Omar Khalid
Creating a paper mache mask is a fun and creative project that can be done in various ways. One common method is to use a base form, such as a balloon, clay model, or wire mesh, and cover it with paper mache strips or paper towels dipped in a papier-mache mixture. Details can be added using paper mache clay, and a smooth finish can be achieved with compounds like Flexbond or gesso. Painting and decorating the mask allows for further customisation. When creating a paper mache mask over a plastic mask, special considerations should be made to ensure the paper mache can be easily removed without damaging the original mask.
Characteristics and Values Table for Paper Mache on a Plastic Mask:
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Base Material | Cardboard, Clay, Wire Mesh, Balloon, or Existing Plastic Mask |
| Base Preparation | Measure face, cut cardboard to shape, add crumpled paper/newspaper and masking tape |
| Paper Mache Mixture | Paper strips and paste, paper towels with glue and plaster, or toilet paper |
| Application | Dip paper in mixture and apply, or use paper towels/toilet paper directly |
| Layers | At least 2-8 layers of paper/paper towel, depending on technique and desired strength |
| Details | Use paper mache clay or paper to add details like bumps for nose and eyes |
| Smoothing | Gesso or Flexbond for a smooth finish before painting |
| Painting | Acrylic paints or other desired paints |
| Finishing | Cut slits and add elastic for wearing |
| Removal from Base | Paper mache usually pops off plastic masks when dry |
| Protection | Petroleum jelly or Saran wrap to protect the original mask |
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What You'll Learn
Creating a base for the mask
Creating a base for a paper mache mask can be done in several ways, depending on the shape and form you want to achieve. Here is a step-by-step guide to creating a base for your mask:
Planning and Measuring
First, take some basic measurements of the face the mask is being created for. Measure from the top of the forehead to the chin, and then measure down to the eyes, marking a perpendicular line. Note the position of the bottom of the nose, the distance between the eyes, and the distance from ear to ear. Draw a 'T' shape with these measurements and use it as a guide to sketch the outline of your mask, considering the shape in relation to the wearer's face.
Creating the Form
There are various methods to create the form or structure of your mask, which will be covered in paper mache strips. One option is to use a sculpting mesh or wire mesh, which is sold at art supply stores in various densities. This mesh is formable and stretchable, making it ideal for shaping the mask. Choose a mesh with smaller holes, as they are easier to cover. Another method is to use cardboard as the base, cutting it into the basic shape you desire, and then adding crumpled newspaper or paper and securing it with masking tape. You can also use a balloon as your base, inflating it and layering paper mache over it, cutting away the excess.
Adding Details
Once you have the basic form, you can start to add details to create the features of the mask. For example, you can form eye sockets, a nose, and lips using paper and tape. You can also add paper clay or paper strips to build up certain areas and create a more detailed base. If you are using cardboard, cover the entire form with masking tape, as paper mache may not stick to it effectively.
Smoothing and Finishing
Before applying paper mache, you may want to consider using a smoothing compound like gesso or Flexbond to create an even surface. These compounds can be sanded after they dry for an ultra-smooth finish. You can also apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or mineral oil to the base before adding paper mache to ensure the paper mache doesn't stick too firmly and can be removed easily.
Applying Paper Mache
Once your base is complete and you are happy with the shape, you can start to apply paper mache strips. Dip the strips into a mixture of glue, plaster of Paris, and vinegar, and then lay them over your mask form. Smooth out any wrinkles and add details by layering paper or paper clay. Allow the mask to dry thoroughly before removing it from the form.
Remember, creating a paper mache mask is a creative process, and you can adapt and modify these steps to suit your specific design and requirements.
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Covering the base with paper mache
To cover the base with paper mache, you can use paper mache strips or paper mache clay.
If you are using paper mache strips, you can dip the strips into a mixture of glue, plaster of Paris, and vinegar, and then place them over your mask form. You can also use paper and paste, applying at least two layers of newsprint. You can also use a paper towel, which is soft and durable, and tear it into strips before dipping it into the mixture.
If you are using paper mache clay, you can simply stick pieces of clay onto the dry paper mask and smooth the edges to blend them together. Paper mache clay is a cheap sculpting material that can be purchased pre-made or made at home.
Before painting your mask, you can apply a smoothing compound like gesso or Flexbond to create an even smoother finish. Flexbond is similar to wood glue and can be wet-sanded after it dries. Gesso sands more easily and is a better option if you want a very smooth finish. You can dilute the Flexbond with water and apply it in an even layer with a medium-sized brush. Once the first layer has dried, add a second coat.
You can also use a balloon as a base and then layer the paper mache over it. If you are using a plastic mask as your base, you can apply petroleum jelly or Saran wrap to prevent the paper mache from sticking to it. Paper mache does not stick well to plastic when it is dry, so you should be able to pop it off without damaging the original mask.
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Adding details with paper mache clay
Once your paper mache mask base has dried thoroughly, you can use paper mache clay to add details to it. Paper mache clay is a cheap sculpting material that can be purchased pre-made or made at home. It can be sculpted and formed to create any shape, making it ideal for adding details to your mask.
To add details with paper mache clay, start by taking small pieces of the clay and sticking them onto the dry paper mache mask base. Smooth the edges of the clay into the paper to blend it and ensure a good grip. If the clay seems dry and is not sticking well, rub a little water on the surface of the clay that you are attaching to the mask. You can also wet the surface of the clay slightly and rub it with your fingers to help smooth it out. Additionally, you can use sculpting tools or stamps to create texture and add more intricate details. For instance, you can use clay to add facial details to a mask to make it look more dragon-like.
If you are using store-bought paper clay, you can sand it to smooth and shape it once it has fully dried. Covering the whole mask with a thin layer of clay will allow you to create an especially smooth surface when combined with sanding. However, keep in mind that the more clay you add, the heavier the mask will become.
Before painting your mask, apply a smoothing compound like gesso or Flexbond to create an even smoother finish. Flexbond can be diluted with water and applied with a medium-sized brush. After it dries, add a second coat. Then, mix your paints to achieve your desired colour and apply enough coats to cover the details of the newspaper and clay. If using a light or bright colour, prime your mask with white paint or primer first. To create blended or shaded effects, mix a lighter colour and apply it over the base coat, blending the two at the edges. Finally, add some string or elastic so you can wear your mask or hang it on a wall for display.
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Smoothing the surface with gesso or Flexbond
Smoothing compounds are a great way to create a smooth finish on your paper mache mask before painting it. Gesso and Flexbond are two popular options for achieving this.
Gesso is a smoothing compound that can be used to create an extremely smooth surface on your paper mache mask. It sands very easily, making it a good choice if you are working with a base that cannot be sanded. Gesso is also very durable, as seen in a test where a Gesso-coated bracelet was only chipped in one tiny spot after being hit with a hammer. However, it may not be the best option for complex curves or if you need a quick smoothing solution, as it can crack if flexed too much.
Flexbond is another effective smoothing compound that provides a smooth, flexible, and durable finish. It has a high surface tension, which helps to minimise drips and runs when applied in thin layers. Flexbond dries quickly and clear, and is non-toxic. It is also water-soluble, making it easy to fix any mistakes. Flexbond requires fewer coats compared to other compounds and is very resistant to damage.
Both Gesso and Flexbond can be applied in multiple coats to achieve the desired smoothness. When using Flexbond, dilute it with a small amount of water and use a medium-sized brush to apply an even layer all over the mask. Allow the first layer to dry for about an hour or two before adding a second coat.
The choice between Gesso and Flexbond depends on your specific needs and preferences. Gesso is ideal for achieving an extremely smooth surface, especially for a high-shine finish, while Flexbond is a more flexible, durable, and quicker option that requires fewer coats.
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Painting and decorating the mask
Once your paper mache mask is dry, you can start painting and decorating it. Here are some tips to help you through the process:
Smoothing the Surface
Before you start painting, you might want to smooth out the texture of your mask to achieve a smooth finish. Smoothing compounds like gesso and Flexbond can be used to create a smooth base. Gesso is easier to sand and is a good choice if you are working on a base that cannot be sanded. Flexbond, on the other hand, is similar to wood glue and can be wet-sanded for an even smoother finish. You can dilute the compound with water and apply it evenly with a medium-sized brush. Let it dry for an hour or two, and then add a second coat.
Priming the Mask
To prepare your mask for painting, you can apply a coat of primer such as gesso spray or acrylic gesso. Gesso spray is faster and more convenient, especially if you are working indoors. Priming your mask will help smooth out the texture, conceal torn paper edges, and provide a nice bright base for your paint. Let the primer dry thoroughly before proceeding to the next step.
Painting the Mask
Now, you can start painting your mask. You can use acrylic craft paint, oils, or any other medium of your choice. If you want to paint the interior of the mask, you can use spray paint to ensure complete coverage. This will make your mask look good from all angles, whether it is being worn or displayed. Remember to work in short painting sessions to prolong the life of your brushes. Use water-based paints and clean your brushes thoroughly after each session.
Sealant and Display
Once you have finished painting your mask, you can apply a sealant such as an acrylic medium or shellac for extra protection, especially if the mask will be used frequently or displayed outdoors. Finally, add some string or elastic to wear your mask or hang it on a wall. You can drill holes on each side of the mask and thread the string or elastic through them.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need paper mache strips, paper mache clay, a smoothing compound like gesso or Flexbond, paint, paste, wire mesh, and a plastic mask.
First, take measurements of the face the mask is being moulded to. Use these measurements to cut out a piece of cardboard in the basic shape of the face. Add crumpled newspaper and masking tape to the cardboard to create the underlying base for the mask. Once the base is complete, cover it with paper mache strips and paste. After the paper mache dries, use paper mache clay to add details to the mask. Smooth the surface of the mask with a compound like gesso or Flexbond and paint it.
Paper mache does not stick well to plastic when it is dry, so it can usually be popped off without damaging the plastic mask. To ensure the paper mache does not stick, you can apply a thin coating of petroleum jelly or mineral oil to the plastic mask before applying the paper mache.
