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I just received a latex Phantom of the Opera mask I spent a fair bit of dough on for halloween, and it seems to be covered in small lumpy bits, and is rather rough. Does anyone have any idea on how to smooth it down correctly?

My gut reaction is to send it back and demand another one if it's very bad.

As for fixing it, I wouldn't have the first idea.

same....... uhh.... more latex???

I've tried using modelling clippers to pick off some of the larger lumps, and wiped it down in warmwater. My modelling files have little effect, so I'll be trying some sandpaper next.

Sandpaper will leave scratches all over it and tear out large chunks.

An electric sander would do the same, in addition to melting part of it through the heat of friction. I'd recommend against this course of action.

What is the melting point of latex?

It may be possible to warm it in very hot water and smooth down the lumps with a palette knife.

Another possibility is to cut off the lumps with a scalpel, then do a light wash and wipe over the whole thing using a solvent for latex.

Finish by spray painting it with latex spray paint.

It wont melt, it would catch fire first.

Just cut off the lumps with a sharp knife or clipper.

You can fill in holes with liquid latex makeup if needed. Use a bit of tissue paper over a bigger hole and add some latex on top with a q-tip.

Use greasepaint to color your mask. The makeup they sell in stores for halloween will work well. You could use acrylic paint but it will crack and come off of the mask.

I work with latex masks, makeup and prosthetics here: www.jasonswoods.com