Paper Mache Masks - 3rd & 4th Grade -

Paper Mache Masks — 3rd & 4th Grade

Three colorful handmade paper mache masks with vibrant decorations of feathers, yarn, and paint are displayed together.

These paper mache masks by the 3rd/4th grade received lots of compliments when they were hanging in the hallway.

The class was studying Native American history in their Social Studies and we looked at some Pacific Northwest Coast masks and we discussed the functions of masks in general throughout the world.

A colorful, abstract Paper Mache mask with red yarn hair and feathers in various colors, including pink, purple, and green.

We started with a mask form (made of paper mache) that I ordered in a class pack from Nasco. From this starting point, the students built up and embellished their mask by creating an armature with newspapers and masking tape. The key is to use LOTS of masking tape to really secure the parts. They built up beaks, noses, ears, horns, cheeks, mouths and other appendages. Then, they used newspaper strips dipped in Elmers Paper Mache Art Paste to coat their masks.

Blue animal mask with painted features, a green feather, and a decorative green band across the top—great for 4th Grade art projects.

After the paper mache was dry, the students painted their masks with acrylic paints.

Orange and black spotted animal mask with feathers and textured details on ears and nose, ideal for 3rd grade or 4th grade art projects like paper mache masks.

Additional materials were added: feathers, fur, raffia, yarn, ribbon and fabric.

Red paper mache mask with black eye and nose markings, and long, dark brown hair attached to the top and sides. Colorful mask with yellow feathers, large grey nose, black and yellow face paint, and white eyes on a white background. Ideal for 3rd Grade art projects featuring Paper Mache Masks. Various animal masks with vibrant colors and different materials, including paper mache masks, are displayed on a red background. A red bulletin board displays various colorful, handmade animal and character masks crafted by 3rd and 4th graders.