How to Make a Paper Mache Ethnic Mask?

In this project we will make a mask out of paper mache. We will also make a foamboard stand for displaying the mask, in the vertical position.

The supplies for this project are

1. Paper mache
2. Gauze cloth
3. Clay modelling tools
4. Water color paints and brushes
5. Newspaper
6. Black and Blue Sketch Pen
7. Foamboard
8. Glue
9. Cutter

Search for images online and find a mask you find interesting and wish to make.

Then make a rough sketch of it to better understand the design of the mask

We first make ball of a newspaper. First we keep a layer of gauze cloth on this and then we wrap the paper mache. The gauze cloth will keep the structure sturdy and it will be easier to handle if the mask breaks. Now we will use our hands to give shape to the mask.

We will use small quantities of paper mache to make the nose and eyes. We can use the clay modelling tools to help shape, smoothen and give texture to the mask. Water should be used to smoothen the creases and cracks in the mask

Refer to the images to get an idea of how to shape the eyes, mouth and nose.

We leave the mask for a couple of days, and let the mask dry. Once it has dried, we apply a coating of primer on the mask. This white coating will allow us to paint on the mask,

We use water colors to paint the mask. We first take the brush and paint the face area in a mustard colour. Then we take red colour to paint the lips red and then brown to paint the head decoration

Be careful with the paint, as adding to much water might damage the mask.

Now we add details to the mask using a sketchpen. Note that this step can be done using paints if you are skilled enough to give the finer details with a brush.

First we outline the lips and colour the eyes. Then we add the eyebrows and other designs. For the head decoration, I used blue sketchpen as well to make the design. Here you can be be as creative as you like.

Since the mask can not be visible when it is lying down on the ground, we also make a stand for it to display. We use white foamboard for this, as it is light weight and easy to cut. The mask stand size and dimensions must be cutomized to fit your mask size.

Once the stand is made, click some pictures of it in some good lighting with a good camera and share it on social media!