Nomai Mask - EVA foam

by Jane Parson

Project Overview

Making a foam mask using makerspace materials, following online tutorials

Tools and Materials

MATERIALS
- Structure
  - EVA Foam (6mm)
  - Insulation Foam (24mm)
- Paint
  - Gold / Bronze Airbrush
  - Black Primer
  - Grey Airbrush
  - Sandstone Airbrush (Acrylic with thinner works)
- Glues
  - Hot Glue
  - Contact Cement
- Electronics
  - 3 x Blue LEDS
  - 9v dock
  - Power Switch
  - 1000 ohm resistor.

Project Files

Step-by-Step Instructions

Download / Print Image Reference - At https://www.punishedprops.com/2021/02/08/nomai-mask/, download the pdf files and print them out.

Cut out your foam- This tutorial uses 4, 8, 12, and 24 mm EVA foam. The makerspace exclusively uses 6 mm, so convert 4 and 8 to 6, and glue two layers together for 12. For 24, insulator foam sheets in the repair layer serve well (though they degrade on contact with hot glue, contact cement, and paint! Be warbed.) To bend the fins, blast with a hot air gun, then bend and hold- they'll warp into place. Additionally, you can mark the edges of the hexagon patterns with an exacto knife, to paint later. DON'T USE THE HOT KNIFE HERE, it's too deep. Using the hot knife to smooth edges works well, though.

GLUE FOAM glue your foam together using contact cement- paint both sides of the joint, let it air dry for 5-10 minutes, then stick them together. This instantly welds the materials, keeping them stuck. For the fins, hot glue might be necessary. At this point, you can also use a dremel to buzz down any edges or bumps.

PAINTING To paint the mask, you'll need patience. Lots of it- our airbrush is finnicky and slow, and you'll need many coats. if you're using acryllic in place of airbrush paint, mix it 50/50 or even 60/40 with airbrush thinner. Use tape to layer over for second and third coats. NOTE- PAINT THE HEXAGONS BEFORE BENDING THE FINS. USE A TEMPLATE.

WIRING: Optional final step- run three blue LEDS in circut with a 9v, power switch, and 1000ohm resistor (optional). Push them through the mask eyes with red gel paper in front, to make a purple glow. push the switch through the foam somewhere hidden if you'd like.