I’ve noticed that many displays here on MM.net (of Myers masks) tend to leave a mask ‘open’ when on display (i.e. without securing the nape slit flaps that allow a mask to be worn).
Myself, I secure the flaps by a small paper clip, thus tightening up a mask somewhat and limiting the slight bulge around the neck that can occur when left open (and which, in the worst instances, can give a mask unintentional ‘jowls’).
When viewing a mask full face, I find this provides better definition around the jaw and neck (indeed, this works quite well with the CGP ‘Warlock’ and ‘Fear’ masks, which can appear bulky when displayed and left ‘open’). This trick is often used with clothing during photoshoots, etc. - i.e. the back of a shirt is clipped together using tighter claw clips to draw the fabric closer to the body and suggest a better fit (from a frontal perspective).
I assume in at least the first two (original) Halloween films that the slit remained open and was not secured, given that the mask was being worn - even though the turned-up Myers collar could potentially hide whether the flaps were indeed secured to provide a tighter fit, and thus produce stronger lines around the jaw and/or face…
So, does anyone else ‘close’ their masks when displaying? Thoughts?
I’m in agreement with you that pinning the flaps together brings out better display detail from the mask. I’ve used clothespins, though.
Since i have a massive head, i’ve had to extend the back slit on a few masks. In one case, the slit extension caused the mask’s neck to flare out to the point where the flaps were in line with the ears. The mask acquired a bloated look to it when displayed. So i clipped the pin on and the problem was fixed.
However, i had the left the flaps clipped together on that particular mask for months. When i went to put the mask on, the latex in that area had stuck together. It wasn’t damaged, just stuck (and rather easy to unstick). Since selling that mask, i don’t keep the back necks of my masks fastened. I only do it on occasion when needed (i.e. for taking photos sometimes).
I’ve never done that for display, although I did tighten one with masking tape over the flaps while wearing it. I don’t recommend that at all, it effectively traps you in the mask.
I use the second clip you posted on masks where the neck flares out. A lot of older masks lose shape from that weakness area that neck slit creates in support for the back of the head. I use a tiny piece of fabric on either side of the neck piece so the hard plastic doesn’t cut into the latex or leave an impression.
No. I just leave it the way it is. Now, I turn my masks into busts, by adding a shirt, or part of a costume. It makes the mask look 1000Xs better, in my opinion.
