Nothing matches the opulence and beauty of a decorative masquerade mask. Not only are these bejeweled creations wonderful for decorating your home, they can also be worn to fancy or costume parties. Despite their lavish appearance, masquerade masks are quite easy to create. Simply follow the easy instructions below and you will have a lovely craft to wear or display.
Materials Needed for Masquerade Mask
1. Newspaper ripped into strips
2. White, clear-drying glue
3. White acrylic paint
4. Decorative paint
5. An elastic cord
6. Feathers, beads, glitter, sequins or other trim
Crafting the Decorative Mask
The masquerade mask is fashioned with a simple paper mache method. You will start by using plastic wrap to cover the forehead, eyes, cheeks, and nose of a willing friend. Make sure airways are not blocked. Using three or four layers will assure that your friend will not get anything in his or her eyes or nose.
After the face is covered, you will begin the paper mache process. Dip the strips of newspaper into a white glue and water mixture and squeeze off excess. Then, layer the newspaper over the plastic wrap, being sure to mold the paper mache to the shape of the face. Do several layers so it will be thick enough to handle.
Remove the plastic wrap from your partner’s face and set it aside to dry. You must make sure that the shape does not collapse as it dries. After the base shape is dry, you will cut a smooth line around the outside edge and cut eyeholes. After doing that, continue to layer the newspaper paper mache onto the masquerade mask, wrapping the edges so they are smooth.
Decorating the Masquerade Mask
After the mask is completely dry, it should get a base coat of white primer paint. After that is dry, you can paint and decorate the mask in any way you want. Painting it in bright colors or patterns is a great idea. You can even add glitter, sequins, or three dimensional paint accents.
After the painting of the mask is complete, you can finish the elegant masquerade mask with plumes of ostrich or peacock feathers, dangling lines of beads or bells, or lace and fancy trims.
Fitting the Mask for Wearing or Hanging
In order to fit the mask so that you can wear it, you would simply have to poke a hole on either side of the mask and insert the stretchy cord. Knot it securely on the other side of the holes so that it stays in place on the face.
If you want to display the masquerade mask on the wall, you can attach a hanging wire across the back or make a look of cord to hang on a peg or nail.
Creating a decorative masquerade mask requires only a few simply steps. With paper mache, paint, beads, and feathers, you will be able to craft a lavish addition to your costume wardrobe. These masks also make fabulous decorator accents to hang on your wall or display in other ways. Craft decorative masquerade masks to bring some mystery and magic to your life.
