Professional Mascot Costumes Build Process

At Hogtown Mascots, we will be there every step of the way from sketches to delivery. Our knowledgeable staff can provide you with everything you need to know, no matter what stage of creation your custom mascot is in. Below you’ll find an outline of the processes involved in making professional mascot costumes from start to finish.

Mascot Design and Drawing Stage

First, you will come to us with your idea. Describe it to us, or you can send us a picture, drawing or even something as simple as a sketch on a napkin. If you don’t have any ideas for what your mascot should be, we can also help you develop a concept for  your professional mascot costume. This is what we specialize in, so we are excellent at converting ideas into reality!

After we have gathered all of your information, we will sketch out your character and provide you with a detailed quote which includes a summary of each component outlined in the sketch.

Once you are satisfied with the sketch, you just have to send in a signed copy of the quote along with a deposit and we will begin making your new mascot. When we schedule the making of your mascot, we will always provide you with an estimated completion date as well.

From there, we get to work on the mascot’s basic components. The head is often the most time-consuming part of the build, and usually the first on the list. The head design of the mascot should always ensure maximum visibility and airflow for the performer who wears the mascot.

Online Updates

Once the basic components of the mascot are built – head, inner body and feet – we will post the first images on your personal client page and give you a password so you and anyone on your team can access the photos and information. The first update allows you to see the general shape and proportions of the mascot before we begin to cover or finish anything. This is the time to make any changes to the shape of the head or body. We post further updates at various stages up to and including the finished mascot.

Not only is this an extremely cool feature we offer but it also allows you to see and approve the different stages of design and details. We always get your final approval before your mascot leaves our construction studio!

Building Materials and Techniques

For construction of the head, components for most standard shapes are 3D modelled and printed. For more complex designs, several types of rigid and flexible foam are cut and formed into the basic shape. Once the head is formed, a carver builds up the features of the head using the original design as a guide. Holes are then cut for the facial features and the helmet is installed. The head is then tested to ensure adequate visibility and proper movement and alignment with the rest of the costume.

In the finishing department, the head is covered with fabric (whether it be faux fur, antron fleece or other material) and it is glued down and any seams are sewn shut. Eyes, mouths and other features are installed into the head, and a battery powered fan can then be installed to bring fresh air in for the performer. The fan can easily be turned on and off with a convenient switch.

The body, hands and feet are constructed with a similar technique. The inner body of the mascot is made with a breathable foam between two layers of sports mesh to ensure that the performer is comfortable, and the mascot maintains the correct body shape. The feet are also patterned and carved out of foam and adhered onto a thick rubber sole to ensure maximum life. The inside of the feet can be friction fit or have a removable booty or straps – depending on the specific needs of the client and/or performer.

Depending on the shape of the mascot (whether it’s skinny, large, tall, wide, etc.) accessories and additions such as tubing will be added to stay true to the mascot’s original design features.

Once the head is covered and the rest of the body suit constructed, another update is posted online for the client’s approval. After any additional tweaking and final approval, the mascot is ready to ship!

Whether you’re in the market for a mascot costume for the first time, you need a replacement, or you’re looking for a new, fresh way to represent your company or school we can help. Call us today at 1-877-622-8422