by Ricky Fingerz

Created on: August 20, 2010   Last Updated: February 04, 2011

Alien Paper Mache Halloween Mask

Making an alien mask is easy and because the theme is alien, the imagination is boundless. This is for ages 9 and up. Some supervision may be required.

This is not a one day project. The time involved to complete your mask will depend on you but all must be done in steps making this a creation in the works as you go. There will be drying times when you can sit back and reflect upon your next idea to evolve.

For this alien paper mache project you will need the following items

newspaper
flour
foam bicycle helmet
masking tape
1 pair of alien eyed sunglasses or other
plaster or putty wood filler
spray paint
modeling tools

Optional: LED battery light and fan.

I was fortunate enough to find a pair of lizard looking glasses at a dollar store and the bike helmet had straps to hold the mask in place.

Take the newspaper and cut into two inch wide strips. You will use plenty. Next, in a large pail or bowl, mix flour and water to the consistency of thick soup.

Attached the sunglasses to the foam helmet with tape or any way you find easiest.Roll up large balls of paper to expand the top of the head and tape into place. Aliens I've seen tend to have large green heads so this is what I did

Dip the strip of paper into the flour water mixture. Squeeze off the excess paste and begin forming over the entire head. Repeat this process until you have completely covered the top of the head.

Next, take smaller paper pieces and form them around the glasses. Add ears if you wish.

At this point, it's drying time which will usually take twenty four hours. A full flour bag itself makes for a great stand for your mask to dry.

Now you have something to begin working on as you form the rest of the face, nose, mouth, chin, etc with a skeleton of masking tape. It does not have to look pretty at this point so don't dismay and carry on.

Now again take pasted strips of paper a begin forming the rest of the face. Let dry overnight once again. This process may take many times until you're satisfied.

Now that your mask has hardened, reach up inside and pull out all the paper balls and you're left with a hollow head.

Now you can use putty , modeling clay, plaster, or filler to create your face. Let dry and sand.

Cover the lenses with tape and spray your mask. Touch up with a brush and other colors. Add hair or anything else your mind may conceive.

The one I created has a battery led light that shines out of my forehead lighting my way in the dark and a fan inside to keep me cool.

Use your imagination, have fun, travel in groups and stay safe

Learn more about this author, Ricky Fingerz.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.