How to Make Paper Mache Masks

You can create some amazing paper crafts using paper mache paste. Paper mache face masks are one of the popular paper mache projects used during theme parties, fancy dress events, etc. You can learn how to make paper mache masks in seven easy steps given below. Once you learn how to make paper mache masks, you can try some variations, and create unique masks to match your outfits according to the party theme.

How to Make Paper Mache Masks?
Paper mache or papier-mâché, is a substance made using paper pulp. Wondering how to make paper mache? It is quite easy. Let's understand this procedure step by step.

1. Take an old newspaper. Cut it into small strips of about 2 inches X 8 inches. You can use any paper except the glossy part.
2. Make a mixture of white flour and warm water in a large plastic bowl. Add one teaspoon salt to it. Mix all the ingredients to form a paste.
3. Put the paper strips in this mixture.
4. Take an inflated toy balloon. This will make the perfect base for molding the paper mache. This can also be used for paper mache face masks and other projects. Read more on paper mache instructions: recipe to make paper mache.

Now let's see how to make paper mache masks in the following steps.

Step 1
Inflate the balloon, and the final size of balloon should be equivalent to that of your face. Place a plastic table cloth on the table before you start with the project.

Step 2
Now place the dipped paper strips, one by one, on the balloon. Pieces should overlap properly, so that the balloon is not visible. Cover the the entire balloon properly with one full layer of paper. Now this can be really messy, but believe me, it's fun.

Step 3
Once the balloon is completely covered, start placing the second layer of dipped paper strips. Once you finish with the second layer, start with the third layer. Now leave this for drying, until it hardens. You can add additional layers too. Once it dries, this will give you the basic shape.

Step 4
Now, the balloon is completely covered with paper mache and dried properly. Pop the balloon using a pin or a pair of scissors and remove the balloon. Now you have a hollow paper mache ball ready.

Step 5
Cut the paper mache ball to obtain two halves. You can make one mask out of each half. Cut out two oval holes for eyes and cut a slit for the mouth with scissors. The paper mache might be a little hard due to the multiple layers, so you can use a sharp razor knife. Apply more paper mache layers over the cut edges. Make two slits on each side for ears. You can make a clown's nose, eyebrows, and ears in unique shapes using more paper mache.

Step 6
Laundry lint can be used for eyebrows. Soak it in the paper mache paste and use for eyebrows, mustaches, horns, and other decorations.

Step 7
Paint this mask with non-toxic water paints. You can add decorative objects like sparkles or straw hair using glue. First paint the entire mask with a base paint and then start the detailing of the eyes, nose, eyebrows and other decorative designs. White acrylic paint is best for the base coat. Read more on various arts and crafts.

Once you learn how to make paper mache masks, you can easily experiment with variations in its size, shape, decorations and colors. Remember that the paper mache is not waterproof. If you want to make a water proof mask, you can apply two layers of varnish over it. When you teach your kids how to make paper mache masks, help them in the basic part and let them do the coloring, and don't worry about perfection. Weird shaped masks do look really awesome. You can also try other kids crafts. So unleash your creativity and imagination and make some unique and funny paper mache masks.