DIY Network

Papier-mâché Mask Visit DIY's Craft Lab and learn how to create a unique mask made out of paper. From "Craft Lab" episode DCLB-110

Guest Renée Parker joins host Jennifer Perkins and creates mask wall hangings out of papier-mâché.

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	Guest Renée Parker shows you how to create a papier-mâché mask.
	Figure A
	Figure B

Project designed by Renée Parker.

Materials:

non-hardening artists' clay
bamboo skewers
plastic utensils
talcum powder
white PVA glue
newspaper
scissors
masking tape
assorted grit sandpaper
assorted paintbrushes
assorted colors of acrylic paint
spray varnish
glitter, optional
rhinestones, optional
feathers, optional
string, optional

Papier-mâché Mask

1. Sculpt desired mask shape in the non-hardening clay. Use the bamboo skewers or plastic utensils (whichever you prefer) as sculpting tools to add detail.

2. Use a paintbrush to dust talcum powder over the face of the mask, making sure to get into any small spaces.

3. Mix one part water to one part PVA glue.

4. Tear newspaper into strips.

5. Dip strips into glue mixture and layer onto clay mold, smoothing the surface with your fingers as you work. You will need to layer on at least seven layers for the mask to dry hard and sturdy.

6. Allow the mask to dry in an area with some air circulation—ceiling fans or plug-in fans are a good way to speed up the drying process. Do not put the piece into microwave or conventional oven (the clay will melt!)

7. Once the mask has dried, the talcum powder will allow you to pry the hardened newspaper form from the clay mold.

8. Use the scissors to trim the edges of the mask. Use the masking tape to mend any tears that occur in the edges when removing the mask from the mold.

9. Finish the edges of the mask with another two layers of papier mâché (figure A).

10. Once this has dried, use medium grit sandpaper to sand away any bumps/kinks.

11. Finish with fine grit sandpaper.

12. Poke holes in the sides of the mask. Prime the mask with white acrylic paint.

13. Paint mask with desired colors/design. Do something unique and creative (figure B).

14. Spray with protective varnish of your choice, matte or glossy.

15. Thread string through the holes and knot.

16. Add glitter/rhinestones/feathers. Consider other embellishments to accent your project.

Tips:

• Vary the size of the newspaper strips. Use skinnier strips for smaller areas/details and larger ones to cover larger areas.

• Sketch designs onto the mask first as a guideline if you wish, then paint.

RESOURCES :

The Papier Mache Workbook
Renée Parker
Reneezance Art
Website: www.reneezanceart.com

GUESTS :

Renée Parker
Reneezance Art
Website: www.reneezanceart.com