No, I start with a crumpled piece of paper and armature wire.

Two to three weeks. Sometimes a more difficult face could take a bit longer, four weeks or so.

I have about 12 different tools that I use for texture, depending on the detail. I don't know the specific name for each one but they range from very open cell foam sponges, to Kemper brand tools.

It's very personal picking out a tool and getting the feel of it in your hand. In the beginning it's a lot of trial and error. It's best to experiment what works for you.