Making Fangs with Thermoplastic Beads

Introduction

• Presenter: Hendo
• Aim: Teach how to make custom fangs using thermoplastic beads as a cost-effective alternative to buying or commissioning custom fangs.

Materials Needed

• Thermoplastic Beads: Recommended type is Instamorph. Other brands include Polly plastics, Polymorph, and Friendly Plastics.
  • Available on Amazon (~$10) or craft stores.
  • Warning: Do NOT use generic plastic beads (e.g., from stuffed animals or beanbags).
• Heat Source:
  • Heat gun or hairdryer preferred.
  • Boiling water can be used, but it's more dangerous and time-consuming.

Process of Making Fangs

Preparing the Beads

1. Heat the Beads:

   • Take a small pinch of beads.
   • Use a heat gun, keeping beads contained in a lid or bowl to avoid them flying away.
   • Beads turn clear when heated.

2. Molding:

   • Form into a small ball, then mold into a cone shape for holding ease.
   • Ensure the temperature is safe before placing in the mouth.

Shaping the Fangs

1. Forming the Fang Shape:

   • Cover both front and back of the incisor (or desired tooth).
   • Use fingernail or tool to shape the fang.
   • Flatten the fang to level with natural teeth.

2. Fine-tuning the Fit:

   • Press plastic into gums to outline where to trim.
   • Bite to ensure fit and avoid interference with bottom teeth.
   • Allow cooling in the mouth, remove before fully set for trimming.

3. Trimming and Adjustments:

   • Trim excess plastic around gums.
   • Ensure matching shape and size across teeth.

Placement Variations

• Standard Fangs:
  • Typically on incisors; adjust placements for visibility or character requirements.
• Bottom Teeth Fangs:
  • Similar process, be cautious of overbites.
• Snaggle Fangs:
  • For "cutesy" characters, extend out from side teeth.
  • Adjust as needed for bottom snaggle fangs.

Additional Considerations

• For Children:

  • Use a "bridge" technique for safety, spanning across front teeth.
  • Less realistic but safer.

• Character-Specific Variations:

  • Examples include characters from "My Hero Academia" and "Underworld".

• Different Colors:

  • Black beads can simulate missing teeth.

Safety Tips

• Never drink or eat while wearing the fangs.
• Ensure all materials and tools used are safe for oral use.

Conclusion

• Encouraged audience to share results or request future tutorials.
• Express gratitude for viewership and engagement.