Make an authentic-looking African mask using papier mâché and raffia! This project also has an instructional video available!

Steps

• Step 1
  With craft knife, cut eye, mouth and nostril holes from the mask.
• Step 2
  Mix a small batch of Claycrete according to the directions on the package. Use modeling tools to build up and sculpt Claycrete details onto mask. Allow it to dry thoroughly.
• Step 3
  Paint mask with acrylic paints.
• Step 4
  To add raffia headdress, hair or beard, etc., punch holes in desired areas with an awl or ceramic needle tool. Select a strand of raffia, coat the end with a small amount of glue and twist to make threading the raffia easier (allow glue to dry). Next, sew the raffia in and out of the punched holes. Continue until all holes are used.
• Step 5
  Trim raffia to desired lengths. Separate, fluff or shred raffia to create different, unique textures. Add beads to raffia, if desired.
• Optional Tip 1
  To create ears or horns, add wire, form it and then wrap with raffia.

Products Used

• African Masks Project Kit (USCPK7)
• AMACO Claycrete Papier Mache
• Creativity Street Paperboard Mask
• Kemper Pro Tool
• Modeling Tools
• Super Moss Raffia