How to Make a Plaster Mold for a Mask
Making masks is a great activity for kids particularly if the mask is of their own face. Using plaster gauze to make a replica of their face is quick and easy, even though it does tend to get a little messy. Clean up requires simple soap and water and the mask hardens within 24 hours. Young children love to paint or decorate the mask and then try it on to see if it really fits.
Things You'll Need
- 1 roll plaster gauze
- Smock/protective clothing
- Plastic wrap
- Warm water
- Acrylic paints
Instructions
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1
Brush hair away from the face and secure with pins. Place a smock or protective clothing on the child and seat them in a chair facing you. Lay a sheet of plastic wrap over the face being sure to cut holes for breathing.
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2
Cut the plaster gauze into 4 to 6-inch sections. Dip a section into tepid water to soften. Smooth away excess plaster with your finger and apply to the face over the plastic wrap. Continue to add strips until the entire face is covered with one layer. Use care not to cover the nostrils and mouth opening. Wet your fingers and smooth any rough or wrinkled areas.
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3
Add a second layer of plaster gauze following the same procedure. You can add as many layers as you wish. Some children may become to restless to wait for more layers to be applied, but most can remain calm for two layers. Smooth any rough edges. Allow it to dry for 5 to 10 minutes. The plaster will begin to lighten and the surface will stiffen.
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4
Gently remove the plaster form the face by lifting on the edges of the plastic wrap. Place it on newspapers to complete the drying process. Crumple several sheets of newspaper to create a ball for the mask to rest on and to maintain its shape while drying.
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5
Touch up the nose and mouth by adding strips of wetted gauze. Smooth in place and allow it to dry for 24 hours.
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6
Paint with acrylic paints once the mask is completely dry. Trim the edges with a pair of scissors and smooth with wetted fingers if necessary.
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Tips & Warnings
Exercise caution with extremely young children and always provide an open airway for breathing.
