How to Make a Greek Mask

In order to create a Greek mask choose a dramatic facial expression that an ancient Greek actor might have worn. You want to exaggerate the expression as much as possible. Create a Greek mask for display in your home or to use when performing in a Greek drama.

Things You'll Need

• Construction paper
• Pens
• Scissors
• Crayons
• Markers
• Paper
• Paper scraps
• Glue
• Paper reinforcements

Instructions

1. Choose a partner to help make the mask. Hold one piece of construction paper up against the partner's face. Mark the position of the nose, mouth, eyes and chin. Have the paper extend at least two inches below the partner's chin.

2. Decide on a facial expression for the mask. Use regular paper to draw an example of the expression. Label it with the emotions depicted by the expressions. Draw in the eyebrows, angle of the eyes and mouth to convey the expression.

3. Transfer the drawing to the construction paper cut out. Use scissors to cut the eyes and make a wedge cut for the nose. Cut an enlarged hole for the mouth so that you can speak even while wearing the mask. Round the bottom edge of the mask and cut the remaining part to a desired shape.

4. Use crayons, markers and paper scraps to make the ears, hair and other features. Glue these on to the mask.

5. Cut two parallel slits at the chin of the mask about 1 inch apart from each other. Overlap the slits to follow the shape of the mask. Glue down the top flap of the overlap.

6. Position the mask on the face. Punch holes on either side of the mask and place reinforcements on the holes to prevent splitting. Cut two pieces of yarn eight inches in length and attach one end of each to the holes. Gather the unattached sides of the yarn and tie into a knot in back of the head so that the mask stays in place.