How to make a fake gas mask
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Though originally designed as a purely practical device, full head-cover gas masks have worked their way into many imaginations as iconic, sometimes terrifying symbols. Because of this, a non-functioning costume gas mask is often just as useful as the real thing, and easier to get a hold of if you make your own.
Though a real gas mask is made of complex parts, you can build a realistic-looking fake using common craft supplies and household objects.
Attach the goggle lenses to the ski mask. Turn the mask inside-out, then place a line of hot glue around the edge of each goggle piece. Glue them to the inside of the mask's eye holes, facing out. After the glue hardens, turn the mask right side-in and trim the mask's existing eye holes wider to accommodate more of the goggle lenses.
- Though originally designed as a purely practical device, full head-cover gas masks have worked their way into many imaginations as iconic, sometimes terrifying symbols.
- After the glue hardens, turn the mask right side-in and trim the mask's existing eye holes wider to accommodate more of the goggle lenses.
Put the ski mask on the wig stand.
Form the shape of the respirators from the duct tape, cans and jar lid. Wrap the cans in duct tape from the bottom up, covering the bottoms and leaving enough extra tape to wrap up to attach to the mask. Tape the tuna tins to the lower sides of the face and the jar lid to the front. Use plenty of tape, wrapping it in place to form part of the shape of the attaching portions of the respirators, rather than just taping on the cans and lid.
Coat the mask in black liquid latex. Apply several thick layers of liquid latex using disposable brushes. Allow each layer to dry fully before applying the next. Drying time will vary according to thickness but will be apparent when the latex is fully firm. Continue to apply coats until the mask has a more or less consistent texture.
- Put the ski mask on the wig stand.
- Use plenty of tape, wrapping it in place to form part of the shape of the attaching portions of the respirators, rather than just taping on the cans and lid.
Cut away the rear portion of the mask. Leave enough of the mask intact to cover the skull, but not the back of the neck, sloping up from the jaw.
References
- "The Theatre Props Handbook: A Comprehensive Guide to Theater Properties, Materials and Construction"; Thurston James; 2000
Tips
- You can use the same techniques to create a different style of gas mask with a single respirator located in the front and centre: simply use one small vegetable can.
Writer Bio
Lauren Vork has been a writer for 20 years, writing both fiction and nonfiction. Her work has appeared in "The Lovelorn" online magazine and thecvstore.net. Vork holds a bachelor's degree in music performance from St. Olaf College.