Learn to run foam latex for an articulated monster mask with foam master Tim Phoenix (The Odyssey, Stranger Things, The Avengers). In Part 4 of the course series, Phoenix takes over from creature creator Patrick Magee and uses Magee's mask molds to demonstrate his tried-and-true foam latex casting techniques. Phoenix covers everything from calculating material quantities and measuring ingredients to mixing and whipping the foam latex and filling the molds. Finally, he teaches you how to bake the foam, demold the fully cured mask and ears, and prepare the molds for future runs, sharing tips and techniques from years of running foam for Hollywood's biggest projects.

Intermediate Level

1h 45m of duration

English (auto), Spanish (auto)

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Curriculum

1. Title & Introduction - 3min

2. Reviewing the Molds and Foam Latex Mask Requirements - 3min

3. Materials and Weight Calculations for Foam Latex Masks - 16min

4. Measuring Foam Latex Materials and Chemicals - 6min

5. Mixing Foam Latex and Calculating Whip Time - 8min

6. How to Fill Molds with Foam Latex - 14min

7. Student Q&A - 15min

8. Mold Straps and Volume Sticks Overview - 3min

9. How to Bake Foam Latex: Guidelines & Best Practices - 12min

10. Demolding the Fiberglass Mold and Removing the Foam Latex Mask - 10min

11. Demolding the Stone Molds and Inspecting the Ears & Mask - 8min

12. How to Prepare the Molds for a New Foam Latex Run: Student Q&A - 7min

13. Wrap Up - 2min

Materials

CLICK the links below to find the materials you need for this lesson.

Some items might be harder to find, but a little internet scouring usually finds you everything you'll need.

FOR YOUR WORK STATION

Digital Gram Scale
Face and Ear Molds
Foam Record Sheet*
Mixer with Whisk and Mixer Bowl (Tim Phoenix uses a Hobart Heavy-duty Industrial Mixer)
Mold Straps
Oven (Tim Phoenix uses a JPW Industrial Oven)
Timer

Optional:

Air Conditioning system (to keep the room temperature low)
Indoor Thermo-hygrometer
Volume Stick

CLEAR COATS/RELEASES

Wax (Carnauba wax or Johnson & Johnson wax

LATEX/SILICONE

Tim Phoenix uses the following Imperial Surface Technologies products:

Icarus Curing Agent
Icarus Gelling Agent
Icarus Foam Latex Base
Icarus Foaming Agent
Icarus Potassium Oleate (P.O.)

PAINT/BRISTLE BRUSHES

Chip Brushes in Various Sizes

PAINT

GM Foam Black Water-Based Pigment

THINNERS/SOLVENTS

Castor Oil (C.O.)
Distilled water

TOOLS

Bolt Screwdriver or Impact Drivers
Bolts
Foam Gun (Tim Phoenix uses Burman Industries Foam Latex Injection Gun)
Screwdrivers

SUPPLIES

Disposable Nitrile Gloves
Metal Tape
Paper Cups
Paper Towel

*Foam Record Sheet: If you are an active Stan Winston School subscriber or have purchased this course individually and would like a similar Foam Record Sheet to the one Tim Phoenix uses, please email us your request at info@stanwinstonschool.com

HEALTH/SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

When working with toxic and/or dangerous materials or tools:

ALWAYS read labels for appropriate use guidelines
ALWAYS wear a high-grade respirator
ALWAYS work in a well-ventilated area
ALWAYS protect your skin
ALWAYS wear eye protection

Artist BiographyTim Phoenix

Prosthetics and Costumes Specialist, Master of Foam Latex

See Full Bio

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Articulated Mask Making Part 4: Running Foam Latex

Tim Phoenix