How to Make a Ceramic Clay Mask

Easily creat clay masks by following a few guidelines.

You can create ceramic masks in a multitude of ways, and customized to resemble a person’s face, a famous mythological or historical figure, an animal or a fantastical creature. Making clay masks can be a great creative outlet, as each mask is as unique as its creator is. To successfully create a clay mask, it is important to follow a few guidelines that will ensure that the mask will meet your design expectations.

Things You'll Need

• 1 lb. terra cotta clay
• Rolling pin
• 12 inch styrofoam ball
• Clay knife
• Ceramics glaze
• Paintbrush
• Kiln

Instructions

1. Knead 1 lb. of terra cotta clay for five minutes to remove any trapped air bubbles.

2. Roll out 3/4 of the clay using a rolling pin into an 18-inch squares. Set the remaining clay aside.

3. Drape the clay square over a 12-inch styrofoam ball. You can find a styrofoam ball at any craft store or florists shop.

4. Use a clay knife to cut out eye holes.

5. Use the remaining clay to add a nose, mouth or any other shapes onto the mask.

6. Use a pencil to poke a hole into the top of the mask so that you can hang it up after it is finished.

7. Allow the mask to air dry completely.

8. Paint the mask with ceramics glaze.

9. Allow the glaze to dry completely.

10. Fire the mask in a kiln before hanging it up for display.

References

• Cartage: Terra Cotta Mask History
• Indian Child: Mask Making