Make your own carnival masks!

Masks have a long history through the years and are used in many countries for different reasons, based on their customs. Today, masks are strongly associated with the carnival season and of course...they are a basic element of disguises and carnival costumes. 

Μasks are made from various materials, such as wood, metal, clay, stone, leather, paper and more. Most of the masks imitate human expressions in order to bring out emotions. That's why we can find funny, happy or sad masks, fascinating and scary masks!

So... how about making our own carnival mask?

Download ECM's leaflet here and choose the one you like the most! Take a good look at the designs on it and think who might be wearing this mask: a funny actor, an impressive king or a fearless hero? Gather materials that you will find at home, such as colored pencils, craft materials, small items, recyclable materials and make your own Halloween mask.

What do you need? 

  • a pair of scissors
  • a pencil
  • markers, crayons, watercolors
  • glue or stapler
  • ribbon or rubber band, wooden stick or straws
  • various objects and materials that you will find at home! 

How do we start?

  • Print the pattern of the mask you like best and paint it as you like!
  • Then cut the mask with a pair of scissors! Don't forget to cut the holes where your eyes are! If the scissors are difficult for you, just ask for help.
  • Start decorating now: feathers, pom poms, fabrics, beads, rhinestones, glitter, streamers, foil, egg cases and anything else you can imagine!
  • At the end, make 2 small holes in the edge of each mask and thread a rubber band or ribbon through them. This will allow you to tie it behind your head. Alternatively, glue a wooden stick or straw to one side of the mask! That way, you can hold it in your hand.
  • Put on the mask and have fun with your siblings and friends!

Don't forget to send us photos of your masks! By the way...which pattern will you choose?

#Tips

  • In ancient Greek theater, actors covered their faces with masks. Masks were usually funny, sad or even scary. How about making your own Ancient Greek theater mask? You can see here and here various Ancient Greek theater masks and take inspiration! Don't forget the members of your family: everyone can make their own mask, choose a role and play an Ancient Greek theater! Ready? And the show begins!
  • Did you know the Museums Of... Masks? There are museums, around the world, dedicated to the history of masks. Two of these museums are The Museum of Cultural Masks: Second Face in America and The Mask Museum of San Miguel de Allende in Mexico. Let's visit these two museums here and here and discover more about masks and their history! Find their collections and see how many and different masks they have from all over the world! Which mask do you like the best? Which is the weirdest or the funniest?
  • Today, more people use masks in their everyday life. What do we wear when we dive into the sea? How do we protect our face from the Coronavirus? What doctors wear in the operating room? But of course... masks! How many different masks do you have in your home? Let's find out!