Messinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09846127796453347405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2977838366711670670.post-20667719399000816752012-02-28T13:53:00.001-05:002012-02-29T14:15:16.987-05:00Bal Masque 2012 at the Appalachian Brewing Company<div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1GPm0uYySac/T00YjTi70sI/AAAAAAAAANE/c2NvogjwI1Y/s1600/ballogo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="452" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1GPm0uYySac/T00YjTi70sI/AAAAAAAAANE/c2NvogjwI1Y/s640/ballogo.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Alright, finally back in business and working on a new post! It feels like I've been down and out for far too long. I had a small recess between getting well and then getting sick again though where I got to attend the Bal Masque! This event is hosted by the Harrisburg Art Association and they have a small site dedicated to it here: <a href="http://www.artassocofhbg.com/bal2012.htm">http://www.artassocofhbg.com/bal2012.htm</a>. Since I haven't worked on much while being sick, I thought it might be a good idea to talk about this awesome event instead.<br />
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I had worked on a few masks in anticipation of this event, and it's that funny that when it came down to it, I went for simple and comfortable versus intricate. In the future, I'm going to have to make sure that I take into consideration how good a mask feels when you wear it as well as if it's going to stab other people in the eye when you walk by! All things I had not considered prior to this masquerade.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ae8d938CB7I/T00atT9BeKI/AAAAAAAAANM/IGG4UkEnXGc/s1600/ourmasks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ae8d938CB7I/T00atT9BeKI/AAAAAAAAANM/IGG4UkEnXGc/s320/ourmasks.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our masks - grainy pic, but the only one I have!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
My husband wore the Bird Splicer Mask and I wore a last minute bit I made to match my dress. I wanted to wear the Labyrinth mask, but I was worried about knocking the horns on someone or something and possibly breaking it. The place ended up being a lot more open than I had expected though and I could have pulled it off! <br />
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The other mistake I made was in the rush to get ready, I completely forgot about the camera and we ended up using my mother in laws iphone to take all of our pictures. Most of them came out quite horribly though because it was dark and some were kind of grainy as well. So I borrowed some pictures for the sake of this post not looking like an ashtray. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6SVb5CqJ5XA/T00dCK1PA4I/AAAAAAAAANc/SY7coMo5WKM/s1600/2birds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6SVb5CqJ5XA/T00dCK1PA4I/AAAAAAAAANc/SY7coMo5WKM/s320/2birds.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two birds getting photo bombed!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Anyway! My husband and I were originally going to go as Splicers from Bioshock. He played the part well and I got the retro part down of my costume, but I wasn't able to have a finished mask in time for us both to be splicers after some technical difficulties with my Owl Mask. All was fine though and the event was a lot of fun!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iaiVMQECKI0/T00cRHx6b6I/AAAAAAAAANU/tIFMNOeF-cg/s1600/331762_739193538403_34206270_35886333_1091420712_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iaiVMQECKI0/T00cRHx6b6I/AAAAAAAAANU/tIFMNOeF-cg/s400/331762_739193538403_34206270_35886333_1091420712_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dancing!</td></tr>
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</div><div style="text-align: left;">They had good food, a bar, dancing, music, a silent auction, and even palm readings which I didn't see while I was there or I probably would have gotten one! A lot of the events we didn't know about until they actually happened, like the costume contest which was a blast. I met a lot of really great people there as well who had some amazing costumes and masks! It gave me so much new inspiration to work with!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y65CREogmyg/T00d5j4LPMI/AAAAAAAAANk/x234mfEyo8g/s1600/delete+1131.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y65CREogmyg/T00d5j4LPMI/AAAAAAAAANk/x234mfEyo8g/s400/delete+1131.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A pair of stinkers! These guys were so cute. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
If you're local I would definitely recommend giving this a try next year! I haven't been to anything like it and it was truly enjoyable. I'll have to make sure I get my costume and mask ready with ample time to spare for this coming year! I'll leave you with some more pictures of the event because there were so many good ones, I wasn't able to fit them all here.<br />
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<b>Thanks for Reading and Happy Creating!</b><br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-638iAxPh1yk/T00eQfPUWGI/AAAAAAAAANs/ibR2_xisg7c/s1600/331762_739193533413_34206270_35886332_1439927262_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-638iAxPh1yk/T00eQfPUWGI/AAAAAAAAANs/ibR2_xisg7c/s400/331762_739193533413_34206270_35886332_1439927262_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">His mask was really amazing up close.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bQtr43jm3lw/T00eTbO6FrI/AAAAAAAAAN0/n7MB2ysAYF8/s1600/331762_739193548383_34206270_35886334_1376671391_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bQtr43jm3lw/T00eTbO6FrI/AAAAAAAAAN0/n7MB2ysAYF8/s320/331762_739193548383_34206270_35886334_1376671391_o.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Awesome costume!</td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NdsBbK2Qtfg/T00eYJY-LbI/AAAAAAAAAN8/gbBywKhfKKw/s1600/422917_739194666143_34206270_35886346_2038784106_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NdsBbK2Qtfg/T00eYJY-LbI/AAAAAAAAAN8/gbBywKhfKKw/s400/422917_739194666143_34206270_35886346_2038784106_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="300" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pimp and "Friend" LOL</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kQ_XhKpld-E/T00eaCnDeII/AAAAAAAAAOE/QVqE9EOw7Is/s1600/427239_739194346783_34206270_35886340_64443114_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kQ_XhKpld-E/T00eaCnDeII/AAAAAAAAAOE/QVqE9EOw7Is/s400/427239_739194346783_34206270_35886340_64443114_n.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Loved these two costumes and accessories!</td></tr>
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<b> Some Photos taken from: </b>T. Tran and the <a href="http://www.artassocofhbg.com/" target="_blank">AHH</a><b> </b><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>If you enjoyed this post please share it with your friends! I also love a comment! You can get up to the minute updates by following me on Facebook by <a href="http://www.facebook.com/mariemessinaart" target="_blank">clicking here</a>. I'm also on Youtube now; please subscribe by visiting my <a href="http://www.youtube.com/mzzystu" target="_blank">channel here</a>.</i><br />
<i> </i> </div>Marie Messinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09846127796453347405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2977838366711670670.post-85962380623355560192012-02-23T01:16:00.002-05:002012-02-23T01:16:21.319-05:00Being Sick is So Frustrating!I am so sorry for missing a whole weeks worth of posts! <br />
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I will try to get back on track this Friday if not by this coming Tuesday. I felt better by Saturday and made it to my masquerade ball only to fall ill again. I have been sick since and it feels like I'm never going to get well again! Needless to say I haven't had much of a chance to work on anything to even blog about :( I will get back on track as soon as I'm better!Marie Messinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09846127796453347405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2977838366711670670.post-76299620494527449572012-02-15T15:16:00.002-05:002012-02-29T14:16:08.669-05:00Labyrinth Inspired Goblin King Mask Part 2<div style="text-align: left;"><i>This is part 2 of this post series - please <a href="http://mariemessina.blogspot.com/2012/01/introduction-to-mask-making-and-goblin.html" target="_blank">check here</a> to see part 1 if you haven't already read it. </i><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fAFPwRCPuSg/TzxgoNqL9lI/AAAAAAAAAMw/EGyg4DfuQ0Y/s1600/Finished_Model_Shot_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fAFPwRCPuSg/TzxgoNqL9lI/AAAAAAAAAMw/EGyg4DfuQ0Y/s640/Finished_Model_Shot_2.jpg" width="540" /></a></div><br />
It's taken me forever to finish this mask partly because I've been working on several at the same time and also because I was very particular about the sculpting process. I also had to go through ordering a new Dremel after trying to find a replacement battery charger for a week or so! For better or worse. it's finished now! I don't have as many pictures as I'd like to have, but I can explain through the rest of the process.</div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
I ended up covering the mask with modeling paste to smooth it out a bit more, and then painted a couple layers of white gesso on as well. Once all was dry I sanded it (with fine paper) and started painting in my actual colors. It was funny to use painting techniques I would usually use on a canvas, on a 3d surface!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qR0fWQR9zag/TzvmKi4PinI/AAAAAAAAAMQ/aCISH-kX6sE/s1600/IMGP2578.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qR0fWQR9zag/TzvmKi4PinI/AAAAAAAAAMQ/aCISH-kX6sE/s320/IMGP2578.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I had already decided to make this mask more like that of worn copper. I wanted it to be very metallic as well. I mixed several colors for the facial part of the mask,and used a metallic gold/ brown color for the horns. Once these layers were set, I went in and added my shading which I used dark brown for on both accounts. In the below picture, you can see the difference in the horns, where the right horn has been shaded with dark brown while the other is still that bright gold color. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-POK1L7Vfvhs/TzwQ5rDOlgI/AAAAAAAAAMg/zIRKfU48fJk/s1600/IMGP2583.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-POK1L7Vfvhs/TzwQ5rDOlgI/AAAAAAAAAMg/zIRKfU48fJk/s320/IMGP2583.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Once all of the coloring had been completed, I painted on a layer of matt varnish. And finally I found out why you have to wait 24 hours between layers or even before trying to do any work with it. Varnish takes forever to dry! And it's awfully sticky stuff! I was trying to do too many things at once because I was in a rush to get this blog post up after being sick, but I soon found that I couldn't rush it as this varnish even after 3 hours was still sticking to everything. So make sure you let your varnish dry! For future reference, I may just invest in some clear coats of acrylic paint so that I don't have to use varnish anymore for finishes. <br />
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Once the varnish finally did dry, I was able to attach some nose pads along with the felt lining and the elastic headband. You quite literally have to do this all at the same time and it can be a pain. When all is said and done, I really like the way this mask turned out. It has a personality of it's own which is what I like to go for with inspired masks. Not necessarily a direct copy, but a close brother of the Goblin King.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nE0EDtjIuvg/TzwPGazp4pI/AAAAAAAAAMY/d5Nut-Vpjhs/s1600/Finished_Pro_Shot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="386" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nE0EDtjIuvg/TzwPGazp4pI/AAAAAAAAAMY/d5Nut-Vpjhs/s640/Finished_Pro_Shot.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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<b>Thanks for Reading and Happy Creating!</b><br />
<br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>If you found this post helpful please share it with your friends! I also love a comment! You can get up to the minute updates by following me on Facebook by <a href="http://www.facebook.com/mariemessinaart" target="_blank">clicking here</a>. I'm also on Youtube now; please subscribe by visiting my <a href="http://www.youtube.com/mzzystu" target="_blank">channel here</a>.</i><br />
<i> </i> </div>Marie Messinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09846127796453347405noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2977838366711670670.post-4765380142701212892012-02-10T08:00:00.006-05:002012-02-29T14:17:32.307-05:00How to Make an Alginate Mold of Your Face<div style="text-align: left;"><b> </b><i>This post is part of a series dealing with making armatures. To see the first part on making a plaster cloth mold<a href="http://mariemessina.blogspot.com/2012/01/how-to-make-your-own-armature-for-mask.html" target="_blank"> click here</a>.</i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pq0CJ5YOuXM/TzQ4Bkv2ZkI/AAAAAAAAAK0/soSNrRVhoYM/s1600/IMGP2535.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pq0CJ5YOuXM/TzQ4Bkv2ZkI/AAAAAAAAAK0/soSNrRVhoYM/s640/IMGP2535.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
I'm going to make one big disclaimer and warning here. <b>Do not attempt this unless you think you are capable of being completely blind and unable to speak while breathing through a straw for at least 30 minutes!!! You will also need a friend to help you as it is not possible to do this alone.</b><br />
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I honestly didn't think this would be a big deal, but it takes an incredibly long time for your helper to get everything together and on your face. And during that time you are stuck to drool all over yourself while not being able to see or talk. It really sucks. It was a cool experience to have done once, maybe twice at the absolute most, but no more than that! Get your mold and cast your face and make any future molds off of that face and not your own!<br />
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Now that I've gotten that out of the way, let's move along!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Alginate / Stone Method </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Step 1</b>: </span>Since you'll want this to lay flat when it's cast, you may have to go into your hair a bit. I used <b>petroleum jelly and it worked ok for my eyebrows</b>, but not my hair. I was able to get it out by pulling it out (with no pain) but there may be better ways to do it. One person suggested hair conditioner with cholesterol in it. Make sure to use something to protect your hair though. Anything is better than nothing!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IdMaOJQrDrY/TzR4DZ2KC6I/AAAAAAAAAK8/BOPXwAtTA7A/s1600/IMGP2522.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IdMaOJQrDrY/TzR4DZ2KC6I/AAAAAAAAAK8/BOPXwAtTA7A/s320/IMGP2522.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Greasy Hair!</span></td></tr>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Step 2: </span>Protect your nostrils</b> by placing tiny amounts of cotton balls in them. Don't push them up; just let them kind of hang loose. Also get a straw and cut to a good size for you to be able to comfortable hold in your lips and breathe through. Bite down on it loosely so that you do not have this huge circle between your lips.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bbdHJF8DGn8/TzR4UahOuCI/AAAAAAAAALE/Ziq5oJTlDW0/s1600/IMGP2523.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bbdHJF8DGn8/TzR4UahOuCI/AAAAAAAAALE/Ziq5oJTlDW0/s320/IMGP2523.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No, it's not a booger.</td></tr>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Step 3:</span> Measure and mix your alginate</b>. To elaborate, alginate is a product you can purchase online or from a dentist. I'm lucky and my godmother works for a dental lab and so she was able to order it directly for me.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hjg8Jm5-vok/TzSCr5-ADSI/AAAAAAAAALM/m5cBiZQkzrU/s1600/IMGP2525.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hjg8Jm5-vok/TzSCr5-ADSI/AAAAAAAAALM/m5cBiZQkzrU/s320/IMGP2525.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aglinmax alginate, plaster mixing bowl, spatula, and measuring cups.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
I'm not sure what the deal was with the alginate I used. It must have been fast setting because I could barely mix it and it was already drying. I'm hoping if I ever use the stuff again that I can get a different brand. My husband had to mix 2 batches separately to do my entire face.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2Tb9WvHy-g0/TzSCyvVtY0I/AAAAAAAAALU/lwwcZ_GwQYg/s1600/IMGP2532.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2Tb9WvHy-g0/TzSCyvVtY0I/AAAAAAAAALU/lwwcZ_GwQYg/s320/IMGP2532.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Step 4: </span>Spread the alginate all over the face!</b> I have seen some use alginate that looks almost liquid, but my alginate was lumpy and so it was easily spread with a spatula. You can get one at home depot in the paint section.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rWPSRk3QRG0/TzSEEtGlhHI/AAAAAAAAALc/cCtQsqnYTvQ/s1600/IMGP2541.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rWPSRk3QRG0/TzSEEtGlhHI/AAAAAAAAALc/cCtQsqnYTvQ/s320/IMGP2541.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not the type of girl you bring home to meet the parents!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Get the entire face covered! Mine had a little spot left open by the nose mainly because it was freaking me out when my husband went by this spot. I thought alginate was going up my nose, but it was just the cotton that went up a bit too far. It's funny because the cotton is supposed to keep the alginate out and it did, but I didn't know >_<!<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Step 5:</span> Support the Mold with Plaster Wrap Cloth. </b>Some say to let the alginate cure for 5 minutes. Mine was almost dry by the time my husband finished applying the last of it, so we only waited a couple minutes. At that point take some pre-cut plaster wrap cloth, and cover the entire mold. We only did one layer because I didn't want to waste cloth, it worked fine for one casting, but not two. If you want to do as many casts as possible off of this mold before it dries out then double layer it.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JKDrEgaEDbw/TzSFOsDdu_I/AAAAAAAAALk/fahjvn8zAs4/s1600/IMGP2547.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JKDrEgaEDbw/TzSFOsDdu_I/AAAAAAAAALk/fahjvn8zAs4/s320/IMGP2547.JPG" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A face only a mother could love! (No I won't get sick of these lame jokes!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Step 6:</span> </b><b>Sit around for the most uncomfortable 10-20 minutes of your life!</b> By this point in the process, you've probably got drool all over your mouth and chin and are completely miserable. You're totally ready for this thing to come off, but you've got to wait for the plaster to fully dry or you've waste a lot of time! I say 10-20 because it depends on how long i took to put them on. By the time you are done for instance, the first layers may already be dry or well close to it. So feel for yourself whether the plaster is stiff enough to be considered dry.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Step 7:</span> </b><b>After at least 10 minutes, take the damn thing off! </b>Rejoice and appreciate your sight and speech! You can remove it by wiggling your face around and prying all of the edges off. I had trouble getting the top part out of my hair as it stuck a bit.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c8v8Wxy_FAg/TzSGfSFANVI/AAAAAAAAALs/8WMo4QXmJJ4/s1600/IMGP2548.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c8v8Wxy_FAg/TzSGfSFANVI/AAAAAAAAALs/8WMo4QXmJJ4/s400/IMGP2548.JPG" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Don't mind the mascara! I cleaned off my eye make up and this stuff still found some leftovers!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>I was actually a bit disappointed. For all the trouble this was, it wasn't a perfect mold. I blame that on the alginate. Don't buy alginmax; it sucks! Anyway, it's good enough to get the job done.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Step 8:</span> Mix a small batch of alginate</b> to fill in the mouth hole and any other crevices. Once that's dry you're mold is ready to go! <b>Make sure to line it with some sort of releaser, like more vasoline</b>. I don't know if you HAVE to line it, but it's better to do it and not wonder why you're cast didn't come out. <br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Step 9:</span> Prepare the box with newspaper!</b> <a href="http://mariemessina.blogspot.com/2012/01/how-to-make-your-own-armature-for-mask.html" target="_blank">If you remember from the plaster/plaster method </a>- we used a box with crumpled up newspapers in it. Go get it again, or make a new one to place your mold in, face first. <br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Step 10:</span> Mix your plaster or stone. </b>I used lab stone this time because I wanted a more sturdy armature. Plaster is alright, but it's so easily dented and nicked because it's softer. Stone is more, well, hard like a rock. Stone is a little tricky because you use a volume to weight ratio to figure out how much you need. I also had this ordered from a Zahn dental supply - it's called Gibraltar White Lab Stone. But really, plaster works just as well if you don't have the lab connections. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-veHm61hLugc/TzSIh26iAjI/AAAAAAAAAL0/Za5DVgER87M/s1600/IMGP2558.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-veHm61hLugc/TzSIh26iAjI/AAAAAAAAAL0/Za5DVgER87M/s320/IMGP2558.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Step 11:</span> Pour the plaster/stone into your mold</b>. Pour it slowly, especially if you're using plaster which is prone to air bubbles. Tap the sides to kick them out. Don't worry too much about it though because you can always carve off bubble marks. Pour it until it reaches the top of your mold, or to the highest point where it won't spill out. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kZus_vf7tWk/TzSLvk0v9iI/AAAAAAAAAL8/vRvLQ4tKfTU/s1600/IMGP2559.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kZus_vf7tWk/TzSLvk0v9iI/AAAAAAAAAL8/vRvLQ4tKfTU/s320/IMGP2559.JPG" width="212" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Step 12:</span> Let it dry for about 20-60 minutes.</b> It differs depending on what material you're using. My stone has a 15 minute dry rate, while plaster might take way longer.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Step 13: </span>Loosen the cast all around the edges and take the mold off.</b> Now you have an armature!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M1ktNmqQGkw/TzSQuSwQ-1I/AAAAAAAAAMI/Z0_t4JsXMos/s1600/IMGP2561.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M1ktNmqQGkw/TzSQuSwQ-1I/AAAAAAAAAMI/Z0_t4JsXMos/s400/IMGP2561.JPG" width="265" /></a></div><br />
I have seen WAY better casts made from alginate molds. I wish for the sake of my troubles that the alginate I had wasn't so quick drying. I probably would have gotten a much better mold with it then. Either way, I hope you had fun living vicariously through my alginate mold experience! Try it yourself if you're feeling ballsy!<br />
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Next week I'll be showing you how to make a feature for your mask out of aluminum wire and super sculpey! <br />
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<b>Thanks for Reading and Happy Creating!</b><br />
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<br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>If you found this post helpful please share it with your friends! I also love a comment! You can get up to the minute updates by following me on Facebook by <a href="http://www.facebook.com/mariemessinaart" target="_blank">clicking here</a>. I'm also on Youtube now; please subscribe by visiting my <a href="http://www.youtube.com/mzzystu" target="_blank">channel here</a>.</i><br />
<i> </i> </div>Marie Messinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09846127796453347405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2977838366711670670.post-24097212573475654232012-02-07T15:33:00.004-05:002012-03-08T16:56:53.095-05:00Part 2 of Creating a Bird Splicer Mask Inspired from Bioshock<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>This is part 2 of this post series - please <a href="http://mariemessina.blogspot.com/2012/01/creating-bird-splicer-mask-inspired.html" target="_blank">check here</a> to see part 1 if you haven't already read it. </i></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3arRZ85k540/TzGHf5M4tqI/AAAAAAAAAKs/xPuoDnbPjOw/s1600/Model_Side_View.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="620" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3arRZ85k540/TzGHf5M4tqI/AAAAAAAAAKs/xPuoDnbPjOw/s640/Model_Side_View.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">Next week I'll be concluding <a href="http://mariemessina.blogspot.com/2012/01/introduction-to-mask-making-and-goblin.html" target="_blank">Jareth's mask</a>, but I just couldn't get it done in time for today's post, so I'm finishing up the Bird Splicer mask from Bioshock instead. </div><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">Showing <a href="http://mariemessina.blogspot.com/2012/02/how-to-sew-sequins-for-mask-making.html" target="_blank">how to sew sequins</a> last week led up to what I did next for this mask which was creating the sequined felt cover. I basically followed the steps from my video to cover an entire mask! It took a great deal of time; I was up from 10pm to 5am working on it one night and then finished it the next day in about 3 hours. So about 10 hours total to finish just this part of the mask. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CJSs5QTQR1Y/TzFcDp_-PhI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/ZgkA2cPpQ9A/s1600/IMGP2368.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CJSs5QTQR1Y/TzFcDp_-PhI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/ZgkA2cPpQ9A/s320/IMGP2368.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The sequined mask in progress</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Once that was done it was time to gesso and paint: my favorite part! I gessoed the entire mask, every inch of it. Mainly because nothing sticks to plaster or clay, but it you gesso it, paint or glue will stick to the 'teeth' of the gesso. I then started to paint the feathers and beak a nice light brown called "Goose Feather." It seemed appropriate!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7qoVAhM1xXY/TzFcnPqlnsI/AAAAAAAAAKE/i40JZPeFmvM/s1600/IMGP2394.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7qoVAhM1xXY/TzFcnPqlnsI/AAAAAAAAAKE/i40JZPeFmvM/s320/IMGP2394.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I had to paint several layers of this color before it got the right level of depth and then I covered that with 2 layers of a satin varnish so that it would shine. The bottle said to wait 24 hours between each layer of varnishing. I'm not sure why or if you absolutely have to, but I did anyway. It made progress on the mask SO SLOW though!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">After the paint and varnish was finalized, the next step was to add all of the feathers to the back of the mask so they would stick out through the solid feathers. I just used a hot glue gun to do this adding a thin layer of down and then glued the larger Guinea quills over that. I layered about 3 of the quills in each section to give full coverage as well as a tapered effect. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Then it was time to attach the felt lining to protect the face on the inside of the mask. I copied the outline of the original sequined mask at the top, but left some room to work with in case I had to trim it. The eye holes were cut out and then I started to attach it by hot gluing the mask starting at the eye holes. Then the sequined mask went on the front and after all fitting and touch ups we had almost a finished mask!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CUMQ-YUeoAM/TzFeo1OQYBI/AAAAAAAAAKM/kmgJsnj0u04/s1600/Finished_Pro_Shot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CUMQ-YUeoAM/TzFeo1OQYBI/AAAAAAAAAKM/kmgJsnj0u04/s320/Finished_Pro_Shot.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">The only thing left to do, which was my one big goof up in this whole process was to find a way to wear it. Yes in all my excitement, I totally forgot to make holes on the sides of the mask! Honestly though, with the weight of this mask, about 1.4 pounds, the velcro fastenings I ended up using were the best bet. I made a 3 point harness of sorts which makes it attach very comfortably to the head. You can move around very freely in it and the velcro is very secure. I also added some foam to the point under the beak where it sets on your nose as it was a little uncomfortable without it on the bridge of the nose. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YZLRIStMLBM/TzFggmeZVJI/AAAAAAAAAKU/kUTO9NTxXJs/s1600/IMGP2484.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YZLRIStMLBM/TzFggmeZVJI/AAAAAAAAAKU/kUTO9NTxXJs/s320/IMGP2484.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">3 point harness to wear it</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;">This piece is now available for sale on Etsy <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/94820289/beige-brown-bird-splicer-mask-handmade" target="_blank">HERE</a> or you can <a href="mailto:marie@messinastudio.com" target="_blank">contact me directly</a> for purchase. I would be able to fully customize this mask with different color compositions. I am going to be starting another one, that is more owl-like, with a black/ white/ silver color theme as well. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Thanks for Reading and Happy Creating!</b></div><br />
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<i>If you found this post helpful please share it with your friends! I also love a comment! You can get up to the minute updates by following me on Facebook by <a href="http://www.facebook.com/mariemessinaart" target="_blank">clicking here</a>. I'm also on Youtube now; please subscribe by visiting my <a href="http://www.youtube.com/mzzystu" target="_blank">channel here</a>.</i><br />
<i> </i> </div>Marie Messinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09846127796453347405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2977838366711670670.post-37552793872849755122012-02-03T13:00:00.004-05:002012-02-29T14:20:56.167-05:00How to Sew Sequins for Mask MakingThis week I made a Youtube video to assist in explaining the sequin sewing! It's my first tutorial and video, so hopefully I didn't say," Ummm" too much. I'm also going to explain the steps in this post for those who want some additional instruction.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/xnqEslyDg3Y" width="560"></iframe></div><br />
<b><u>How To Sew Sequins</u></b><br />
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What You'll Need: Sequins (I bought mine here <a href="http://www.ccartwright.com/" target="_blank">Cartwright's Sequins</a>), thread, regular sewing needle, felt.<br />
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1. With an already threaded needle, tie off your thread so that it doesn't go anywhere!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VVnr-sLxyjI/TywX73lMJPI/AAAAAAAAAI8/f6PmX7eq4pM/s1600/IMGP2407.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VVnr-sLxyjI/TywX73lMJPI/AAAAAAAAAI8/f6PmX7eq4pM/s320/IMGP2407.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2. Stick the needle through the felt from the bottom and add a sequin by placing it over the needle. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ybu3a1I9fPI/TywYlImwTtI/AAAAAAAAAJE/BeYx-toT5eM/s1600/IMGP2408.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ybu3a1I9fPI/TywYlImwTtI/AAAAAAAAAJE/BeYx-toT5eM/s320/IMGP2408.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div> 3. Put the thread back down into the felt on the very edge of the sequin.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HTlKGbk8ynQ/TywY1Qm0ZJI/AAAAAAAAAJM/DitMSIy7NqY/s1600/IMGP2409.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HTlKGbk8ynQ/TywY1Qm0ZJI/AAAAAAAAAJM/DitMSIy7NqY/s320/IMGP2409.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div> 4. This is how it should look after Step 3.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LGOmRODuvaA/TywZE-UJr0I/AAAAAAAAAJU/TFrv06QN_lA/s1600/IMGP2410.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LGOmRODuvaA/TywZE-UJr0I/AAAAAAAAAJU/TFrv06QN_lA/s320/IMGP2410.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div> 5. Bring the needle back up through the felt on the very edge of the sequin in the direction you want to go.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AYRVZl7To0o/TywZWgHnGNI/AAAAAAAAAJc/YPVP48HDxb0/s1600/IMGP2411.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AYRVZl7To0o/TywZWgHnGNI/AAAAAAAAAJc/YPVP48HDxb0/s320/IMGP2411.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div> 6. Place the sequin over the needle and pull the thread through. Then put the needle down and through on the edge of the sequin again.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qT93RVSRX34/TywZmEEdYCI/AAAAAAAAAJk/Z4zosisOrAQ/s1600/IMGP2412.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qT93RVSRX34/TywZmEEdYCI/AAAAAAAAAJk/Z4zosisOrAQ/s320/IMGP2412.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">7. Keep doing this for as many as you need!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XbvLztaJ6II/TywZ0HyhPwI/AAAAAAAAAJs/37uNPwyXpHI/s1600/IMGP2413.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XbvLztaJ6II/TywZ0HyhPwI/AAAAAAAAAJs/37uNPwyXpHI/s320/IMGP2413.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">8. When you want to tie off an edge or just make it more secure because you want to face another direction, try to come up through the felt on the other side and go back down through the hole. This will secure it tightly from two different directions which should hold it in place quite well. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-382qWQlGDFI/TywaCW7Ab1I/AAAAAAAAAJ0/O9BpMfUWEiY/s1600/IMGP2414.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-382qWQlGDFI/TywaCW7Ab1I/AAAAAAAAAJ0/O9BpMfUWEiY/s320/IMGP2414.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>That's really all there is to it; quite a simple thing really. But if you didn't know how to do it, it's not the easiest thing to find the information on! I had to search for quite awhile and could really only find information on how to sew onto fabric for a costume.<br />
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<b>Thanks for Reading and Happy Creating!</b><br />
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<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>If you found this post helpful please share it with your friends! I also love a comment! You can get up to the minute updates by following me on Facebook by <a href="http://www.facebook.com/mariemessinaart" target="_blank">clicking here</a>. I'm also on Youtube now; please subscribe by visiting my <a href="http://www.youtube.com/mzzystu" target="_blank">channel here</a>.</i></div>Marie Messinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09846127796453347405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2977838366711670670.post-47116510420413256782012-01-31T13:59:00.008-05:002012-03-08T16:57:25.967-05:00Creating a Bird Splicer Mask Inspired from Bioshock Part 1I wanted to continue my post on the Labyrinth mask I am working on, but unfortunately I just wasn't able to get enough work completed on it to fill a post. I'll save it for next week and this week I'll go over the first part of my Bird Splicer mask I'm making inspired from the game Bioshock. I started this mask not long after my Labyrinth mask; it soon becomes apparent in mask making that you will be working on multiple masks at the same time!<br />
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When I was making this mask, I didn't know I would be making a blog about mask making, so sadly I don't have many pictures of the original stages. I started the mask with another simple plaster cast of my face but added some cardboard frills! I made the shape of the beak I wanted from the side and drew it on cardboard. I cut out the two sides and glued them together, bending it where I wanted.<br />
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You can attach any cardboard pieces with plaster wrap as well as wrap the cardboard to make it sturdier. It will get loose from the moisture at first, so you will have to hold it until it begins to firm up. The cardboard also becomes very pliable at this point, so if you wanted a more organic or rounded shape, not is the time to do it.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0zfuZvnfUFo/TygrCDhHpOI/AAAAAAAAAIE/R02IM0D-kds/s1600/IMGP2367.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0zfuZvnfUFo/TygrCDhHpOI/AAAAAAAAAIE/R02IM0D-kds/s400/IMGP2367.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Still attaching the pieces</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Once the beak was attached, I started with the feathers on the rear side of the mask. This is not meant to be an exact replica of the mask worn in the game and so I had initially wanted to leave the back feathers out. But I found in my homework that the back feathers actually help to balance the the large beak in the front and so I decided to add only half of them.<br />
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When I was done with adding all of the features, I realized that there were way too many rigid edges and this mask, the beak especially, needed to be smooth and shiny! So, I thought of using celluclay, but after a quick experiment, found it wouldn't be what I needed. I moved onto the Original Sculpey polymer clay I had purchased for just such needs! If you've never used polymer clay, it's definitely different, but the major thing you need to know is that in order to smooth it, you use isopropyl alcohol. You can use any normal clay tools as well, but I find paper towels and alcohol works best. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GJwGAZt5Td4/TygtBdWBsqI/AAAAAAAAAIM/BP12kbAOh9M/s1600/IMGP2370.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GJwGAZt5Td4/TygtBdWBsqI/AAAAAAAAAIM/BP12kbAOh9M/s400/IMGP2370.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nice and smooth beak</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div> I covered the entire beak in a rolled out sheet of sculpey as well as the feathers. Once everything was secured and set the way I wanted it, I prepared to bake the clay so that it would harden. This specific clay bakes at 325 in the oven for 15 minutes. From what I read, there are no toxic gases released during the baking process, so I used my own oven. Others tend to use separate toaster ovens specifically for this purpose. Make your own decision on it. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OHmeoJRuQL4/TygtIaL1BOI/AAAAAAAAAIU/SI9i7cp8dYc/s1600/IMGP2371.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OHmeoJRuQL4/TygtIaL1BOI/AAAAAAAAAIU/SI9i7cp8dYc/s400/IMGP2371.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In the oven - ready to bake</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Once it was done baking, I let it cool for awhile. The next step was to sand down the rough edges and gesso everything in preparation for painting and hot gluing items onto it later. The next step was to sew the sequins onto the felt which will eventually cover the facial part of the mask. Sadly you'll have to wait until next Tuesday to see the progress on this mask, but this Friday I'll show you how to sequins!<br />
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This piece is now available for sale on Etsy <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/94820289/beige-brown-bird-splicer-mask-handmade" target="_blank">HERE</a> or you can <a href="mailto:marie@messinastudio.com" target="_blank">contact me directly</a> for purchase. <br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><i>This is part 1 of this post series - please <a href="http://mariemessina.blogspot.com/2012/02/part-2-of-creating-bird-splicer-mask.html" target="">check here</a> to continue reading part 2. </i></div><br />
<b>Thanks for Reading and Happy Creating!</b><br />
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<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>If you found this post helpful please share it with your friends! I also love a comment! You can get up to the minute updates by following me on Facebook by <a href="http://www.facebook.com/mariemessinaart" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.</i><br />
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</div>Marie Messinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09846127796453347405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2977838366711670670.post-86295589780351981092012-01-27T18:28:00.004-05:002012-02-29T14:21:34.109-05:00How to Make Your Own Armature for Mask MakingThere are a few ways you can make an armature, but before I get into them, how about I explain what an armature is first! An armature is technically the framework around which your mask or a sculpture is built. In maskmaking it is used to sculpt on and then the mask is removed so the armature can be used over and over again. The benefit of using an armature is not having to buy pre-made half or full masks to work from and/or not having to use your own face as a model every time you need to make a new mask!<br />
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So without much ado, here is one method you can use to make your own armature.<br />
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<u><b>Plaster / Plaster Method</b></u><br />
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This is the easiest way in my opinion and will give you a decent armature. It will not be as detailed as an alginate molded armature would be, but it's good enough to get the job done! This method involves wrapping your face in plaster wrap cloth. You can get this at most craft stores; I know Michaels and AC Moore both carry it. It's usually called Rigid wrap or Art Minds Plaster Wrap. The package will have detailed directions, but it's basically just about cutting out strips and dipping them in warm water and then applying them to your face. I use vasoline to cover my entire face, but some just use it over their eyebrows and any hair. <br />
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You'll want to get a straw and cut it into a couple small pieces which can be inserted into your nose as everything else will be covered by the time you're done and you'll need to be able to breathe. Always start with an x over your nose/brow as the package will indicate. Make sure that the mask is solid with at least 3 layers of wrap. The other important thing is to make sure you keep your face relaxed. Try to avoid laughing! Pursing your lips a little helps as well to get the shape of them. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WQVZFhU4tOQ/TyMsWsHsYlI/AAAAAAAAAHs/evkD-yItDJM/s1600/IMGP2362.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WQVZFhU4tOQ/TyMsWsHsYlI/AAAAAAAAAHs/evkD-yItDJM/s320/IMGP2362.JPG" width="287" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is how your face should look when you're done.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>You don't have to wait too long before taking this cast off. By the time you're done with the last layer the first layer will be well on it's way towards being dry which usually takes about 20 minutes total. You will be able to tell if you can safely take it off by how stable it feels. Some have said to wait until it feels itchy but I have never had that sensation - plaster is ALWAYS itchy to me!<br />
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So when you think it's ready just start to move your facial muscles around. Make funny faces, scrunch your cheeks upwards, and furl your brow! It should come off pretty easily. Don't put the plaster wrap away yet though because you're not done with it yet. You'll have to build up the edges a bit so that liquid plaster will sit in it and so that it will lay flat on your desk/ surface. I used a $3.00 Full face mask I bought at AC Moore and tried to match it as best as I could and keep the edge even. Make sure to cover the nose holes as well. When you think you've got it go ahead and let it dry.<br />
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Get a small box that your mold will fit in and line it with crumpled up newspaper. Before you start mixing your plaster, insert your dry mold into the box with the face side down. Line it with lots of vasoline and get into all of the creases. Now get your Plaster of Paris (hardware store) and mix enough to fill the mold. I think I used 4 or 5 cups of plaster for my face mold.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s9p6mWyWbnM/TyMxq1wSRbI/AAAAAAAAAH0/lyJHmNqsLus/s1600/IMGP2377.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s9p6mWyWbnM/TyMxq1wSRbI/AAAAAAAAAH0/lyJHmNqsLus/s320/IMGP2377.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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Pour the plaster into the mold very slowly until it's all in! Make sure that mold is level! And when you're done pouring tap the edges of the mold to get rid of any excess air bubbles that might be hiding in the plaster. Let it dry - it will take a good 30-40 minutes so just go and do something else. <br />
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Once it's dried, depending on the shape of your mold, you may be able to just take it out of the mold. Or if you made the mistake I did and made a dip in your mold, you will have to peel your mold off of the armature, ruining the mold. This is how it should look when it's out though! You can know make future masks off of this armature instead of having to get your face all mucky every time! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OT9u0_qX6dU/TyMeMmCZQhI/AAAAAAAAAHc/79DQLPpWO7E/s1600/IMGP2374.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OT9u0_qX6dU/TyMeMmCZQhI/AAAAAAAAAHc/79DQLPpWO7E/s320/IMGP2374.JPG" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Armature from plaster/plaster method.</td></tr>
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The plaster / plaster method works well, but if you want a really detailed armature, the best way to go is with alginate. I'll cover how to make an armature out of alginate next Friday and once all of the methods are completed I'll link them all together for easy reference.<br />
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<b>Thanks for Reading and Happy Creating!</b><br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>If you found this post helpful please share it with your friends! I also love a comment! You can get up to the minute updates by following me on Facebook by <a href="http://www.facebook.com/mariemessinaart" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.</i></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Marie Messinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09846127796453347405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2977838366711670670.post-76962346806698160422012-01-24T15:15:00.003-05:002012-02-07T15:41:45.979-05:00An Introduction to Mask Making and the Goblin King Pt 1 (Labyrinth)<u><b>An Introduction </b></u><br />
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Some of you may know me from my paintings. I used to keep up more of an blog face for Messina Studio, but have lately kept it to <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Marie-Messina-Art/181517458547082" target="_blank">facebook updates</a> and a <a href="http://www.messinastudio.com/" target="_blank">website</a>. I don't think I really enjoyed blogging about the painting side of art because most of the process is done behind closed doors between me and the painting, and without a video camera, it's hard to really ever get into it on a blog. I'm also not one to speak for any great length about a painting, or art for that matter. I've always been pretty blunt and to the point. I like it - I don't like it - I really like it - I like this color they used - etc. But I'm not going to go on and on and write lengthy blog posts about it. <br />
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So you may be wondering what I'm doing here then? Well, I have found a new interest, and since I just started a week ago, you're not too late in joining me for the ride. I am doing a painting series on masked figures, called Veiled Intentions, and in doing so I spent a lot of time looking around on Etsy at different types of masks. I realized that the ones I really fancied were ones that I could never afford to buy in the $400-1000 range and so a thought dawned on me. What if I tried making my own?<br />
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<u><b>Mask Making</b></u><br />
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I did...a lot of research..and I mean a lot! Here are just a handful of the links I've accumulated. Check them out for yourself if you're interested as I won't cover everything in this post. <br />
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<a href="http://www.allspecies.org/edu/maskmaking.htm" target="_blank">Mask Making Ideas and Instruction</a><br />
<a href="http://www.halloweenfear.com/Papiermache2.html" target="_blank">Different Papier Mache Methods</a> (Pulp, Paper Strip, etc)<br />
<a href="http://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Plaster-Mask" target="_blank">More About Making a Plaster Mask</a> (Plaster Masks are good templates)<br />
<a href="http://www.papiermache.co.uk/forum/" target="_blank">Papier Mache Resource</a> (Has lots of great info- search the forums)<br />
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<u><b>The Goblin King </b></u><br />
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The first mask that I wanted to try was based on the one that Jareth (David Bowie's character) wore at the masquerade in the movie The Labyrinth.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MlnDnayjKQ0/Tx8EOeWVdBI/AAAAAAAAAEk/qGRqSNBY0Fs/s1600/ss2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="223" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MlnDnayjKQ0/Tx8EOeWVdBI/AAAAAAAAAEk/qGRqSNBY0Fs/s400/ss2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Goblin King</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
I decided to go with making a plaster cast of my face to build on. Once I had the basic shape of the mask, I let it dry and had no problem taking it off of my face. I realized pretty quickly that I wouldn't be able to get the shape I wanted with the plaster wrap alone. Then it was time to start doing some research on what to sculpt with. I told you there was a lot of homework involved! There are a lot of choices which is good but also makes the task arduous (I know..what kind of person uses a word like that on a blog..lol).<br />
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I decided I wanted to use a sort of paper pulp or paper clay to sculpt with but I couldn't find what I needed at Michaels (local craft store) and ended up getting Celluclay. This ended up not being such a horrible thing - Celluclay only needs some warm water added to it and it's very easy to sculpt with. I'll get more into this later. Here are some of my early pictures of the mask.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EfSv63Fukqo/Tx8JoeAAJjI/AAAAAAAAAEs/3HsX4n0wB30/s1600/IMGP2339.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EfSv63Fukqo/Tx8JoeAAJjI/AAAAAAAAAEs/3HsX4n0wB30/s400/IMGP2339.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The first basic shape and layout of the mask. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>The Celluclay has one downfall though if you apply it too liberally, it gets lumpy when it dries. I put it on pretty thick to make the bulges, so it got super lumpy on me! The good thing about Celluclay though is that it can be sanded. This helps to an extent, but you will most likely have to do some more to smooth it out.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-caHcechlQLo/Tx8LxJFi34I/AAAAAAAAAE0/24AIGUHqkVo/s1600/IMGP2360.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-caHcechlQLo/Tx8LxJFi34I/AAAAAAAAAE0/24AIGUHqkVo/s400/IMGP2360.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
To add the ridges to the horns, I used para-cord paired with a glue gun and then used plaster wrap and celluclay accordingly to shape it up. I also had to fill in some of those lumps with more celluclay. I also added some little flaps off the side of the mask. This can be done easily by mixing card stock and plaster wrap together.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l15Xo8qPnRE/Tx8MyVhbiPI/AAAAAAAAAE8/LTRYYX9SViA/s1600/IMGP2369.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l15Xo8qPnRE/Tx8MyVhbiPI/AAAAAAAAAE8/LTRYYX9SViA/s400/IMGP2369.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Finally! It's starting to look a lot better! This was taken after I had sanded down the last layer of celluclay and added a full layer of gesso to the whole front of the mask. Some people suggest using a mix of string gel and modeling paste, but I know I can sand gesso as well, and until it's smooth enough that I think I won't want to sand it anymore, I won't use that mixture.<br />
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Since I didn't shape the mask perfectly the first time I did it, I've had to go back with a Dremel (hand tool) and drill/sand off the edges underneath the nose. Wouldn't you know that the battery died on the Dremel and I can't find the battery charger anywhere! They are also not available for sale anywhere unless you want to pay $50 on Ebay which really sucks. I will have to find another way to get it shaped the way I'd like - maybe just a lot of sanding.<br />
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After this whole experience, I found that I REALLY enjoy making masks! I think the most rewarding experience is working with my hands and creating something out of nothing. It's an amazing feeling and I think I'll be sticking with it! Keep an eye out for Part 2 of this post where I'll show the finished mask and painting it to look like tarnished bronze. <br />
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<b>Thanks for Reading and Happy Creating!</b><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><i>Please share this post if you like it and follow me on my Facebook page - <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Marie-Messina-Art/181517458547082" target="_blank">Marie Messina Art</a> - where you can see updates on both my paintings and my masks.</i></div>Marie Messinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09846127796453347405noreply@blogger.com0