Make a paper mask
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Create a wearable paper mask using paper, scissors, string or elastic, and decorations, practicing measuring, cutting, and safe craft skills while expressing creativity.

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Step-by-step guide to make a paper mask

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How to make a PAPER MASK 😷 ll Easy Origami FACE MASK || DIY Paper Crafts

What you need
Adult supervision required, colouring materials like markers or crayons, elastic or string, glue or tape, hole punch or sharp pencil for making holes, pencil, ruler, safety scissors, stickers or sequins optional, sturdy paper or cardstock

Step 1

Gather all your materials and put them on a clear table so everything is easy to reach.

Step 2

Measure your head width at eye level with the ruler and write that number on the paper.

Step 3

Draw a mask outline on the paper using the measurement as the width and any fun shape you like.

Step 4

Mark two eye positions on the mask outline spaced about the same distance as your eyes.

Step 5

Cut out the mask outline carefully with safety scissors following your drawing.

Step 6

Cut out the eye holes where you marked them so you can see through the mask.

Step 7

Colour and decorate the mask with markers crayons and stickers to make it look awesome.

Step 8

Glue on any extra decorations and let the glue dry completely before moving on.

Step 9

Punch a hole on each side of the mask where the ear area will be.

Step 10

Thread elastic or string through each hole and tie knots so the mask fits comfortably around your head.

Step 11

Put the mask on and ask an adult to help trim or adjust for comfort if needed.

Step 12

Take a photo of your finished mask and share your creation on DIY.org

Final steps

You're almost there! Complete all the steps, bring your creation to life, post it, and conquer the challenge!

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Help!?

What can we use if we don't have elastic, stickers, or a hole punch?

Use ribbon, yarn, or a strip of fabric threaded through hand-made slits in step 10 and replace stickers with small cut paper shapes glued on in step 7.

Why can my child not see well through the mask after cutting the eye holes?

If the eye holes from step 5 are too small or off-center, hold the mask to the child's face, re-measure eye spacing with the ruler from step 2, and carefully enlarge or reposition the holes with safety scissors a little at a time.

How can I adapt this mask activity for different age groups?

For toddlers (3–5) pre-cut the outline in step 4 and let them do steps 6–8 with supervision, while older kids can precisely measure head width in step 2, add layered decorations in step 7, and finish the elastic threading in step 10 themselves.

How can we make the finished mask more special before taking a photo to share?

Glue a second sheet of paper to the back in step 4 for strength, add sequins or feathers when gluing decorations in step 7, and trim edges in step 11 for a neat look before photographing for DIY.org.

Watch videos on how to make a paper mask

Here at SafeTube, we're on a mission to create a safer and more delightful internet. 😊

Paper Mask Origami Tutorial | DIY Paper Mask for Kids (EASY!)

4 Videos

Facts about paper crafts for kids

✂️ Safety scissors for kids usually have rounded tips and special blades to help prevent pokes and nicks while cutting paper.

🎭 Masks have been used for over 4,000 years in rituals, theater, and celebrations around the world.

📏 Measuring twice before cutting is a maker's secret — it helps your mask fit better and saves materials from being wasted.

📄 Paper was invented in China around the 2nd century CE and quickly became a favorite for crafts because it's cheap and easy to cut.

🎨 The ornate masks of Venice's Carnival can be so detailed that some antique masks sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

How do you make a wearable paper mask?

To make a wearable paper mask, measure across your child’s face and mark a paper or cardstock strip to fit. Fold or sketch a mask shape, draw eye holes and a nose cutout, then carefully cut out shapes. Punch holes at the sides, attach elastic or string and test fit. Finally, decorate with crayons, stickers, feathers, or sequins. Supervise cuts and adjust fit for comfort.

What materials do I need for a paper mask?

Materials you'll need: sturdy paper or cardstock, pencil and ruler for measuring, child-safe scissors, hole punch, elastic cord or string, tape or glue, and fasteners like staples if desired. For decorating use markers, crayons, stickers, glitter, feathers, or foam shapes. Optional: paper plates, cereal boxes, or printable templates as a base. Keep small decorations away from toddlers and use non-toxic supplies.

What ages is this activity suitable for?

This craft suits ages 3 and up with adjustments: Ages 3–5 enjoy decorating and wearing masks but need an adult to cut shapes and handle small parts. Ages 6–8 can measure and cut with supervision, learning fine motor skills. Ages 9+ can design complex shapes, add movable parts, or use templates independently. Always match tools and decoration choices to a child's coordination and supervise scissors and small items.

What are safety tips and fun variations for paper masks?

Safety tips: use child-safe scissors, pre-cut small or intricate pieces for young children, choose non-toxic adhesives, and avoid loose small parts with toddlers. Check elastic fits to prevent choking and reinforce holes with tape. Variations: make animal masks, superhero designs, 3D masks with folded elements, or holiday-themed templates. Encourage measuring and symmetry challenges to add math and fine-motor learning.
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Make a paper mask. Activities for Kids.