There are so many ways to inspire children to use their imaginations and have fun. Masks allow little ones to transform into their favorite characters and pretend to be anything they want. But you don’t have to run to the store to buy awesome masks, you can easily make your own with paper mache. Here’s a step-by-step guide to show you how to make a paper mache mask for any occasion.
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Supplies Needed
- Shredded newspaper or craft paper
- Flour
- Water
- Bowl
- Vaseline
- String
- Sequins, beads, paint and other embellishments
Paper Mache Recipe
Making your own paper mache recipe is fast, easy and affordable. You likely already have many of the ingredients needed to make it and you can whip up a batch whenever you need it. Just follow these steps to make it.
1: Add ½ half a cup of flour to the bowl.
2: Add 1 cup of water to the bowl.
3: Mix until it forms a thick paste.
4: Cover or use immediately.
How To Make A Simple Paper Mache Mask
One of the best things about making paper mache masks is that you have the freedom to make them however you choose. You may decide to make a simple paper mache mask or you might want to make something more elaborate and special.
Below are some easy steps to make a simple mask.
1: Decide if you want the mask to cover the entire face or just the eyes.
2: Measure the face. You will need to measure the distance between the eyes, the forehead and the length and width of the face to ensure the mask fits it properly.
3: Draw out the mask on a piece of printer paper or cardstock. It should be flexible but not too thin..
4: Drape the paper over a bowl or ball to get a rounded shape to fit the face.
5: Dip a piece of newspaper into the paper mache mixture. Make sure the paper is saturated, but remove any extra liquid by running the paper between your fingers.
6: Apply the paper across the forehead area of the mask.
7: Dip a second piece of paper and apply it to the bridge of the nose area of the mask.
8: Dip another piece of paper into the paper mache mix and apply it over the nose and under the eyes.
9: Add two more saturated pieces of paper to each side of the eyes to complete the general shape of the mask and complete the frame.
10: Continue to add more paper to the mask to create the shape or design that you want.
11: Allow the mask to dry overnight. It should be completely dry and stiff in the morning.
12: Paint the mask or add embellishments of your choice to make it special and unique.
How To Make A Paper Mache Mask To Fit Your Face
If you want your mask to fit yours or your child’s face securely, you will need to mold the paper mache around the face. This does require some time and patience, but if you are hoping to get a mask that fits perfectly, it's the best way to do it. Here are the steps to follow.
1: Mix up your paper mache mixture following the above recipe.
2: Apply a thin layer of Vaseline to your child’s face. This will prevent the mask from sticking and allow it to peel off easily.
3: Dip strips of paper into the paper mache mixture and lay them across the forehead.
4: Dip more strips and lay them across the bridge of the nose and the chin.
5: Continue to layer the strips of paper on the child’s face until the entire face is covered. Leave holes for the eyes and do not block the nostrils or mouth.
6: Allow the mask to set until it starts to harden and can be removed in one piece.
7: Place the mask in a safe place and allow it to set overnight to dry completely.
8: Paint and embellish the mask as desired.
Other Creative Mask Ideas
If you are thinking about creating a variety of different mask designs, you might be wondering how to make a paper mache masquerade mask, how to make a paper mache skull mask or even how to make a paper mache animal mask. You can make all these masks and more by following the above steps and then choosing to decorate them to fit the design of your choice.
If you want to make a masquerade mask, you may want to add sequins, pearls, beads, and feathers. If you want to make a skull mask, you can use black paint to draw around the eye and mouth holes. Animal masks can be made by using markers or paint to draw stripes, spots, and even whiskers.
FAQs
How long does it take the paper mache masks to dry?
It can take anywhere from 12 to 24 hours for a mask to dry completely. It’s best to let them dry overnight before attempting to decorate or wear them.
What type of paper works best for paper mache?
Newspaper and any other thin paper that will absorb liquid and dry quickly works best.
Is paper mache safe for children?
Yes, paper mache is safe for most children. If your child has sensitive skin you may want to avoid molding the mask on their face.
Get Creative!
Masks are just as much fun to make as they are to wear. You and your child can come up with a variety of designs and have fun decorating your masks to show off your creativity and personality. When you’re done wearing them, display them on your fridge or around your home. Don’t forget to take lots of adorable photos of your child wearing their masterpiece.
Other Great Craft Projects
If you enjoyed learning how to make a paper mache mask, you may also enjoy these other fun crafts.
- Make something special for day with these handprint father’s day crafts
- Keep your kiddos entertained all summer with the fun summer crafts for kids
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