How to Make an Afican Mask Out of Paper Plates

Find an African mask to use as a model for your paper-plate mask.

One of the most recognizable forms of African art is the mask. The continent has a past that dates back to the beginnings of recorded time, and the variety of masks found there is as rich as its history. African masks have been made for centuries, and the tradition continues in tribes today. If you are teaching your class about Africa or looking for an enjoyable craft project for your child, making a mask from a paper plate is an easy project.

Things You'll Need

• Plate
• Scissors
• Glue
• Tempera paint
• Standard-size paintbrush
• Small paintbrush
• Other embellishment materials

Instructions

1. Find pictures of African masks to serve as inspiration for the craft project. Try pictures on the Internet or in library books.

2. Cut the plate into the basic shape of your inspiration mask.

3. Cut slits to form the eyes.

4. Twist strips of newspaper to form the shape of the nose. The strips can be small or large, depending on the size of nose on your inspiration mask. Use this technique for all shapes of noses; it adds dimension to your mask. Glue on the nose.

5. Form the shape of the mouth using the same technique of twisting strips of newspaper. Glue it on.

6. Allow the glue to dry.

7. Paint the base color of your mask, using your model to determine the color. Let the paint dry.

8. Using the small paintbrush, add embellishments and details.

9. Add hair to your mask, if desired. Use raffia, pipe cleaners, dried grass, yarn or any other material that resembles what your inspiration mask looks like.

Tips & Warnings

• It may be helpful to lightly trace the outlines of the mask shape, eyes, nose and mouth on the plate before cutting them out/adding them.

References

• First Palette: African Paper Plate Mask

Resources

• Arty Factory: Mask Styles
• African Art Museum