If you are going to the Mardi Gras you need a mask ! Here’s a great book to get you in the spirit -so that you are ready for The Big Party on March %th!!
Learn how to make paper mache masks easily and quickly with these new techniques and over 300 step-by-step photos.
Make one of the 12 popular mask styles in the book. Once you learn these methods, you can use them to create your own unique designs for a play, Halloween, Mardi Gras – or just for fun.
Start out with a simple mask form and oil-based clay, and sculpt the features of your masks. The author shows you how. Then cover your sculpture with just two layers of super-strong, fast-setting paper mache, using the recipes included in the book. The clay can be used over and over again, and each mask you make will be a one-of-a-kind original.
When the paper mache is dry, use an easy painting method to make your sculpted mask look like it’s made out of fur or feathers, antique gold, ancient bone, rusted iron, glazed porcelain, or carved and highly polished wood.
The innovative methods in this book are easy, the materials cost just pennies per mask, and your new creations will be even more fun to make than they are to wear. This book takes the art of paper mache masks to a whole new level.
Middle school students can make a mask using the ideas in the book. The book has also been used as a starting point for many amateur theater groups, by high school drama classes, and by adults of all ages looking for a new craft or hobby.
Homemade Paper mache
- Flour
- water
- bowl/ whisk
To make this paste, you will need one part flour to two parts water .
- Pour the flour and water in a large bowl and stir it well. You want the mixture to be thin, with a consistency similar to pancake batter. Keep mixing until all lumps are gone. This batter should be the constancy of glue.
- You need to use strips of newspaper only, or even paper tissues or towels. Let the newspaper strips soak in the paper mache glue a little before using. Cover your artwork with only 2-3 layers, then let dry completely. This will depend on the weather and humidity. So facter this in while doing this project.
Felt Mask :
- felt squares
- ribbons,feathers and jewels
- Cut the pattern onto felt, Cut out and decorate with craft supplies
Why wear a mask ?
n the beginning, masks worn during Mardi Gras allowed wearers to escape society and class constraints. When wearing a mask, carnival goers were free to be whomever they wanted to be, and mingle with whatever class they desired to mingle with. However, they were also considered to be a diversion for poor people, and women who wore masks had their reputation questioned.
Today, everyone wears masks during Mardi Gras. In fact, float riders are required to wear masks by law. On Fat Tuesday, everyone is free to wear masks, adding to the excitement and magic of celebrations throughout the city. Lisa
Lisa s Everyday Life 
Informative and fun post!
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