TRADITIONAL MASK MAKING

Creating a traditional Indian mask using paper clay is a wonderful project! Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you:

1. Paper clay
2. newspaper
3. tape
4. Rolling pin
5. Mask mold or a balloon (optional, for shaping)
6. Sculpting tools (spatula, knives, etc.)
7. Water
8. Acrylic paints or any other paints of your choice
9. Brushes
10. Primer
11. waste cloth
12. Stiff cardboard

1. Set up your workspace: Cover your workspace with a plastic sheet or newspaper to keep it clean.
2. Gatther Materials: Make sure you have all your materials ready and within reach.

On a sheet of paper, draw a rough sketch of the mask shape, including all of its characteristics. Even include all of the details to give you an idea of what your finished product will look like. As an alternative, you can even take any reference image from the internet.

1.Take 3-4 newspapers and crumple them up tightly to form an ellipsoid shape that will serve as the base for your mask.

2. Wrap the crumpled newspapers with tape to the table for holding the shape together and provide a smooth surface for the clay.

Choose a large amount of clay and roll it into a ball. Then, flatten it to the desired form. Make sure the layer of clay is approximately 5 mm thick.

Drape the rolled-out clay over the gauze-covered base. Smooth it out and shape it to fit the base.

Use additional clay to sculpt facial features like the nose, lips, and eyebrows. Attach these pieces to the mask base by scoring the clay where it will attach, adding a bit of water, and pressing it firmly into place.

Now ,Smooth and refine the shape. For this,use sculpting tools and add any patterns or textures to give your mask a traditional look.

Let the mask dry completely. This may take several hours to a day, depending on the thickness of the clay. Ensure it dries in a well-ventilated area.Once dry, carefully remove the mask from the newspaper base.

Apply a base coat of white acrylic paint to prime the mask. Let it dry completely.

Paint the mask with traditional colors and patterns. Use reference images of traditional Indian masks to guide your design.You can even add fine details and highlights to bring out the facial features and patterns.

If desired, apply a clear varnish to protect the paint and give the mask a glossy finish. Let it dry completely.

create a vertical support using a stiff cardboard which would help it to stand still. And now display the final product on the stand.

Display the mask on the stand and enjoy your traditional Indian mask 🎭.Do not forget to photograph and save those images.