Need some help with a molding project

[MegoCapnMike]

I am working on a molding project that is actually non mego related. However, as I know we have some great mold makers on here, I thought I would ask some advice. I have a paper mâché like face mask that I need to make a silicone or latex copy of to make a more durable version of the mask.

There is a fair amount of detail to the mask, so I need to work with soft molds and material. Trouble is, I always hear use a hard mold for a soft project and a soft mold for a hard project. But with this I have basically a soft detailed original that I need to end up with a soft copy. So basically, how can I make a soft mold and then a soft copy? What materials can be used?

Plaster or something similar will likely be to hard to get the original out of the mold without destroying it. So I am hoping for something semi soft for the negative mold.

[Starroid Raiders Dagon]

Hi MegoCapnMike, Can you seal the mask (could you put a light coat of vaseline over the mask?). If so, I would Rebound 40, for maybe 3 coats (surround the base as it runs a bit. Supposed to stay in one place like for vertical applications, but it runs a bit) and then get some Thi-Vex thickener for the next couple of coats (for thicker coats). Then a light coat of vaseline on the mold and apply a plaster casting from plaster bandages to keep the shape. Once finished, you should have a mold (the Rebound 40) and the shell (plaster bandage cast). You can use latex, or plaster, or urethane, wax, latex (silicone isnt affected by the water) in the silicone mold. This guys tutorial is good for an explanation with video.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WlVdt7f-YGM

Hopefully that makes sense? Smooth-On' website might have some better ideas for the cast itself.

[MegoCapnMike]

I can try that. I had been thinking of using some type of spray on coat to seal or harden the paper mask. I have some monster clay on the way that is supposed to be flexible clay for molding (even after it dries it is hard but still flexible) I am hoping if that works, my problem will be solved. I will check out the video though. And I had not heard of rebound 40 so I will look into that.

Best way to describe my project is imagine those thin plastic halloween masks from back in the day that only covered a kids face and was held by a rubber band. Now picture that mask with a bit more detail and the bulk of it made out of thick paper similar to paper mâché. Basically, I am trying to end up with a silicone wearable copy of the mask.

I will look into the suggestions you made though. Thanks for the info. I'll let you know.

[Starroid Raiders Dagon]

I was trying to find something like this last night but here is a better showing. I never thought about using a manikin head for backing (I was going to suggest saran wrap the back of the mask and use insulating spray foam) The reason I didn't mention Plasti-Paste is because you can do the shell out of plaster of Paris bandages for much cheaper. The link for the Rebound 25 and 40 is the bottom link. Good luck!!

http://props.punishedpixels.com/2012/12/10/borderlands-2-handsome-jack-mask/

http://www.smooth-on.com/Silicone-Rubber-an/c2_1115_1132/index.html