INCOGNITO FX STUDIOS

BUILD GUIDE

DIY STUDIO EDITION

Welcome to the studio. You are now holding a high-grade, professional ABS resin blank. This is the exact same raw foundation we use on our own workbenches. Follow these steps to prep, paint, and assemble your custom piece.

Phase 1: Surface Prep (Crucial)

Because this is a professional resin cast, you must prep the surface before painting so your work actually sticks.

Wash: Gently wash the raw mask in warm water with a small amount of standard dish soap. This removes any microscopic dust or residual mold release agents from the casting process. Dry it completely.

Scuff (Optional but recommended): Lightly go over the surface with a fine-grit sanding sponge (400–600 grit). This gives the resin some "tooth" for the primer to grip onto.

Phase 2: Priming

Do not skip the primer. A premium paint job requires a solid base.

Apply 1 to 2 light, even coats of a high-quality spray primer (automotive filler primer or standard plastic-safe acrylic primer works perfectly).

Allow it to cure completely in a well-ventilated area before moving to paint.

Phase 3: The Custom Build

This is your blank canvas.

Paint: You can use spray paint, airbrush, or hand-painted acrylics. Build your colours in thin layers rather than one heavy coat to preserve the sculpted details of the cast.

Seal: Once your paint is fully dry, lock it in. Apply a clear top coat (matte, satin, or gloss, depending on your desired finish) to protect your artwork from chipping and UV fading.

Phase 4: Final Assembly

Main Hardware: For mounting and securing the mesh inside the shell, use a high-strength CA glue (Superglue) or a 2-part epoxy. (Note: Standard craft glue or hot glue will not create a permanent studio-grade bond on ABS resin).

Attaching the Mesh Details (Heart & Cross): Lining these up perfectly on the mesh can be tricky. Use this exact studio method for flawless alignment:

Dry-Fit & Mark: Before applying any glue, place the piece on the mesh exactly where you want it. Use a white pencil, chalk, or a fine paint pen to put a tiny white dot on the mesh at each corner of the shape.

The Tape Handle (Pro Tip): Roll a small piece of masking tape and stick it to the front of the heart or cross. Use this as a handle so your fingers do not block your line of sight while placing the piece.

The Slow-Cure Glue: Do not use thin, instant-dry liquid superglue. Use a Gel Superglue or a heavy-duty adhesive like E6000. Apply a small dab, line the piece up inside your white corner dots, and press. This specific glue gives you the crucial time needed to gently slide and realign the shape perfectly before it permanently sets.

Tag us in your final build: We want to see what you create with this canvas. Tag your finished work on social media so the studio can share it!