How to Make Your Own Paintball Mask?

As a paintball enthusiast who has quite some experience of the game, I would say protective gears are a must-have, whether you are a pro or a newcomer. Similarly, without any doubt, masks are absolutely significant and vital to keep your face protected against shock and injuries. These are evolved versions of the goggles that were considered the traditional means of safety during the earlier paintball games during the 1970s and 1980s.

However, buying readymade masks might not be the best decision for all players, given that they have a unique structure. Some players with broad facial structures and long bones can find it challenging to find the perfect fit. Here, one thing that can save you from this struggle is a DIY project. As a player, I have made a number of customized masks that have protected me on the field. If you are wondering how to make your own paintball mask, dive right in and follow these instructions.

Why Do You Need a Mask to Play Paintball?

Well, if you are a paintball player, you would know the importance of using protective masks. These are undoubtedly vital gear on the field, considering the fact that they are responsible for protecting your face from impact and injuries. An average mask covers the eyes and head, so you feel comfortable and safe throughout competitive and challenging matches. If you are a professional who is prone to hits and injuries, it is absolutely important to invest in a quality paintball mask.

How To Make Your Paintball Mask

Making a paintball mask is nothing challenging as long as you know what are the essential components and how to make them right. So, having the right tools, materials, and an idea of your individual requirements is a must-have. Here are some important things you need to have in a quality protective paintball mask;

Lens

First of all, you need to have a quality lens. In simple words, the job of the lens is to protect the eyes from the impact that is generated by the shots. Most commonly, readymade masks come with polycarbonate lenses as they are strong and resist damage quite well. You can also buy anyone if you are to make your own mask. All you need to make sure of is that the lens must fit perfectly in the frame. Similarly, you can also choose whether to use a single or double lens, based on the field and weather conditions.

Strap

Another essential element of your paintball mask is the strap mechanism. If you are someone who has a broad and long face, it is important to have some sort of system that allows you to adjust the fit. I usually prefer using elastic as they are easy to fit as per your face structure. The professionally made elastic strap has silicone beads as they stay in place and don’t move from one place. On the contrary, if you have an average face structure, you can go with pretty much anything.

Frame

Similarly, another important thing that is required to make a quality paintball mask is its frame. Now, you can make it in one piece or different pieces. Most commonly, the manufactured masks come in one piece. But, whenever I am making one, I prefer different pieces as they are functional in a way that individual pieces can be removed and are easy for me to assemble together. In addition, foaming in the frame is further essential as it makes sure players feel comfortable and pleasant throughout long and hectic matches.

Protection

As the name suggests, if you are a professional and require absolute protection, it is important to have an extended frame. In simple terms, you need to make sure that it covers your entire face and is thick enough to resist and absorb impact from shots. Here, using fiberglass or semi-rigid plastic is absolutely essential as it is sturdy yet offers breathability. It is equally important to have a mask that perfectly fits your face and is closer to your face. All in all, it must be equipped enough to absorb the impact.

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How To Customize Your Own Paintball Masks: A Detailed Guide

Now, if you are wondering how to make your own customized paintball mask, you are in the right place. Here is a complete step-by-step process that guides your way into making your personalized mask. So, dive right in for more.

Start By Gathering the Equipment

For the process, you would need these things;

• Glue and card paper (make sure it is hard).
• A fiberglass cloth as well as resin.
• A body filler (gel or foam) of your choice.
• Primer, paint brushes, paint of your choice (acrylic preferably), and spray paint.
• Sunglass lens.
• Some elastic and crafting foam.
• To use these things, you would require some tools, including an electric sander, a printer, a computer for printing, a putty knife, and a pair of scissors.

Prepare a 3-D Model

To begin with, you need to have a special program called Pepakura or any other if you have access to it. This program is to help you build a 3-D model of different pieces you will be needing for the entire mask. You can get it downloaded from any browser. Now, it all comes down to which program is best suited for you. On the program, you can find army masks as they are better for protection on the field. You can also search the draft model from google and customize it as per your required size.

Once you are done with the right size, it is time to click on the print and let the computer do its job. If you are new to this, I would advise you to cut one piece at a time, so at the end, it is easy to assemble together. It works just like a puzzle and once you have all the pieces together, you can glue them together. It is going to take you some time, so make sure you are tolerant and composed during the long and hectic task of cutting and gluing the pieces together. Also, don’t forget to wear a respirator.

It is Time to Apply Fiberglass

Now that you are done with the base or foundation of the mask, it is time to apply the fiberglass. It can be a bit difficult, considering the fact that working with the material is challenging as well as it produces toxic fumes. Hence, make sure to do this step at a place with proper ventilation and precautions. Now, you are required to cut the fiberglass cloth into strips and mix these with the fiberglass resin solution thoroughly. For this purpose, take a bucket and add about one oz of resin with 10 drops of hardener.

Once the resin is all prepared, it is time to apply the solution. Before you get into it, make sure the quantity is enough to cover your mask base. Start by applying a thin coat of resin. I prefer using the toothbrush as it gets the appropriate amount onto the inside of the 3-D model. After this, take the strips and put them over the solution once it is partially dried. Repeat this step until you get enough thickness. This will create an aesthetic design that will look like the strips are melting in the resin.

Sand Down the Mask

I would like to say that most of the work is done and this step is particularly simple to do, yet can take some time and demand effort. What you need to do is take a cricket ball-sized amount of Bondo and mix it with at least 5 drops of hardener. Now, if you have not worked with the Bondo before, it is important to know the right technique, or else you will be left with air bubbles. I usually like to fold it a number of times, so that the gray and red are properly and uniformly mixed.

After the Bondo is ready, you are required to spread it onto the mask just where you put the fiberglass and resin. While working with Bondo, you need to be quick and precise, as once it dries out, it will be useless. Once you are done, it is time to wait for at least twenty minutes. After this step, sand it down using the machine in order to get a perfectly smooth and fine finish. The Bondo liquid can also release harmful fumes, so make sure the area you are working in is properly ventilated.

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Add the Foam

Similarly, considering the fact that paintball matches can be hectic and tiring, you need a mask that feels comfortable during these long hours. Hence, for this purpose, you need to add foam to this mask in order to reduce the intensity of the fiberglass. Here, take some craft foam and cut it into small pieces and glue them to the inside of the mask. Make sure the thickness is enough to keep you comfortable and doesn’t stuff you during the matches.

Apply Resin and Primer

Just like before, make a resin solution using a hardener and resin and use a toothbrush to apply it outside the mask. I usually prefer four coats of resin as it is easy to sand and finish. Once the thickness is as per my satisfaction, I dust off the excess using the electric sander. If you notice some bumps and divots, make sure to follow them with the spot putty. You can coat a thin layer of this spot putty to make the finish seamless. Once the mask is all dry, it is time to apply the primer and sand again for a smoother result.

It’s Time to Add Lens

Now, while you have planned and begun the process of making your own paintball mask, it is absolutely significant that you invest in a pair of strong lenses. Test them and make sure they will not break during shooting. Once you have them in your hands, cut them in the shape you desire for your mask. I have always preferred wheels as it is practical. Now, with the right shape, you can just glue them on the inside of the mask. It is optional but you can finish the lenses off by adding some foam around the edges.

Add Straps

You are finally done and this is the last step of making the paintball mask. For this step, all you need to do is cut a Dremel in three pieces in a way that one piece comes at the top and two at the sides. I usually like to use elastic for the sides, so that the fit is adjustable. But, you can also use the Dremel as per the desired size. Just make sure the fit is perfect for your head size.

Finally, I hope you will have an idea of how to make and customize your paintball mask.

How to Customize the Mask: Different Options

Well, you must be wondering how you can add personal flavor to the mask you have just made. There are a number of ways in which you can make these masks visually and aesthetically appealing. To broaden your horizons, I have gathered these three amazing ideas you can use to customize your designed paintball masks;

You Can Use Stickers

The most popular and creative alternative you can use to customize the paintball mask. Here, the tools you would require for the process are paper, elastic tape, and some stickers. You can get help from other players who have posted their tutorials. You need to trace the size of the sticker on the paper and check whether it is suitable for your mask. Once it is okay, you just need to tape and glue them on the paintball mask.

Use Gaiters for Military Masks

Gaiters can also be quite useful when it comes to customizing paintball masks. It is not only time-efficient but doesn’t take any time. These are used commonly for sports-related projects. To get them, you can easily order them from any online platform like Amazon, AliExpress, or Target. Another good thing about gaiters is that they come in different sizes, colors, and designs, so you can easily choose them as per your style and vibe.

Use Custom Face Masks to Add to its Appeal

Now, in this time, face masks have become a trend for many people who like their designs and colors. They are not only cheap but absolutely easy to work with. All you need to do is get a stretchy mask and tie it with the goggles using the elastic strap. However, while using these, you need to make some holes in the fabric, so that during the game, you have no issues with the air circulation.

Can You Paint Paintball Masks?

Many players wonder whether you can customize their paintball mask using paint. Well, the answer is an absolute yes. However, the key to this is using the right equipment for the job. For instance, not all types of paint formulas work with resin and fiberglass, which are the commonly used materials for the mask. Similarly, prepping the surface for the surface is equally significant, or else you will be left with cracks and peels. Here are some commonly used paint compositions you can use for these masks;

• Acrylic Paints are the best you can use for plastic paintball masks if you want a smooth finish. However, given the fact that they can easily get peeled or chipped, you need to finish them off with a sealant.
• Spray Paints are the regular paints most people use for customization projects. Yet, using them with primer is absolutely important for a smooth finish. You also need to be careful of the right tools to apply this paint precisely. Make sure you at least use a few coats of spray paint to make it long-lasting.
• Plastic Spray Paints are specifically designed to be used on plastic. Here, brands like Krylon and Valspar come with their own compositions for better sticking ability. Yet, you still have to use the primer before applying the base coat of the paint to make sure it lasts for a long time.

Final Thoughts

In the end, there is absolutely no doubt that paintball masks are a must-have, whether you are a professional or have only started playing the game. This is because they save you from power shots and potential injuries. However, if you are someone who finds it challenging to find the correct match, you need to do some DIY projects and make your own customized paintball mask with a personal touch.

Finally, I hope this detailed guide and some tricks can help you in making your own mask that is visually appealing and covers your entire face

Frequently Asked Questions