TYPES OF COMMISSIONS
#1: A head created using an existing mold. These start around a couple thousand.
I cast your mask in an existing mold and fabricate to your specifications. If you see a head in my gallery, please inquire to see if the mold is still available.
#2: A custom head sculpted and molded entirely from scratch. These start around several thousand.
This option gives you the greatest opportunity to realize your vision. IMPORTANT NOTE: because of the time and material cost involved in the sculpting and mold-making processes, the mold created for your custom head will enter into the catalog of existing molds for future patrons to select from. The higher upfront cost to you is offset by 1) your ability to choose aspects of the sculpture such as expression and 2) the fact I will give these commissions priority. If you want the sculpt to be exclusive to you, please let me know and we can discuss pricing options.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Naturally colored or thoughtfully-designed characters are my preference, though this is not mandatory. Bright, neon, or otherwise unnatural colors can be rendered in small doses, but if the character design calls for them in complimentary schemes, this is OK too.
Existing reference art is helpful. I can design a character from scratch for you, but I am not an illustrator, so cannot provide references for you.
I only offer heads at the moment. No full suits, tails, hands or feet at this time. I encourage patrons to purchase extra fur/fabric to have these extra elements made by other artists. If you plan on having a full suit made, please inform me so I can be sure the proportions of the head will work with the rest of the costume.
My sculptures walk a line between toonism and realism, though I may be willing to create something with a slant toward one or the other.
“Artistic freedom” projects are always welcome; these involve giving me a general idea and allowing me to work within loose parameters.
Sculpting from scratch is an interpersonal task. I always share progress photos along the way, and value a patron’s feedback. Because of the nature of working in clay, however, it is important that the patron understands that some of my design suggestions may be necessary to facilitate proper molding, casting and fabrication of the head.
My prices vary commission to commission. The more detailed you can be when submitting a quote request, the better.
TERMS & PAYMENT
Payment is required in full before beginning your work. Installment plans are possible, though work only begins after the last payment is tendered. All installments are non-refundable. Payment should be made via PayPal, bank check or wire transfer. All details of a commission will be decided and agreed upon before any payment is tendered. I reserve the right to cancel a commission after payment is made for any reason; in such an event, the patron will be refunded 100% of their money immediately. Also be aware that my starting prices may change over time, depending on factors such as fluctuating material and time costs.
I will work as quickly as possible to complete your commission, but cannot give a specific date of completion. As you probably know, creating a custom character takes a tremendous amount of time, effort and energy. However, I strive to keep my queue moving at a healthy pace, and will not sit on your payment. Your work will be done in a fraction of the time larger makers take. If you have any questions about time frames and progress, just ask! I aim to complete projects within two or three months after beginning work.
When an order is completed, the buyer is responsible for all shipping costs, including insurance and import fees/taxes/duties. Orders will only be sent out fully insured, with tracking and signature confirmation to ensure that it arrives safely into your hands only. The full shipping payment will be required before your order is sent out. I am based in the United States. Please keep in mind that sending your mask internationally may cost several hundred dollars to include insurance, tracking, etc. It is advised to take a video of unboxing your mask for insurance purposes, in the event of damage during transit.
All patrons must be at least 18 years of age; I may require proof of age. A formal contract must be executed before any payment is tendered and any work begun.
My work will limit the wearer’s visibility to some degree. Please be mindful about wearing my masks in small intervals, stopping regularly to cool off and hydrate. I am not responsible for any injury or other mishaps that may happen while wearing my work.
Frequently Asked QUESTIONS
What are your heads made of?
I slush-cast my heads in impact-resistant resin. This forms masks that are both extremely durable and relatively lightweight. Heavy-duty expandable foam, common in the industry, may also be possible.
How do you make the fur so smooth, and what are the limitations of the technique?
This is achieved using a process called electrostatic flocking. Nylon flock is extremely durable and weather resistant, and creates an irresistibly soft texture. There are limitations when flocking complex patterns, although paint can pick up the slack and tends to blend well into flock. We will discuss this during the quote process. Generally, my masks are always flocked. Fur fabric, because of its backing, is too bulky to use on faces, so is reserved for the mask’s cowl.
Do your heads come with built-in fans for cooling?
I try to create enough space in my masks to allow for small fans, normally inside the muzzle. These can be attached to your head using museum putty, which ensures that the fan can be swapped out easily if needed. My heads do not come with them standard, but can be purchased inexpensively (around $20) from a multitude of sellers across the internet. I can point you to them if needed.
Do you offer full suits, partials, or just heads?
Currently, I only offer heads. When I purchase the fur for your project, you are welcome to purchase extra from the vendor to have made into the other costume pieces you desire by another artist. I can use my social media presence to help find you a maker who can craft the extra parts you are after. However, if you are a professional organization or sports team and need a full costume, please get in touch. I may be able to accommodate, or at least point you in the right direction.
How long will my commission take to complete?
As soon as your commission is paid in full, I will begin work. If your mask is from an existing mold, it could take anywhere from one to three months, possibly less. Custom-sculpted works will take longer. You are welcome to message me at any time during the process to see where things stand. I cannot guarantee a specific date of completion, but if you need the commission by a certain date, please let me know.
How polished are your masks?
Very. I try to make my work as clean as possible. However, each head is handmade and unique, and all parts are fabricated from scratch. Don’t expect a product that appears as if made by a machine!
Do you sell blank casts?
Not at this time. While the commissioner retains the rights of their character, I reserve the rights of the sculpture itself.
Do you share work-in-progress shots along the way?
Absolutely! The process is collaborative, and I share photos along every major step during the process. I also reserve the right to share work-in-progress photos on social media.
Can I change my design/details after you’ve begun your work?
Sometimes. Many of the techniques used to create your head are permanent and cannot be altered without starting from scratch. If there are small alterations, you are welcome to ask and I can assess the feasibility of the request. It is important to have the design of your character finalized before I begin work.
I bought one of your masks secondhand. Is there any warranty?
Unfortunately, no warranties or obligations apply to anyone who does not buy my work directly from me.
*How do I care for my head?
Like all handmade artwork, your head should be treated as gently as possible. It is a totally stable, sturdy object that will survive falls, rain, and other such eventualities. However, I always recommend not taking risks if possible. Treat it well, and it will treat you well. Avoid stormy weather and other experiences which may get the character wet or messy. If you have any concerns, do ask. To clean any smudges or dirt, a shoe eraser (designed to remove scuffs from leather or nubuck) works wonderfully. For deeper marks, a soft bristle toothbrush and gentle soap/water can help. The biggest risk to the finish is leaning the flocking against something hard for long periods of time, causing indentations, since the finish is very similar to velvet. Keep your mask displayed facing up, or hang on the wall when not worn. If being stored for travel, wrap the head carefully in multiple towels in either a hard piece of luggage, or in a bag that you can keep your eye on. I always recommend traveling with it on your person at all times to avoid carriers/baggage handlers from accidentally losing or damaging it.
I am under 18 years old. Can I commission you?
Legally, no; a contract will need to be signed verifying your age before work begins.
Can I commission you anonymously?
Private customers can absolutely remain anonymous; however, I always publish my work here and on social media.
I represent a company / sports team / professional / commercial organization. Can I commission you for a mascot?
Yes, of course! Please disclose which organization you are with when submitting a quote request.
Does your work come with a warranty?
At the moment, there is no warranty offered. If, however, the head has an accident and needs work, please contact me and I can advise on a solution.
How can I get in contact with you if I have any questions?
The quickest way to get in touch is via Twitter DM @tamburmane. Alternatively, you can e-mail me at tamburmane@gmail.com, or fill out a commission request form here