3 of 3

Write now Article Tools

Paper Mache Masks

Creating paper mache projects with children is not for the faint of heart! Yet despite the slops and spills and sticky fingers, the end product is often worth it. Paper mache lends itself easily to creativity and individuality, giving your young artist a chance to really shine, and the end result is usually more durable and long-lasting than other crafts. This is an especially good project for spring break as it will span about three days.

Ready to get started?

What You'll Need:

*Strips of newspaper OR a couple rolls of toilet paper
*White school glue
*Large paintbrushes
*Balloons
*Tempera or craft paints
*Glitter, sequins, or other finishing touches
*Newspaper for surfaces and smocks the kids

How To Do It:

Thankfully, there is an alternative to having your child's face covered in glue with paintbrushes dangerously close to their eyes! This is where the balloons come in.

*Blow up a balloon until it is the same size as the child's head.

*With a marker, draw an oval shape on the balloon that is the approximate size and shape of the child's face. This will be their guide as they begin to apply the paper mache.

*Begin applying the stripes of newspaper or toilet paper to the balloon, being generous with the glue. This should cover the entire oval, with the exception of holes for eyes, if desired. Allow this to dry.

*Twist and bend strips of newspaper to create eyebrows, cheekbones, a nose, and lips. Tape these to the mask.

*Cover the entire mask with another layer of paper mache and allow to dry.

*Pop the balloon and peel it away from the mask. Trim any rough edges.

*Decorate! Now is the time for paint and embellishments. Perhaps a plain coat of gold paint, to look like an Egyptian Pharaoh, or perhaps a pretty color with sequins around the eyes.

*Enjoy! Finished masks can be displayed on the wall, or used by attaching doweling to the bottom so they can be held over the face.

Final Tip: An inexpensive alternative to white glue is to make your own out of flour and water. Simply mix together, slowly adding flour until the mixture is pastey. Be sure to rinse out paintbrushes thoroughly-this dries very hard!

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

Add your voice

Know something about Easy kid crafts projects: Making paper mache masks?
We want to hear your view. Write now!