So I’ve heard two schools of thought on this. I’ve heard that some peeps use regular spray paint on their masks with no side effects or peeling as long as it is misted. I’ve done this myself on many but I sold them shortly after. I’m curious as to the long term effects of using simple spray paint on latex as opposed to liquid latex with acrylic. Thanks in advance!
Using spray paint will for sure deteriorate. But it is so much more realistic. Using an airbrush usually looks too refined. The trick, imo, is to use an airbrush and be careful to mimic the unrefined rawness of spray paint.
What’s the deterioration rate? As in… since I spray painted it, it only lasted 2 years. What ingredients in spray paint cause it to destroy latex?
Solvents and aerosols. And the deterioration is dependent on how well you take care of the mask. UV light, heat moisture are all killers. At least two or three times worse than without the harsh chemicals.
I wouldn’t be surprised if enamel paint essentially melted the mask over time.
The spray paint will destroy the latex
Didn’t they use spray paint on the original mask though and it lasted for years?
Modern spray paint is acrylic based. 40 years ago it was rubber based.
Interesting. But when they paint masks today don’t they mix acrylic with liquid latex?
You can buy acrylic spray paint, but don’t know the compounds used. It might not contain compounds that are good for latex. I know regular enamel paint which they used on the original mask contained toulene. Not good for latex! I think most cans say not to be used on certain materials and I’m sure rubber is included
Spray paint won’t last. There’s no stretch in it. Perhaps if you sealed the paint after spraying it with a flexible sealant, it may last a little longer but generally it’s a no no.
Has anyone ever tried white Plastidip? Isn’t that essentially spray-on rubber?
This would probably be too thick - you’d loose a lot of detail.
What about sealing the mask first before applying the spray paint?
I have used both spray paint and plastidip. Both are great, and for those wanting to play it safe - try the plastidip!
Spray downward from a higher angle, and you’ll get all of the accurate flesh spots.
I think the misunderstanding about spray paint is that people expect to be coating the whole mask. You need not apply much to get the desired effect, and if thin enough, you wont get any cracking and it will retain the flexibility of the mask. I do two light coats (sprayed downward as described above) and it comes out terrific.