To create a dead body lying prone, we first need a live body lying prone. Since we will only be casting one side of a subject, we need less alginate than for a full body front and back. For this task we need about 8 lb. of alginate. Here is a rough list of what […]

Why would you want to do a full-body lifecast? I can think of only two reasons that apply to makeup effects work for stage or screen. The first is for the purpose of creating a body or corpse, in which case the task is somewhat easier because the lifecast will most likely be done with […]

Much of the time, you will want to cast your subject with the leg straight, in a standing position; even if you want a leg bent at the knee, the process will be the same. Your subject’s comfort is very important for this process because she will need to hold the same position for an […]

Terra alba will accelerate the cure of plaster; so will a bit of salt; so will warm water. However, hot water will actually inhibit or prevent the cure of plaster, so be careful with the temperature; test beforehand. White vinegar added to the water in small amounts will retard, or slow, the cure of plaster. […]

Face and neck lifecasts are probably the most common for creating makeup effects, since most makeups can be achieved with small appliances rather than full head and shoulder appliances. I’m sure there artists who would disagree, but face and neck lifecasts are certainly what I do more of. Here’s how to do it and what […]

Altering the appearance of the teeth can add a significant dimension to a char­acter makeup, and there are several ways to change the appearance of teeth to varying degrees. The easiest way is with tooth wax; a prosthetic device that fits over existing teeth is the most difficult. Fangs, decayed and rotting teeth, and the […]

Creating makeup effects requires a number of skill sets, including lifecasting, sculpture, mold making, and appliance casting and application techniques. Overview In most professional settings, the skill sets needed for creating a character makeup are most often practiced individually because each requires a good deal of concentrated expertise; however, it is not uncommon to find […]

There are almost as many variations in the list of materials used for making a life – cast as there are artists who do them. That’s a bit of an exaggeration, but there is no one set list of materials used. Most artists continue to use the materials with which they were taught the process, […]

Compared to making molds of inanimate objects, lifecasting can pose some potential safety hazards. Since the mold is made directly on an actor’s body, the materials must be safe and approved for use directly on the skin. There is also the potential for injury if the subject is being lifecast in a standing position and […]