Cobwebs

Artificial cobwebs placed strategically in dingy interior scenes provide an atmosphere that would be difficult to achieve in any other way. These cobwebs, usually latex-based, are sprayed from a hand-held dispenser.

Cobweb gun

Basically, the cobweb dispenser is an electric motor on the spindle of which is fitted a cylindrical reservoir containing the latex solution. It is sealed with a flat plate held in position on the spindle by an adjustable nut. The fit between the plate and the lip of the container must be good, because it is from this gap that the latex is spun in the form of threads. If the plate is screwed down too tightly no filaments emerge, whereas if the gap is too great, latex spins out in messy gobs. The fan fitted behind the container blows the latex filaments onto the set. Its blades can be constructed from thick rubber sheet or, alternatively, they may be formed of metal and protected by a suitable guard.

For convenience, some cobweb guns operate on low voltage. This means that they can be run from the power supply, via a step-down transformer, or they can be run from batteries.

Applying cobwebs

Latex cobwebs remain sticky for some time and while being applied they adhere readily to most surfaces and to themselves. Nevertheless to get them to build up in an open space it is necessary to provide some type of framework. Usually it is sufficient to string fine cotton threads across the void. In most cases these may be severed after they have done their job and allowed to go limp.

Where it is difficult to build up very large amounts of cobwebs, the work can be speeded up by using the spun plastic filaments used for Christmas decorations. These can be teased out and hung about the set.

Latex cobwebs should be dusted liberally with talcum-powder when the spraying is complete. This makes them more visible and the fallout powder suitably complements the scene.

The mixture

Some latex preparations may be used without modification, but others have to be diluted to render them thin enough to spin properly. Care must be taken when using these substances as some are sufficiently inflammable to contravene studio fire regulations.

COBWEBS

A cobweb gun designed to be used with an electric drill.
Photo: Concept Engineering Ltd.