FIRMFORM®
is a unique construction method that
utilizes the strengths and minimizes the challenges
associated with the
most popular construction methods, yielding the lightest,
most comfortable, and most durable costumed character head on the market
today.
So called
"plastic" heads can be accurately duplicated in vacuum
forming, which involves heating a sheet of plastic, and
then pulling it into a negative mold, or stretching it
over a form, and pulling out all of the air so that the
plastic is formed in the desired shape. Some
of the problems with this method include 1) The design
must be limited to minimize "undercuts" (to make
it easier to pull the shape off of the form) or 2) If the
plastic is thin enough to be light, and rigid enough to
hold its shape, it is logically going to be fragile. When
the entire head is thin plastic, it can be a challenge to
repair and glue the thin edges together, or patch them
with another piece of plastic. They
require a plastic headband that is prone to breakage, as a
great deal of stress hinges on just one or two bolts
inside the head. If the headband is not replaced
immediately, these bolts are, to say the least, very
uncomfortable.
"Foam" heads are
generally either 1) Sewn in three thin plys: the fur,
one-half inch foam, and the lining, which yields a head
that is rather small and floppy and generally lacking in
detail, or 2) Created by gluing thick polyester foam on
the inside of a latex skin. This yields a head that is
comfortable and unbreakable, and can have detail, but it
can decay prematurely,and it cannot "breathe"
with the airtight latex layer. The latex is rapidly biodegradable,
and if the foam is isn´t lined, it can decay and become
quickly soiled as the actors wipe sweaty faces on this
readily available "sponge" inside the head.
Paper-mache heads are, by
definition, not very water (or sweat) resistant, and they
are also difficult to repair.
FIRMFORM®
heads utilize the strengths of the
most popular methods. Whenever possible, details such as
the mouth, cheeks and eyes, or even the entire
"face" is formed in plastic for accuracy. The
basic head shape, however, is formed in thick, three dimensional
foam, which is lined like a fine coat to prevent the foam
from decaying. The surface is washable with a mild
detergent or upholstery cleaner.
If you're a professional
entertainer, we'll literally guarantee that it will the
best combination of value, comfort, and appearance that
you have ever experienced.
