How to Create an African Mask

There are many different cultures in Africa that create masks as a tool for use in spiritual or tribal ceremonies. While the appearance of these masks may vary from region to region, they are typically very colorful, and facial features are often pronounced and exaggerated. To recreate an African mask at home using craft supplies, it is important to follow a few steps to ensure that your mask resembles one from an African nation.

Things You'll Need

  • 2 cups flour
  • 1 cup water
  • Bowl
  • Pot
  • Newspaper
  • Scissors
  • Large balloon
  • Pin
  • Tempera paint
  • Paintbrush
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Instructions

    • 1

      Combine the flour and water in a pot.

    • 2

      Heat the mixture until it starts to boil, then remove from heat.

    • 3

      Allow the mixture to cool down.

    • 4

      Blow up a large balloon and tie the end tightly.

    • 5

      Cut up pieces of newspaper. Although you can cut the pieces into any size you wish, it may be easiest to cut them into 2 inch by 6 inch pieces.

    • 6

      Soak the pieces of newspaper into the flour paste one at a time, then smooth them onto one half of the balloon.

    • 7

      Continue to add flour paste-soaked newspaper pieces onto the balloon until half of it has been covered with at least six layers.

    • 8

      Let the balloon dry completely. This can take up to six hours.

    • 9

      Pop the balloon with a straight pin. Remove the deflated balloon.

    • 10

      Use scissors to cut out eye, nose and mouth holes. Discard the cut out pieces.

    • 11

      Paint the outside of the mask with tempera paint. Allow the paint to dry completely before displaying the mask.

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