Make Your Own Masquerade Mask

If you need ideas on how to make your own masquerade mask, there is plenty of inspiration that makes this craft idea both frugal and fun. Whether you're seeking creative plans for Halloween, a Masquerade ball, or for Mardi Gras masks to make, the ideas are endless!

Masquerade Mask Pictures

If you plan on attending a masquerade ball, you'll need a mask that will keep your identity a mystery, which is all part of the fun!

Masquerade masks can be purchased at mass party stores or through specialty Internet retailers who specialize in the ancient craft of paper Mache mask making. Italian Venetian masks are quite expensive, yet the intricacy and workmanship of each piece is lavish and ornate. If you would rather wear a mask that is filled with decorative artwork rather than a run of the mill pre-made costume mask, you may decide to make your own masquerade mask.

Making a masquerade mask is easy, and allows you to put your creativity to good use. If you plan on attending a masquerade event with several friends, why not host a mask making party prior to the event? The following basic supplies will ensure everyone has enough options to make a unique mask that fits their personality.

• Plain white masks (available at party stores)
• Assorted feathers
• 12" dowel rods
• Paint
• Glitter
• Sequins
• Craft glue

Once you've gathered all of the supplies, you're ready to get started with simple Mardi Gras masks to make at home. First, you'll need to decide on a design for your mask. Mardi Gras and masquerade masks are very vivid and artistic, so let your inner muse take over! Pick a base color for your mask and paint. Allow the paint to dry thoroughly prior to decorating the mask with notions such as feathers or sequins. Female masks tend to have short feathers on the side of the masks with long feather in the middle, while male masks generally have short feathers flocking the entire mask. Follow these simple instructions to create your very own masquerade mask:

1. Decide on mask theme and base colors
2. Paint mask with acrylic craft paint in one base color
3. Allow paint to dry
4. Add additional painted details in alternating colors, such as whiskers, swirls, harlequin patterns or butterfly wings
5. Paint wooden dowel rod the same color as the base color of the mask
6. Glue dowel rod to the back right side of the mask next to the right eye cutout
7. Affix decorative details such as sequins and feathers
8. Add finishing details with glitter glue for a spectacular effect

The primary difference between masquerade and Mardi Gras masks is that masquerade masks are often handheld with the wooden dowel rod. Party store retailers that sell plain masks always offer the elastic variety. If you strike out finding an elastic band mask, simply punch holes in a standard mask and affix ribbons with a simple knot. The ribbons can then be tied to the back of the head to ensure a custom fit. To make a beautiful Mardi Gras mask, follow the simple instructions above and decorate as desired.

By making your own masquerade or Mardi Gras mask rather than purchasing a store bought design, you'll ensure your mask will be one of a kind. Decorating masks is a great way to save money yet have a custom look that may be out of reach if you went the conventional method of purchasing an artist designed piece. In addition to saving money, you'll learn a new skill that will come in handy for future costume and dress up events.

In addition to a festive holiday or fancy ball, why not gather the family for a night of fun or to chase away a rainy day? Print out simple invitations and invite your children and their friends to the kitchen table and let them tap their own creativity while designing their very own decorative mask. Children love making costumes, and a mask is an affordable craft that they can wear on many occasions!

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