Making Your Own Masquerade Mask for Halloween
Making Your Own Mask for a Halloween Masquerade Party
Masks of some sort can be found all over the world. Some have a cultural significance while others are used for pure decoration. I've always been fascinated with masquerade masks since I visited Venice many years ago. I remember going into a store and seeing all these gorgeously decorated masks and wondering what they were used for.
Earlier last week I went to the hobby store and found a plain white mask on sale. I immediately thought of all the beads I have lying around in a box at home and thought how cool it might be to make my own jeweled masquerade mask for Halloween this year.
This is such a fun and easy project to do I don't know why I didn't do it last year. All it takes are a few materials, a dusting of creativity and a sense of fun!
*All photos taken by myself
Before We Start...
Have you ever made a masquerade mask before?
The Materials You'll Need
Let's Get Started!
Doing this project only took me about 3 hours although you do have to let it dry for at least 4. So, are you ready to create your one-of-a-kind piece of art? Let's make sure you have the right materials first. The mask should be lightweight with holes in them for strings. Some already come with strings attached.
Come up with a color theme and choose your beads. Get yourself a small container of paint in your desired color. Make sure you get the strong glue that is appropriate for the materials you are using.
Materials
Materials :
1. Pre-made mask
2. Assorted beads
3. Paint
4. Glue
5. Paintbrush
I would make sure to have everything all set and ready to go. Put the beads in a container and lay down some paper towels or newspapers to protect surfaces from the paint and glue.
If you have pets in the house, make sure you don't accidentally drop those tiny beads on the floor like I did. Fortunately, my dog hates the taste of beads and immediately spit it out.
What's Your Color?
What is your favorite color combination?
Choosing Your Beads
You can choose from a wide range of beads in a variety of colors. The selection available is incredible and the process of looking for those perfect beads can be a lot of fun.
For my mask today, I decided to use a combination of Czech fire polish glass beads, freshwater faux pearls and some gold spherical beads. I also like to use a variety of sizes and shapes for added texture and variety.
Painting the Mask
Start Painting
The first thing you need to do is to paint your mask. You can paint the mask in any color of your choosing. I decided on using an acrylic gold paint to complement my choice of beads, which were in various shades of blues, fresh water faux pearls and some gold spheres.
I gave my mask three coats of paint for extra luster. Make sure the paint is completely dry before going on to the next step.
Craft Projects
Do you like making things with your hands like craftwork?
Decorate with Choice of Beads
Once your paint is dry, carefully decorate the mask with your beads. This is where creativity comes in so don't hold back! You can make it simple and sophisticated or as extravagant as you want!
Make sure to apply the glue a little at a time as it dries pretty quickly. I like to use a tweezer to place my beads in place as it makes for less sticky fingers. I promise you this is the fun part.
Use The Right Glue
Make sure you use the right glue or adhesive. Some glues are made to be used with paper and others for plastic. Make sure you're getting the right one for your materials. Also some glues turn yellow when dry so make sure yours dries clear.
The Finishing Touch
Once the beads are in place, let the glue dry making sure there are no loose beads. If you're satisfied with how it looks, that's it. You are finished!
Of course if you want, you can take it further and add even more drama with a feather or two. You could probably add more beads, but be careful not to add too much as your mask might become too heavy for comfort.
No matter what your style, remember to have fun with it. Have a happy and safe Halloween!
DIY Masquerade Mask From Scratch
Cooking For Halloween?
Why not make something special for Halloween night with these truly spooktacular recipes!