Materials Used To Build A Mascot

Have you ever wondered what is used to create those team mascots that jump around acting crazy and exciting the fans with their antics? Well, depending on the inspiring creature they are modeled after, there can be many different materials used on the exterior of the mascot, but the initial form is usually made of polyethylene, a type of plastic known for its durability and flexibility. In the past, mascots were usually made of fiberglass which is a heavier and less flexible material, making it impractical upon the invention of polyethylene. Today polyethylene is the most widely used plastic on the planet, thanks to its wide range of uses including building a sturdy and long lasting mascot!

In addition to sports team mascots, there are corporate mascots, school mascots, international mascots, organizational mascots and even municipal mascots for cities and towns! Since there are so many different types of mascots, they can be made of many different materials. Sometimes papier mache or cardboard are used in creating mascots on a limited budget. These mascots may have to be replaced intermittently due to their more fragile construction. The head on these mascots are especially prone to damage and consequently may have their appearance subtly altered each time they are replaced. Other mascots use only a fabric shell, such as wool, double knit, plush or spandex in their construction and can either be covered with added materials or serve the purpose alone. Once in a while, the mascot consists merely of the human form wearing a costume of some type, like a pirate or a gladiator.

Some large mascot costumes incorporate a harness system that straps the shell onto the performer and holds it away from the body. Heads on these types of mascot costumes may consist of a hockey-type mask with a chin strap to keep them in place and are covered with a suitable material that matches the rest of the costume.

Since mascots come in many shapes and forms, the shell is covered with a wide array of suitable and appropriate materials including faux fur, paint, feathers or fabric. Of course, most mascots have eyes which come in many shapes and sizes and depend upon the species of mascot. The feet of a mascot are very important, as it spends a lot of time running and jumping around and even performing various acrobatic tricks. Often, the feet of a polyethylene mascot will be made of the same material since it can really take a beating. Sometimes, the feet of a mascot, as well as a beak or snout or similar protrusion, will be made of Styrofoam or an equally suitable plastic. Whatever the material, the feet must have some type of skid resistance built in to accommodate the constant movement.

Above all, since the mascot is such an active part of any team, the costume construction should be durable, flexible and last through an inordinate amount of wear and tear. This will assure the effectiveness of a mascot through many a season.