How to Make a Papier Mâché Mask for Kids

Papier mâché is one of the oldest, cheapest, and most versatile craft techniques in the world. Making a custom mask is the perfect activity for Halloween, a costume party, or a school project.

1. Materials Needed

• Newspaper torn into 1-inch strips (not cut, torn edges blend better).
• Flour and water for the paste.
• A balloon (to act as the mold for your face).
• Vaseline (petroleum jelly).
• Acrylic paints and decorations.

2. Preparation

Blow up the balloon until it is roughly the size of your head. Coat half of the balloon with a thin layer of Vaseline. This prevents the papier mâché from sticking permanently to the balloon when it dries.

Make the paste: Mix one part flour with two parts water in a bowl until it reaches the consistency of thin pancake batter. Stir out all the lumps.

3. The Application Process

Dip a strip of newspaper into the paste. Pull it between two fingers to squeegee off the excess liquid. Lay it flat across the Vaseline-coated side of the balloon. Smooth it down. Repeat this until you have built up three solid layers of paper. Let it dry completely (usually 24 hours).

4. Finishing the Mask

Once bone dry, pop the balloon. Carefully trim the edges of your new mask with scissors. Have an adult help you cut out eye holes. Paint it with a base coat of white acrylic paint (to hide the newsprint), and then decorate it however you want!