..::New Mer::..

[MermaidDiaries1]

I'm a new mermaid and have a few questions about the strange, new, and exciting world of mermaids. First, what are the more preferred or better latex tails out there. I am yet to get a tail and I am completely dumbfounded by which tails I should get. There are so many choices(not really)! Then what type of tops are best for more swimming? Is mertailor trust-able? Are there any jobs that would take a young mermaid(15 years old)? Best children tails(for younger sister)? And for the world of fantasy what are the cheapest latex elf ears?

[Kanti]

I've gotten my elf ears from: http://www.aradanicostumes.com/articles/elf_ears_tutorial.php
They make great ears for pretty darn cheap and theyre easy to wear so those are my favorite so far xD
As for tails, it really depends on how much you're willing to spend.
Latex tails are alright, but just make sure it's latex that you're getting. A lot of tailmakers don't use latex at all because it requires molds. What you usually get from a "latex" tail is actually caulking.

[Lotus]

Hey there! Welcome to the network.
In regard to tails.... it may be wise to start out with a fabric tail. They are less expensive and will give you a great start getting used to swimming in a tail. It's different for sure... I agree with Kanti- latex is alright, but it's fairly expensive and they seem to be really high maintenance. Plus you will most likely get a tail made with caulking. If you have questions about tail makers, read the tail maker threads, and talk directly with people who have tails from a handful of makers. Read the tail making threads too- you may find you want to make your own first! As for tops, I swim in a top I made from a strapless bra or a plain old bikini top depending on how I'm feeling that day. It's up to you, really, just make sure it's comfy and supports you. AS for places who would hire a mermaid under 18, I personally have no idea who would be hiring for that kind of work outside of Colorado, but I do know that the aquarium in Denver will not hire mermaids under the age of 18. It's all about the labor laws, you know? Hone your skills as a mer now- become a really strong swimmer and get scuba certified. By the time you're 18 you'll be ready to go!
hope some of that helps. :)

[MermaidBrittany]

Welcome! I also agree with getting a fabric tail first. It gets you used to having something wrapped completely around your legs. Since the latex is also rather difficult maintain, it would be best to have all of your "learning experiences" in a tail that is less expensive. That way if something goes wrong its not as big of a blow.
I also seriously doubt that anyone would be hiring anyone under 18 for anything. Like Lotus said, child labor laws would be the main factor, but there are also other aspects involved that would influence their decision.

[Mermaid Harmony]

Hi darling! Welcome to a fantastic site! I'm excited for you to explore and learn. You can get a latex tail, just know that it's not going to last long, many times latex peels, can come uncured, and there has been many problems with it. Most tailmakers have stopped making latex tails because of the issues they were causing. Mertailor is like any tail maker, with many different experiences being had with him, his new silicone work, is absolutely breath taking, if you are still growing though I'd get a fabric tail, or at least a monofin to practice with, drowning when you get your tail is usually not good. ;-) For your younger sister you can make one out of spandex, but get her a fabric tail if she'd like one. And you can volunteer in your tail, maybe even do birthday parties. There are few businesses that will hire a mermaid for their tanks, so that leaves many to find other avenues and to be creative, festivals, parades, parties, sitting at restaurants singing, have fun with it, and I'm sure opportunities will come up for you, you just need to speak up and ask! Hope this helped!

[MermaidIsis]

Well hello! Welcome to mernetwork! If you have any questions, feel free to ask!

[telzey.amberdon]

Welcome! I might say your choice of fins should come first. Monofins are not inexpensive, would you try duct tape fins? Good swimming!