To be honest James I've never made one. And these helmets would not do very well as paintball masks, I've seen them take a hit from a paintball and they don't hold up. Also you've just started learning, I was the same way when I started and it's frustrating cause you want to get it done but you have to take your time and work at it you'll get the helm you want and have the satisfaction of saying I built this. If you need advice look into the mentor program, there are plenty of veterans that are willing to help YOU make your armor and encourage YOU to learn the skills needed to do it.