OUR BOOKS!
Welcome to our cozy library of creativity! Our how-to books are packed with more than just instructions for crafting latex masks or creating action figures from scratch. Within these pages, you'll discover a treasure trove of knowledge, including a special section on making the tools you'll need for your projects.
Authored by the talented and self-taught special effects artist Russ Adams, these books reflect his journey of trial and error. Back in the '80s, when sculpting tools were hard to come by, Russ improvised and made his own. This resourcefulness not only equipped him with the necessary tools but also honed his self-sufficiency—something he’s eager to share with you. His motto? "Build it! Don’t buy it!"
You'll learn how to create sculpting tools, armatures, turntables, and more. Save your money for materials and those few tools you can't make yourself. The rest can be crafted from materials you likely have around the house. Dive in and start building!
Note: When you click on the book that catches your eye, you'll be redirected to Amazon.com, where you can explore Russ Adams' author page. All our books are sold through Amazon, ensuring you a safe and secure buying experience.
Latex Mask Making
In this how-to workshop series by special effects artist and creature designer Russ Adams, you will learn the latex mask-making process used by professional mask makers and Hollywood designers. This book includes in-depth step-by-step tutorials from concept to finished mask. In addition to the latex rubber mask-making process, you will learn how to save money by making your own sculpting tools, armatures, and turntables. The author shares a multitude of other professional tips from his many years of experience, including how to revitalize older raw materials like latex and clay.
Also included in this book are nearly 100 diagrams, a quick-reference mold-making checklist, and more. The information is provided by a self-taught mask maker who understands that most people don’t have a lot of money to invest in materials and equipment.
“My goal for this book is to give you the tools to succeed in your latex mask-making endeavor by guiding you through a step-by-step process that will increase your odds of success. In this book, you are going to learn more than just how to make a latex mask. I am going to rescue you from the idea that you need to buy specialized tools and equipment to succeed.” – Russ Adams
Available exclusively from Amazon and at Escape Design FX.
Creature Fur & Hair
In this how-to workshop series by special effects artist and creature designer Russ Adams, you will learn how to cover a creature in fur or hair using the same methods employed by professional Hollywood creature designers. This book features in-depth, step-by-step tutorials that cover three key procedures: furring, hair punching, and flocking. In addition to these processes, you will discover how to save money by making your own tools. Russ Adams shares a wealth of professional tips from his extensive experience, including techniques for creating patterns from three-dimensional surfaces.
Also included in this book are nearly 60 diagrams, two quick-reference checklists, and more. This comprehensive resource is provided by a self-taught special effects artist who understands the financial constraints faced by many enthusiasts.
“My goal for this book is to equip you with the tools for success by guiding you through a step-by-step process that maximizes your chances of achieving great results. You'll learn more than just how to fur a creature—I aim to dispel the myth that specialized tools and equipment are essential for success.” – Russ Adams
Making Action Figures
Are you eager to create the next great action figure sensation? Do you want to keep the project in-house and avoid spending tens of thousands of dollars on the traditional route? You can go full indie and build them yourself. Special effects artist Russ Adams, renowned for his work on the Syfy Channel's Jim Henson Creature Shop Challenge, will guide you through the process of crafting your own unique action figures from concept to production, all from the comfort of your home. This book teaches you to create your own action figures and toys, not just modify existing items.
There's no need for expensive machinery. This how-to includes tutorials for making your own tools and armatures. You'll learn sculpting techniques, fabrication, silicone mold making, casting methods, and painting tips from a supportive, self-taught special effects artist with over twenty years of experience in creature design. What are you waiting for? The world is eager for the next big action figure sensation. Let's get started!
Shrunken Heads
In this how-to workshop series by special effects artist and creature designer Russ Adams, you will learn how to create professional-looking shrunken heads using methods employed by Hollywood prop designers. This book features comprehensive, step-by-step tutorials that take you from concept to finished work of art. In addition to creating stunning shrunken heads, you will discover how to save money by making your own sculpting tools, armatures, and turntables. Russ Adams shares a wealth of professional tips drawn from his extensive experience.
Also included in this book are nearly 100 diagrams, a quick-reference mold-making checklist, and more. The author even explores the real, historical rituals of head shrinking used by Amazon tribes.
This comprehensive guide is provided by a self-taught mask maker who understands the financial constraints faced by many enthusiasts.
“My goal for this book is to equip you with the tools for success by guiding you through a step-by-step process that maximizes your chances of achieving great results. You'll learn more than just how to make a shrunken head—I aim to dispel the myth that specialized tools and equipment are essential for success.” – Russ Adams.
Surviving Reality
Surviving Reality: This Is Not That Show is a gripping tale of fame, cut-throat competition, and betrayal. In 2013, the author was selected as one of ten contestants for a new skill-based reality show called Jim Henson’s Creature Shop Challenge, which became a hit on the SyFy channel. Millions tuned in to witness the competition for a $50,000 prize and a job at Jim Henson’s Creature Shop in Burbank, California.
Initially thrilled to be chosen from nearly a thousand applicants, the author’s excitement quickly waned upon arriving at the cast house in Studio City, California. What began with the honor of being associated with Jim Henson soon turned sour. Verbal abuse by the production team, a contaminated living environment, a toxic culture, and sanctioned cheating tainted the experience from the outset.
As the dust settled and the contestants thought they had endured the worst, a final betrayal dealt the ultimate blow. One contestant’s deceit struck at the heart of the entire cast and production team, perhaps sealing the fate of this highly-rated show that would never see a second season.
You think you know reality TV, but the truth is, you don't know the half of it.
The Pocket Guide
A quick guide to making realistic shrunken heads for props, novelties, or creepy gifting. Special effect artist and author Russ Adams walks you through the step-by-step process of creating realistic latex shrunken heads. You will learn sculpting techniques, mold making, latex casting methods, and finishing work like painting, hair punching, and even tool making. One of the most important parts of this lesson is the history and methods used by head hunters to shrink actual human heads. Knowing this gruesome process helps you understand why shrunken heads look the way they do. If your goal is realism, this information is key. And all this information is packed into one small booklet.
So let's get started making these macabre ornaments! Order your copy now.