Learn the history behind masks and how to create an inexpensive mask base

1. Paper Mache Masks Lesson Plan by Noreen Strehlow AZ State Theatre Standards: 1AT-E2. PO 1. 1AT-E3. PO 2. 1AT-E4. PO 2. 1AT-E5. PO 1. PO 2. PO 3 1AT-E6. PO 4.

4. http:// www.artoncairncross.com.au/michael / http://www.theater-masks.com/teaching.html http:// www.themaskstore.com/italian.htm

6. Another example of crushed up paper, covered with a smooth sheet of paper and taped in the back.

7. Another example of crushed up paper, covered with a plastic bag.

8. Use narrow short strips to overlap and create an edge for the mask. Make sure you overlap at least half the length of the strip. Overlap short narrow strips in order to divide the piece into four sections and then fill in with overlapped pieces of newspaper. Keep pieces about 1” square.

9. There is no need to make a big mess. Wipe excess paste into the container. Make sure to overlap pieces at least one half the size of the piece. That gives you a double layer right away.

10. Use an alternate type of paper such as paper toweling in order to count each layer. On all layers, overlap at least half the size of each piece. You now have about four layers on your mask.

11. Another heavily overlapped layer of newspapers equals about six layers. After the paper toweling, you go back to newspaper. Make sure to pay special attention to the edge of the mask.

12. End with the second layer of paper toweling because it’s easier to paint. You should now have a really strong mask to decorate.

13. Plastic mask bases are available if you have the budget for such things. They have raised features. A light coating of vaseline keeps the paper mache’ from sticking to the mask base.

14. Student Samples

15. More Student Samples

16. Have Fun decorating!