Feathers and sequins help give your Mardi Gras mask a dramatic flair.
The annual celebration of Mardi Gras has become synonymous with bright and colorful costumes and, most notably, Mardi Gras masks. This colorful facewear can be made to suit any personality and often includes decorative elements such as glitter, intricate painting and feathers. Whether you are attending a Mardi Gras parade or celebration or are looking for a fun and easy theme for your own party, making your own Mardi Gras mask is an easy and fun way to achieve this festive look.
Instructions
1. Purchase a prefabricated mask in a neutral color and in the shape of your choosing. These should be available individually and in bulk at your local crafts store or online. If you are up for a more challenging craft task, you can make the mask by sketching out a design on craft foam or cardboard, or even by fabricating the mask out of papier-mache.
2. Map out a plan for the final product that you hope to achieve with this craft project and make a list of all of the decorative items you will need to accomplish the task. You should also look through items you already have such as buttons, scrap fabrics and gems that have fallen off clothing or jewelry.
3. Paint the mask with bright colors such as purple, green and gold, all which, according to the website MardiGrasNewOrleans, have been historically associated with the holiday and represent justice, faith and power. You can opt for a solid mask and add decorative elements later, or you can paint designs onto the mask itself. Consider creating a pattern over the entire mask such as a multi-colored diamond pattern, or choose one item to paint, such as a fleur de lis, an image often associated with New Orleans and Mardi Gras.
4. Add stylistic elements such as colorful glitter, sequins or faux gemstones to the mask to add texture, color and flair. Stick with vibrant colors in the jewel-tone family to truly embrace the spirit of Mardi Gras.
5. Give your Mardi Gras mask an extra-dramatic look by adorning the top with colorful feathers. This will create a peacock look that will add flair to your Mardi Gras outfit.
6. Add a small but sturdy stick to one side of the mask--secured by hot glue--or attach colorful ribbons to each side of the back of the mask to allow you to hold or fasten the mask to your face. It is important to consider what type of event you are attending and which method will keep the mask in place and away from harm. You should also take into consideration the weight of the mask and ensure that you have taken the proper precautions to glue your fastening device on sufficiently.
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