Week 5: Paper Mache Mask

 

An example of how the balloon can be secured between the desk and the table for convenience.

The size of an inflated balloon should not be too small (as big as an A4 size paper) as it will shrink after a few days. Tear the newspaper vertically (not horizontally otherwise you are likely to end up with chunks) in strips. If you find that your balloon is shrinking rapidly, it means that... there's a hole! Look for it and fix the problem with scrotch tape.

You can use your fingers/ a brush to apply the white glue (Do not use gluestick) on the balloon/ newspaper. Make sure that every edge of the newspaper is covered with white glue. It's ok if it is wet. If you are using a brush, make sure the brush is not left on its own for a few hours... the glue will dry and damage the bristles!

IMPORTANT: You need to wait for each layer of newspaper to dry thoroughly before you apply a new layer. Repeat the process until you complete 4 layers of newspaper. The last layer MUST BE a piece of plain white paper/ white tissue paper. Cover only half of the balloon with newspaper. Remember, you're making a mask.

The above sample is not perfect but you get the idea. In case you wonder, the balloon will eventually shrink and fall out. The newspaper mache retained the shape.

Begin With The End in Mind.  How would you design your mask? We will paint the mask during Art lesson in Week 6.