In the mid-1960s, NBC executives were worried that the pointy-eared character "Spock" might frighten audiences. But their worries were all for naught. When "Star Trek" finally aired, Spock and his devilish looks captivated audiences. To this day, Trekkies continue to parade around as the Vulcan scientist--even recreating his pointy ears. You too can duplicate the look of science fiction's most famous alien.
Ear Molds
In order to make your own pointy ears, try the same process that Hollywood make-up artist Fred Phillips used on Leonard Nimoy back in the 1960s. According to "Inside Star Trek: The Real Story," Phillips started by creating a plaster mold of Nimoy's ear.
Obtain a bag of high-quality plaster mix, two small plastic container and molding clay. Be sure that the containers can fit over your ear.
Experts at ceramicstoday.com, suggest you mix the plaster by following the instructions on the bag. Use a mask so that you don't inhale any of the plaster. Then pour it into the plastic container. While it's still wet, make an impression of your ears.
Try putting your hair into a shower cap and wearing ear plugs before making the impression. Do one side and then the other. Let the plaster harden for a few hours, preferably overnight. Once that is done, take the molding clay and begin to fashion a mold of your ear. This you will use in making the latex ear points.
Latex Tips
Using disposable brushes, apply liquid latex to the top half of the ear molds. Like a sculptor, use your fingers to recreate the unique points of Spock's ears. Curl the points toward the face to achieve an accurate look. Continue to apply a thin coat of latex for the remainder of the tips. Once done, let the latex sit for an hour or so before applying to your ears.
Latex is delicate so use care when removing the tips from the mold lest you rip them. Slip the tips on your own ears, one at a time, and adhere with either spirit gum or liquid latex. To conceal the seams, blend with makeup.
Completing the look
To complete the look, wear a blue "Star Trek" uniform shirt from the old 1960s show, something easily found at a costume shop. Get a skin foundation with a yellow-greenish tint from the makeup counter. Apply this foundation on your ears and tips, blending with an appropriate makeup brush.
Tags: your ears, Star Trek, liquid latex, molding clay, plastic container, pointy ears