Making A Masquerade Mask
Masquerade balls are a popular theme loved for their mystery. The masquerade mask is the associated fashion accessory to these balls. However, these masks are not reserved for balls or carnivals solely. No, they can be worn at various social gatherings with various types of party outfits.
The masquerade mask is available in different materials and may be found in a plethora of colours. It also supports various types of decorations including feathers, sequins, and jewellery of different sizes. The mask is held in place either by hand using an attached stick or by fastening a length of string behind the head. While masks are available to purchase at various locations, many individuals wish to retain originality by creating their own masks.
Detail the concept
While the theme is “masquerade”, one should detail the concept. There are certain questions one should ask before embarking on this creative mission. The answers to these questions will affect both the colour and fabric you will be using.
– Would you prefer a mask with more masculine or feminine features?
– Would you prefer an attractive mask or something more grotesque?
– Would you like a dramatic or subdued mask?
If you are aiming for a fashionable mask it is recommended you work with obscure colours. Try creating a mask from patterned fabrics such as tartan. It is important you always consider the outfit you are wearing, the event you are attending, and the statement you wish to make before producing your mask.
Producing the mask
The materials you choose should be a reflection of your concept. They should also be conducive to practical aspects such as one’s budget and the time you have to invest in this project. As a means of time- and money-saving it is recommended one create a strong and simple mask. A single coloured mask can be as bold as one with a plethora of colours. By tying the mask with a unique or contrasting colour ribbon one will add a degree of elegance to the mask.
To create the mask you will require a base, scissors, glue, a hole punch (for the eye holes), and materials which will be used as decorations. These can be feathers or sequins and will be attached using glue. There are two options to create a mask base. The first is a plaster mask and the other a fabric mask.
The custom-fit plaster mask is more time-consuming, requires more planning, and is more expensive as one requires more materials. If you choose to use this method you will be required to create a plaster cast of your face and thus will need certain materials to accomplish this. These materials include: a shower cap, Vaseline, sanding paper, cast plaster, paints and primers.
The second and simpler method is using a fabric base. To create this you need to measure the distance between your eyes and around your head. Draw this template onto a piece of fabric and leave an area for the bridge of your nose. After cutting the template out you should choose how you would like to tie it on.
