Frequently Asked Mascot Questions

How long does it take to make a mascot?

Our lead time varies based on our production schedule and the complexity of the project. Below are some helpful links that will give you more insight into the mascot creation process:

  • The timeline breakdown of our Mascot making process can be found here.
  • A list of things to consider when purchasing a mascot can be found here.
  • For customers needing a quick turnaround time on the creation of their mascot, our blog about our rush order program can be found here.

 

Once the contract is signed, the 50% down payment is received, and the sketch and materials are approved, the order is placed, and production begins. If you have a specific deadline, we can do our best to meet it.

How much does a mascot cost?

It depends on the complexity of the mascot. All of our costumes are custom-made, but some require more time than others. The most basic mascots typically start at around $6,000. Our blog post on mascot pricing is a great place to get a rough idea of how much your mascot might cost. For an accurate quote, we recommend reaching out to one of our mascot specialists.

Our blog on mascot pricing can be found here.

When I am requesting a mascot quote, what information should I have available? 

The more information you can provide us, the better. Ideally, you should have a budget in mind, some initial artwork, and a good grasp on the intended use of your mascot. (i.e., activity, location, climate, types of events, etc.)

Our quote request form has multiple lines for you to input this information, as well as a place for you to upload files. If you have any mascot design artwork, branding guidelines, logos, or photos of mascots you like, please upload them!

A link to our quote request form can be found here.

What is needed prior to mascot production?

After you and our mascot specialists have a good grasp of your mascot vision, there will be a few administrative tasks to handle first. Before we start the hands-on process of creating your mascot, we’ll need several things from you. We will need:

  • Your approval on the sketch that we will base your mascot on.
  • Your approval on the samples (furs, colors, fabrics) we will use on your mascot.
  • Your submission of a 50% down payment.
  • Your signature on a contract that outlines our commitment to you and your mascot!

 

What is the process of making a mascot? 

Our process varies slightly depending on the design and complexity of a mascot. In general, though, there are 4 phases in our mascot-making process that every mascot goes through:

  1. The Research Phase – This is where we learn what you’re looking for, brainstorm some ideas together, and outline what needs to be done.
  2. The Design Phase – Arguably the most fun phase of them all, here we will turn your mascot idea into a 2D sketch. We’ll also source a selection of materials and finalize your quote and contract.
  3. The Create Phase – Once we get your final approval on everything, we’ll start creating your mascot from scratch. Upon completion, we’ll take some photographs for your final approval and ship you your mascot.
  4. The Support Phase – At this point you’ve had your mascot in your possession for some time, you might have some questions or requests that come up. We’re here to offer post-sale support to keep your mascot in tip-top shape and get the most out of your investment!

 

If you are looking for a more in-depth description of what we do, you can find a breakdown of our mascot process here.

What are mascot heads made up of?

Most of our heads are made from vacuum-formed ABS plastic, but some mascots are better suited for foam construction instead. Don’t worry, our mascot specialists have the knowledge and experience to point you in the right direction.

If you’re curious and want to read more about the different kinds of mascot heads, you can get a more in-depth explanation here.

Can you make a mascot with a fan inside it or a cold kit?

Installing a fan inside of a mascot’s head is something we can easily do, but it has to be something we plan for during the mascot design process. Not only does a mascot head need to be big enough to fit the fan inside, but we also need to create a hidden vent somewhere in it to draw in cold air from the outside world. Be sure to inquire about this optional accessory early on when talking to your mascot specialists, as it will allow us to design your mascot with that in mind!

Another option for cooling down your mascot performer is to purchase a cold kit. A cold kit can be a great alternative or addition to a fan. Our cold kits are lightweight and sit on a performer’s neck, shoulder, and chest. These cold kits use swappable ice panels to draw out heat from your mascot performer’s body. They are a great way to cool off your whole torso, rather than just your head!

You can check out our accessories page for even more cool things we can add to your mascot here.

Our blog on How To Keep Your Mascot Performer Cool can be found here.

Who pays for shipping the mascot?

The client pays for shipping the mascot costume. We have a blog with more information on shipping and storing your mascot that can be viewed here.

How do you wash a mascot costume? 

It depends on what your mascot is made of and what portion of the mascot is being cleaned. The method for cleaning the gloves, feet, and suit differs significantly from how we clean the mascot’s head and accessories.

Thankfully, we have multiple blogs that address these issues in further detail. We highly recommend giving them a read for more information. Click any one of these links to check them out:

 

If your mascot needs some serious attention beyond what you can provide at home, consider scheduling your mascot an appointment at our refurbishment center. Not only do our experts deep clean your mascot costume, they also are experts in repairing and remanufacturing mascot components. More information on our refurbishment service can be found here.

How do you store a mascot costume?

Store your custom mascot costume by hanging it up or laying it flat. Try not to store your costume in a duffel bag or tight space. Place the head where the shape won’t be damaged. Make sure the costume is completely aired out before storing. Store in a well-ventilated room at a comfortable temperature. We have a blog with more information on transporting and storing your mascot that can be viewed here.

How long do mascot costumes last? 

The longevity of a mascot costume ultimately depends on how often it is used and how well you take care of it. A mascot that is maintained and stored properly will last longer than one that isn’t. A mascot is a long-term investment, if treated as such, it can last upwards of a decade. We’ve been in the mascot business for over 5 decades now, it’s not uncommon to hear of mascots we made in the early 2000s still being used today!

One such example of a mascot lasting over a decade is the case of Moe the Manatee. We made the original Moe all the way back in 2001 for the Manatee Center in Fort Pierce, Florida. For 23 years he battled the Florida sun and humidity before being officially retired. You can read more about him and the story of the Manatee Center here!

How do you perform as a mascot?

Acting as a mascot is an art form that anybody can master. The goal of a mascot performer is to be animated and welcoming to onlookers without speaking. It can take a good amount of preparation and practice to knock your mascot performance out of the park. Thankfully we’ve got your back with multiple blogs on the subject and an awesome video:

 

Do you have any stock mascots I can rent or buy off the shelf?

We do not rent mascots, nor do we have any mascots that you can buy off the shelf. All of the mascots we produce are made-to-order, custom-designed for each organization or individual.

Can you make a licensed character?

If you possess the license for the character you wish to create—or have written legal approval from the license holder—we can help. This paperwork should be prepared and presented to us immediately upon your submission of a quote request.