How to Harden a Fabric Mask

Masks can be used for costuming or decoration. You might want one for a Halloween costume, a masquerade party or a Mardi Gras event. Mask-making can also be a fun and easy art project for children and adults, and you can make it as simple or as complicated as you want. One common type of mask is a simple half face mask. It can be attached to your face with an elastic band or attached to a stick that you hold up to your face. The base is usually papier mache, plastic or fabric. If you use a fabric base for your mask, you will need to harden it.

Things You'll Need

• Plastic gloves
• Fabric stiffener
• Bowl
• Fabric mask
• Styrofoam wig stand
• Straight pins
• Fabric glue
• Mask decorations

Instructions

1. Put on the gloves.

2. Pour the fabric stiffener into the bowl.

3. Place the mask in the bowl.

4. Work the fabric stiffener into your mask until it is completely soaked.

5. Remove the mask from the bowl and wring out the excess fabric stiffener.

6. Place the mask over the face of the wig stand and mold it into the shape you want.

7. Use the straight pins to attach the mask to the stand.

8. When the fabric stiffener dries, remove the mask from the stand and decorate it. You can use fabric glue to attach sequins, feathers, additional scraps of fabric or whatever you want.

References

• How to Use Aleen's Fabric Stiffener and Draping Liquid, ILoveToCreate.com
• Decorative Wall Mask, Susan Whitlock

Resources

• Mask Making, UpstageReview.org