Acrylic

A synthetic polymer used in resins and paints. Also used to make artificial teeth and dentures.

Airbrush
An atomizer for applying by compressed air a fine spray (as of paint or liquid color). An airbrush is the best choice for painting masks and special effects props because of its ability to blend colors smoothly and naturally. We recommend an external mix brush such as the Paasche H for Mask Paint or the Iwata Revolution for fine detail work using FW Inks.

Alginate
A fast-setting mold material used to make casts from living people or delicate/ unstable/ perishable items. Dental Alginate is used to make casts of teeth and gums. Prosthetic Grade Cream Alginate is used to make body part molds.

Appliance Make-Up
The technique of creating and applying flexible foam latex components directly to the skin of an actor's face and/or body.

Armature
A support for clay sculpture. For mask making and special make-up effects, a head form is used to support the clay and to ensure a proper fit for the finished mask or appliance.

Base Coat

Refers to the initial painting of an overall color to a mask or prop. Subsequent colors are applied on top of the Base Coat.

Burlap
A strong, reinforcing fabric added to the outer layers of a plaster mold. Add strength and reduces the possibility of cracks forming in the mold. Burlap is sold by the yard.

Cast
An impression taken from an object with a liquid or plastic substance.

Casting
A material cast into a mold is refered to as a casting. A piece of sculpture is a good example of a casting. When casting a rubber mask, latex is poured and/or brushed into a rigid,plaster mold. Castings can be made of either flexible or rigid materials. As a general rule of thumb, rigid casts are made from flexible molds so they can be easily removed. Rigid casts are not generally made from rigid molds as undercuts can cause the cast to lock into the mold.

Dividing Wall
A temporary wall made of water-based clay. Used to create a separation between the front and back halves of a mold.

glossary page 2