ABSTRACT
Gel-foam requires both positive and negative molds, just like hot and cold foam, but it involves a much simpler process. Heat the gel-foam cubes in a microwave about 1 minute (depending on the size of the prosthetic piece being made) to a gelatin-like consistency; pour the hot gelatin into a negative mold, and then close it with a positive mold. It is ready to be demolded in about 30 minutes. The gelfoam is extremely soft and fl exible, but heavier than foam latex. It is best for making small pieces or overlapping small pieces to create a large piece. It can be made with any type of positive and negative molds. Gel-foam can be reused several times (any extra edges trimmed off from the prosthetic piece can be melted and reused). (The Witch nose in Chapter 1 is made of gel-foam.)
• Liquid latex has been used for theatrical makeup for quite some time. Makeup artists use liquid latex to create instant wrinkles, scars, cuts, wounds,
masks, or prosthetic pieces. Liquid latex can be directly applied over the skin or be poured into molds. It air-cures at room temperature and dries faster at higher temperatures (with a hair dryer). It can be combined with cold foam or gel foam to make the prosthetic piece more durable and increase the fl exibility of the cured latex. Liquid latex also can be combined with some objects to create textured 3-D forms. It can be dyed or painted. (The Witch’s nose, Cyrano’s nose, and some masks in this book are made of liquid latex.)
Foam latex, cold foam, gel-foam, liquid latex, and life casting and mold-making materials can be purchased from the following sources. • Alcone Company Inc. (Paramount
theatrical supplies): 1. Alcone LIC (mail-order warehouse),
5-49 49th Avenue, Long Island, NY 11101; Tel: (718)-361-8373; Fax: (718) 729-8296, 1-800-466-7446; www.alconeco.com.
