superjedi
Sr Hunter
Hi all!
I was recently asked via PM if I had any advice on ways to take care of a helmet. It's not a topic that I can remember seeing in any detail, so I thought I'd offer some tips.
A completed helmet, especially one that someone has had painted and built on commission, can be a significant investment, and protecting that investment is probably high on the owner's priority list. So with that in mind, here are some suggestions, in no particular order of importance...
HANDLE WITH CARE
Most helmets sold nowadays are constructed with fiberglass. This makes for a strong yet flexible piece. But you should still take care when handling your bucket.
First, watch those butterfingers! I've heard of a handful of tragic instances where the owner (or a family member/friend) has had their helmet slip out of their hands and... well, you can imagine the results.
Keep a firm grip on that lid!
Second, be aware that even though the construction is strong, cutting out the visor area creates weak points. Avoid handling the helmet by the visor and cheeks. I always hold my helmets at the sides or rear panels.
Third, when you're carrying the helmet, give walls and doorways a wide berth. We know that Jango and his clones had a history of bonking their heads against stuff, but you don't have to!
GRUBBY LITTLE PAWS
When I complete a helmet I always hit it with a clearcoat. My preferred type is Testors Dullcoat. It's a lacquer spray and it provides for a pretty rugged finish. But it's not impervious to oils and dirt. I always wash my hands before handling my helmets.
I'm not saying you have to use archival cotton gloves or anything, but maybe wash your hands before picking up your helmet if you've just finished a chili dog.
I also handle it around the bottom edge of the rear panels as much as possible, just to minimize the transfer of skin oils to the helmet surface.
STAND AND DELIVER
I highly recommend displaying your helmet on some type of stand. Something that will keep the helmet from resting on its bottom edge. I've made stands from a $3.00 paper towel holder, or used styrofoam heads.
If you leave the helmet resting on its base, eventually (long term) you run the moderate risk of the dreaded "mandible spread."
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION
If possible, try to display your helmet out of direct sunlight. Over long periods, UV light can begin to fade or change the appearance of colors.
Also, try to place the helmet away from high traffic areas to avoid any accidental bumps. If you're displaying it on a wall-mounted shelf, make sure it's secure and can handle the helmet's weight.
DUSTING/CLEANING
If your helmet is displayed out in the open, eventually it'll accumulate some dust. I like to use Swiffer cloths to dust my collection. The dry type, not the wet ones. I absolutely do not recommend using any type of cleaning spray or solution on your helmet! Not even water.
That's are what I can think of right now. Hopefully these tips will help you keep your helmet in tip top shape for many years to come!
If you guys have more tips or advice, please add to the list!
Keep on Fettin'!
I was recently asked via PM if I had any advice on ways to take care of a helmet. It's not a topic that I can remember seeing in any detail, so I thought I'd offer some tips.
A completed helmet, especially one that someone has had painted and built on commission, can be a significant investment, and protecting that investment is probably high on the owner's priority list. So with that in mind, here are some suggestions, in no particular order of importance...
HANDLE WITH CARE
Most helmets sold nowadays are constructed with fiberglass. This makes for a strong yet flexible piece. But you should still take care when handling your bucket.
First, watch those butterfingers! I've heard of a handful of tragic instances where the owner (or a family member/friend) has had their helmet slip out of their hands and... well, you can imagine the results.
Keep a firm grip on that lid!Second, be aware that even though the construction is strong, cutting out the visor area creates weak points. Avoid handling the helmet by the visor and cheeks. I always hold my helmets at the sides or rear panels.
Third, when you're carrying the helmet, give walls and doorways a wide berth. We know that Jango and his clones had a history of bonking their heads against stuff, but you don't have to!
GRUBBY LITTLE PAWS
When I complete a helmet I always hit it with a clearcoat. My preferred type is Testors Dullcoat. It's a lacquer spray and it provides for a pretty rugged finish. But it's not impervious to oils and dirt. I always wash my hands before handling my helmets.
I'm not saying you have to use archival cotton gloves or anything, but maybe wash your hands before picking up your helmet if you've just finished a chili dog.
I also handle it around the bottom edge of the rear panels as much as possible, just to minimize the transfer of skin oils to the helmet surface.
STAND AND DELIVER
I highly recommend displaying your helmet on some type of stand. Something that will keep the helmet from resting on its bottom edge. I've made stands from a $3.00 paper towel holder, or used styrofoam heads.
If you leave the helmet resting on its base, eventually (long term) you run the moderate risk of the dreaded "mandible spread."
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION
If possible, try to display your helmet out of direct sunlight. Over long periods, UV light can begin to fade or change the appearance of colors.
Also, try to place the helmet away from high traffic areas to avoid any accidental bumps. If you're displaying it on a wall-mounted shelf, make sure it's secure and can handle the helmet's weight.
DUSTING/CLEANING
If your helmet is displayed out in the open, eventually it'll accumulate some dust. I like to use Swiffer cloths to dust my collection. The dry type, not the wet ones. I absolutely do not recommend using any type of cleaning spray or solution on your helmet! Not even water.
That's are what I can think of right now. Hopefully these tips will help you keep your helmet in tip top shape for many years to come!
If you guys have more tips or advice, please add to the list!
Keep on Fettin'!
