A Chat With Tuft Squad's Mask-Er-Mind!

PW: Olá! Thank you for doing this interview. I've always loved your work, and the chance to show you off to the world is an amazing treat! Can you tell us a little about yourself and the Tuft Squad journey?

TS: I have been working since 2019 making masks and leather items that cater to the fetish world. The masks are inspired by animals and cater to the fetish known as pet play. I started in 2019 with the dog masks, which are the most popular. In 2020, due to the pandemic, fetish items had a huge increase in consumption, which made my production grow, selling in Brazil and abroad.

I increased the range of mask models, which also increased sales potential. In 2021, I opened my first physical store where fetish items can be sold in person and where I added new products to serve the LGBTQ+ community (where pet play is very popular). In the physical store, I emphasized the artistic character of my products by including decorative items and artworks in my sales catalog. I also allocated space for products from other artists and artisans in the city who focus on the fetish universe and LGBTQ+ representation.

PW: How did you create the perfect process for your designs?

TS: It all started with the masks. I experimented quite a lot. I began by modeling, gluing, and sewing leather. The end result was a truly innovative masking solution that resonated with pup and pet play enthusiasts in Brazil and beyond.

PW: What materials are you now using in your masks?

TS: The mask is made of leather on the outside. Internally, there is an E.V.A. foam rubber structure with silicone. The combination of the two materials produces a type of "neoprene" with a leather coating. External cowhide is even used in clothing items (shirts and pants), as it is extremely soft and durable. The internal EVA foam rubber protects the leather from sweat and makes cleaning the mask easier.

PW: I know you specialize in custom work. What happens once a customer orders a custom mask or hood from Tuft Squad?

TS: The creation process takes place together with the client. We start by choosing a model with the appropriate details. After deciding on the mask's shape, we begin to create characteristics that define the traits of the dog's breed. We then define the color scheme. This can include the realistic colors of an actual dog or stylized colors that have an emotional meaning for the client. Finally, we create a sketch based on a photo rendering, and then the manufacturing process begins.

PW: What is your favorite part of that “creation process?”

TS: One of my favorite parts of the manufacturing process is when the hood is painted with an artistic design. As a teacher of painting and watercolor, I enjoy applying my artistic skills at this stage.

PW: Does Tuft Squad offer other accessories that complement your masks and hoods?

TS: The positive feedback was so strong that it led to requests for a greater variety of products. Today, Tuft Squad offers harnesses, jocks, collars, clothing, and even incorporates LGBTQ+ representation themes. We're here to cater to all aspects of the fetish world!

PW: How does Tuft Squad get involved in the community?

TS: Tuft Squad always participates in fetish events held in Brazil whenever possible. We are already sponsors of the annual Mister Fetiche Brazil contest. We proudly sponsor carnival blocks that are fetish-themed or show support for the LGBTQ+ community.

PW: Congratulations! You are making quite an impression. So, what do you love the most about what you do?

TS: I love seeing customers receive their masks, and feeling free to show off their bodies on social media. Many people are shy or have low self-esteem. I understand and appreciate how wearing a mask and adopting a pup or animal persona has helped many people build self-confidence.

PW: That philosophy resonates in everything you do. Thank you! One more thing… What’s on the horizon for Tuft Squad?

TS: This year we plan on launching our lion design (big cats)! We are very excited because this has been a frequent customer request.

PW: Thank you for this opportunity to learn more about you and Tuft Squad. We wish you all the best and continued success! Parabéns!

Tuft Squad

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Tuft Squad website