How to do a paper mache mask

Last Updated: March 4, Approved.

Learn how to make a paper mache mask! Over time, there have been many ancient art forms that have become part of modern crafts. Paper mache is one of those art forms and is especially useful for making facial masks. Whether you have a costume party to go to or want to add some decor to your next themed party, we'll go over the easiest ways to make a paper mache mask. The supplies for paper mache masks are easily found at home and in art and crafts stores.

How to do a paper mache mask

Using paper mache to create custom masks is an age old tradition, and there are a lot of ways to do it. In this Instructable I'll show you how to use wire mesh and paper strips to create a base that is perfectly fitted to your face. This is a really simple technique that produces some pretty great results. I'll also show you how I added details to my mask by sculpting over that base with paper mache clay. Paper mache clay is a cheap and awesome air-dry sculpting material that you can either make, or buy pre-made. To learn more about the different kinds and how to make it, check out my free Paper Mache Class. To create the base of our mask we are going to use sculpting mesh to form the shape which will be covered with paper mache strips. This kind of wire mesh is sold at art supply stores in various densities. It is very formable an stretchable, and used to create the bases of a lot of sculptural projects. I bought the mesh with the smallest holes because the texture is the easiest to cover up, but any will really work in this situation. To start creating your mask, first take some basic measurements of your own face or whoever you are making a mask for with your cloth measuring tape. Measure top of forehead to chin, then measure down to the eyes and draw a perpendicular line. Mark the bottom of the nose, and the distance between the eyes, then the distance from ear to ear.

Then use your scissors to cut out the eyes. Once you have your mask armature formed, cover it with paper strips. Again, use smaller pieces around the curves -- nose, eyes, mouth.

Many traditional cultures use masks as a way to celebrate their spiritual beliefs, but most of us, kids and adults alike, just have fun pretending to be someone else. And there are those of us who just really like using masks as wall art. In fact, this orangutan mask is on my wall, but it could be used as a traditional mask by making eye holes to see out of. Note: We have over tutorials on this site about how to make paper mache masks and sculptures. There are lots of different ways to make a mask, and some of them are even easier than this one! To see how to make a wearable mask using paper mache over a sculpted clay model, click here.

Learn how to make a paper mache mask! Over time, there have been many ancient art forms that have become part of modern crafts. Paper mache is one of those art forms and is especially useful for making facial masks. Whether you have a costume party to go to or want to add some decor to your next themed party, we'll go over the easiest ways to make a paper mache mask. The supplies for paper mache masks are easily found at home and in art and crafts stores. As there is very little drying time, your masks will be ready in no time!

How to do a paper mache mask

Paper mache is a fun and easy way to sculpt just about anything. The best part is that it only takes a little flour and water to get the job done. Make a strong mask that will fit your face perfectly with this complete photo tutorial. Once you have all your materials handy, let's get started.

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Co-authored by:. I already finished the paper Mache steps. Have your friend slowly scrunch up their face. She worked as a graphic designer before starting her own business. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. If you are wanting to create a costume or bird-themed mask, decorate the edges with feathers. Let your mask dry completely, and then turn it over. I'm having a ball, and all my friends like my stuff. Tissues dipped in the paste mix is very malleable. Don't subscribe All new comments Replies to my comments Notify me of followup comments via e-mail. Thanks Helpful 5 Not Helpful 0.

Using paper mache to create custom masks is an age old tradition, and there are a lot of ways to do it. In this Instructable I'll show you how to use wire mesh and paper strips to create a base that is perfectly fitted to your face. This is a really simple technique that produces some pretty great results.

Cathy Reply. To do that, I rolled pieces of tape and stuck them on, then taped over them. You can make ears, cheekbones, eyebrows, mustaches -- anything you can imagine. I use the paper type. This article has been viewed , times. You can see the details I created with the home-made clay in the first photo and the Paperclay in the second. Flexbond is a lot like wood glue, but creates a smoother finish and can be wet-sanded after it is dry if you want an even smoother finish. Please log in with your username or email to continue. Co-authored by:. Rated this article:. Again, just to reiterate, mine has already been covered in newspaper strips from a previous craft, so that's why my styrofoam head looks the way it does. At this point, you might start thinking that it looks terrible and nothing like a mask. Again, use smaller pieces around the curves -- nose, eyes, mouth.