How to Customize a Hockey Goalie Mask

The cage goalie hockey mask was developed about three decades ago by Greg Harrison. Prior to the cage, goalies wore fiberglass masks that were flat and obstructed the peripheral vision. Harrison didn't stop at the change in design; he customized the masks to represent the personality of the man who wore it. The mask became a thing of intrigue and a personal statement of courage. You need courage when a puck is traveling 100mph at your head. Goalies are still making statements to their fans and their opponents by customizing their goalie masks.

Things You'll Need

  • Helmet with cage
  • Flat-head screwdriver
  • Spray paint
  • Decals
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Instructions

    • 1

      Take the screws out of the cage where it attaches to the helmet. Place the screws where you can find them later. Use a flat-head screwdriver.

    • 2

      Rub alcohol all over the helmet to clean off any dirt, grim or grease. Paint and decals adhere better to a clean surface. Use alcohol because it evaporates quickly and leaves no film behind.

    • 3

      Set the cage on a piece of newspaper outside or in a well-ventilated area. Choose a color theme that matches the personality of the goalie. Often the color scheme is the goalie's favorite color. Most cages come in two colors -- black and white. Do not paint the aluminum clips or screws that hold the cage to the helmet. Painting may cause corrosion.

    • 4

      Select decals that represent the personality of the goalie. Examples are a cougar, a shark or flames. Before permanently affixing the decals to the helmet, use painter tape to position them where you want them to go. Move them around until they are in a good place. It is not necessary to paint the helmet. Helmets come in a variety of colors. Purchase a color you like and then customize it.

    • 5

      Place the decals on the helmet by peeling off the back. Be carful and remove the backing slowly. Decals have static electricity, which causes them to cling to your fingers and the sticky side of the decal. Lay the decal on the helmet, starting with the larger portion and working your way slowly to the smaller end. As you lay the decal on the helmet, rub it smooth with your forefinger or thumb. By rubbing as you go, you will decrease the risk of getting a big wrinkle right in the middle of the decal.

    • 6

      Look at the mask and decide if it says what you want it to say. Customizing a goalie mask is all about giving the player a voice. If the helmet says what you want it to say about the goalie, you are finished. Re-attach the cage once it is dry.