Frequently Asked Questions
What is P.T.M. and how do I use it?
P.T.M.™ stands for Prosthetic Transfer Material and is used to create Prosthetic Transfers through a process of filling, freezing, and demolding. Prosthetic Transfers are similar to latex or silicone prosthetics used in makeup, however require no additional adhesives and are applied to the skin with water and transfer paper only, making them much more efficient during application. For detailed instructions on how to use P.T.M.™ visit our HOW TO page.
How much P.T.M. do I need?
Per Mold
Knowing exactly how much P.T.M.™ you will need to fill your mold can be done in a few different ways. One way is to use the following formula (in inches):
Length x Width x 0.125 x 1.5 = X grams.
The 0.125 value represents ⅛ inch, the average depth of a Prosthetic Transfer mold, while the 1.5 value represents the weight of P.T.M.™ per cubic inch. Every mold is different, but we have found that the average between the deepest points and the taper to the cutting edge of a mold is about ⅛ inch. At the very least this will give you a good starting point or a little extra material.
Total Amount
Now that you know what your mold's needs are, we can figure out the total amount of P.T.M.™ you may need for your production. Use the following formula.
Total grams per transfer x Total amount of transfers needed = Total grams of P.T.M.™
Note:
• Every 1 pound of P.T.M.™ ≈ 453 grams
Knowing exactly how much P.T.M.™ you will need to fill your mold can be done in a few different ways. One way is to use the following formula (in inches):
Length x Width x 0.125 x 1.5 = X grams.
The 0.125 value represents ⅛ inch, the average depth of a Prosthetic Transfer mold, while the 1.5 value represents the weight of P.T.M.™ per cubic inch. Every mold is different, but we have found that the average between the deepest points and the taper to the cutting edge of a mold is about ⅛ inch. At the very least this will give you a good starting point or a little extra material.
Total Amount
Now that you know what your mold's needs are, we can figure out the total amount of P.T.M.™ you may need for your production. Use the following formula.
Total grams per transfer x Total amount of transfers needed = Total grams of P.T.M.™
Note:
• Every 1 pound of P.T.M.™ ≈ 453 grams
What is Hi-Ro Slip and why should I use it?
Hi-Ro Slip™ is our silicone mold additive that was developed to create self-releasing silicone molds.
The simple answer to why you should use Hi-Ro Slip™ is that it will make your life easier when making Prosthetic Transfers. Beleive it or not, but P.T.M.™ loves to stick to silicone molds when coming out of the freezer. To eliminate this sticky problem, a mold release typically needs to be applied to your molds each time prior to filling. However, this takes time and creates additional problems such as build up on the transfer that then requires washing and the application of adhesive just to make the transfer sticky again...ugh. Thus Hi-Ro Slip™ makes the demolding process a breeze and eliminates the constant need for release agents, while leaving your Prosthetic Transfers sticky and ready to use right out of the mold...once dried of course.
The simple answer to why you should use Hi-Ro Slip™ is that it will make your life easier when making Prosthetic Transfers. Beleive it or not, but P.T.M.™ loves to stick to silicone molds when coming out of the freezer. To eliminate this sticky problem, a mold release typically needs to be applied to your molds each time prior to filling. However, this takes time and creates additional problems such as build up on the transfer that then requires washing and the application of adhesive just to make the transfer sticky again...ugh. Thus Hi-Ro Slip™ makes the demolding process a breeze and eliminates the constant need for release agents, while leaving your Prosthetic Transfers sticky and ready to use right out of the mold...once dried of course.
What makes your Paper and Release Film so different?
Suprisingly and unnoticeable at first, our Transfer Paper and Release (acetate) Film are actually very different than the genaric stuff. Besides using higher quality ingredients in our Transfer Paper to allow for quicker water absorbtion, our Release Film is double sided as well so you no longer have to think about what side must lay face down when running your transfers. In additon to all that, we offer various sizes to minimize your cutting!
How do I change the P.T.M. opacity or color to better fit my needs?
The best way for you to change the color or transparency is to use our other various P.T.M.™ Tones to create your ideal match. If you're looking to make it more transparent, all you would need to do is use some of our P.T.M.™ Clear to lower the tint of your material. Your other option is to add additional flocking or pigments to your P.T.M.™.
What color of P.T.M. is right for me?
That's always a tough one to answer. Our Pink 5 is our most recommended color for most individuals because of the great undertone color it provides, allowing for easier and more realistic makeups. Now if you're more comfortable with having material that blends with little to no makeup, then you may want to shoot for a tone that best fits the complection of your models/actors.