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Professional wrestlers want something new and exciting. They
want to stand out from the crowd -- they don't want something
"off the rack." Designing a new mask from the ground
up can be a fairly complicated process. The following tips should
help put things in perspective:
Be clear about what you want.
Send me a picture or sketch if possible. The clearer you are,
the easier it is for me to match your design. Remember, design
time is a factor in determining cost.
Size and Design:
Large masks generally cost more than small masks. However, the
more intricate the design, the more expensive the mask.
Leather:
I use durable vegetable-tanned leathers in various weights and
thicknesses. I generally work with 3-4 ounce, 6-7 ounce and 8-10
ounce leathers. As a rule of thumb, 1 ounce generally equals
1/64" inch thickness. Thus a 10 ounce leather is roughly
1/8" inch thick. Wrestling is a contact sport, so most wrestlers
prefer a heavier-weight leather.
Colors:
Colors come in many shades, so be specific when requesting a
custom color. It doesn't help me much if you say "I want
a yellow mask." If you want a custom color, scan a color
swatch and email it to me, or give me a Pantone color, or send
me a link to something with the appropriate color on the Web.
I've been able to match paints and dyes to customers' dresses
and costumes this way with great success. The number of colors
and the intricacy of the design is a factor when determining
price.
Attachment:
With all the action in the ring, wrestlers want a secure, safe
and comfortable fit. Most of my wrestling customers prefer a
4 or 6-point bungie harness. Velcro is another option.
More options:
When designing your custom mask, the options are practically
endless! You are limited only by your imagination. Options might
include:
- Tooling designs into the leather
- Painting designs onto the leather
- Feathers
- Beadwork
- Glitter
- Lining (such as velvet or satin)
- Trim (such as ribbons, sequins and so forth...)
Payment:
Payment is expected before I start working on your custom design.
I will work closely with you via email to give you what you want,
and I will send you sketches and photos for your approval, when
appropriate.
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