Deer Skull pt.1

The current costume I am working on is a bipedal monster with a deer skull for the head. Unfortunately, I started this project before I started this blog. Therefore, the beginning is undocumented.

To sum up how I created the base for the skull mask, I started with a mask that fits over the eyes and nose. All that is needed is a 99 cent mask from a craft store. I took craft foam and created a band going around my head and above it.

To make the skull, I took measurements from a skull I found in the woods that I cleaned up. I wanted the skull to be proportional so I figured out how big my head is and how big the brain cavity of the deer skull is. Then, I calculated how much bigger the cavity needed to be to fit my head. I suck at explaining math but I used proportions to size it right.

It took a few days to decide what to make the antlers out of. I eventually decided on tinfoil and strong magnets. The magnets are going to be placed in the "caves" I created on the skull and the bases of the antlers. I figure if the antlers are detachable it would be easier to get through doors. 

After shaping the antlers ( I did make two by the way) I started paper macheing the antlers and skull. I have found it is not easy to paper mache over tinfoil but after creating a band around each point on the antlers it gets progressively easier.

For the paper mache mixture I use is just a mix of white glue and water. Just add small amounts of water and mix until the desired consistency. 

Currently I have the skull in the painting phase and am almost done with the papering of the antlers. When I get more done I will post!