How to Make a Snoopy Paper Mache Mask

Here are simple ways to make a Paper Mache mask for Halloween. I did one of Snoopy but you can use the same method to make any kind of mask.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Round Balloon
• Newspaper
• Paper Mache Paste
• Plastic Wrap
• Paint
• Picture of Snoopy
• Scrap Material

1. 

   Make sure you cover your work area very well, I recommend using saran wrap on the table and put plenty of newspaper in the floor.

2. 

   Figure out how big of a mask you will need and match is with the appropriate size balloon.

3. 

   Using a cup or bowl to place the balloon on will keep it from moving around as much. Use saran wrap on the cup or bowl to make sure the Paper Mache does not stick to it.

4. 

   Tear plenty of newspaper pages into strips. You will want them 1 inch wide and about 5 - 8 inches long.

5. 

   Use your large bowl to prepare your Paper Mache Paste in. Follow the recipe I included in the tips section to make the Paste.

6. Dip the newspaper strips into the glue and spread them onto the balloon. Cover the balloon completely, don't cover the area where it is sitting in the cup or bowl. Allow the first layer to dry completely before starting the next step.

7. Before applying the second layer you need to add your facial features. I'm making Snoopy so I will make his snout and some ears. For the snout I use a long balloon and glue it to the balloon that I have started to place Mache on. For the ears I cut a piece of scrap cloth and attach to where I want the ears.

8. Start adding more layers of Paper Mache, at least 2 more layers. Make sure Mache the ears and the snout.

9. Once its dry pop the balloon and pull it out from the bottom opening.

10. Now your ready to start painting your mask. I used white and black for my snoopy mask. I first painted the hole thing white. Then added the nose, ears and eyes with black paint.

Tips & Warnings

• PAPER MACHE PASTE RECIPE:Mix one part flour with about 2 parts of water until you get a consistency like thick glue. Add more water or flour as necessary. Mix well to get out all the bumps. Add a few tablespoons of salt to help prevent mold!
• Make sure the opening is big enough to fit your head.
• Add air holes for breathing.

Resources

• Differnt types of Pastes

[arwen1964]

on 9/8/2008 Cute project...I will share this with my homeschooling group...

[mgonza12]

on 10/1/2007 Very helpful. I've been thinking about trying paper mache. I'll give it a whirl keeping your tips in mind. Thanks!