How to Buy a Leather Mask
Masquerades, or masked balls, are enjoying a revival right now. Some wedding planners are even adding masked ceremonies and receptions to their repertoire. Leather masks in particular are becoming more and more popular because of their durability and the fact that they are generally more comfortable than the traditional papier mache models. Leather also survives the elements better, so whether you have been invited to a masked event or are merely planning on buying a mask to hang on your wall, leather is always a good choice. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Choose a handmade mask. These will obviously carry a larger price tag than the machine-made variety, but they are usually constructed of much higher quality materials, and are generally more comfortable to wear.
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Determine whether your mask is suitable to wear or if it is purely decorative. Some masks are made to hang on the wall, so if you plan on wearing your leather mask, be sure it has been made for this purpose, or you may ruin it.
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Find out what kind of tanning process has been used. Some people are sensitive to the chemicals used in tanning. If you have sensitive skin, you may wish to choose only those masks that have been vegetable-tanned, a gentler process that tends to produce a more flexible leather.
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Try your mask on. Everyone's face is different, and you'll want to make sure the mask fits properly, especially if it is a handmade piece.
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Ask if the mask has been sealed. If it hasn't, the leather will be easily bruised or marked by the oils on your face and hands, and by fingernails and other items that may bump into it.
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Decide whether you would prefer your mask to attach with elastic, a satin ribbon or with a cap, or if you will simply hold it in front of your face with a stick.
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Tips & Warnings
Store your leather mask either on a wig dummy or with balled-up paper supporting the natural arc of the face.
Do not use fabric protector or any other harsh chemical sealant on your mask. Ask the artist who made the mask to suggest a safe sealant.
