Make a Mardi Gras Mask - French Project

Project for French class or independent study

by ThoughtCo
Updated May 23, 2019

Mardi Gras, which means "fat Tuesday" in French, is celebrated in many francophone regions. Mardi Gras masks are a traditional part of this annual celebration, and making them is an interesting and very creative project for all ages. These basic instructions and tips can be followed by anyone going to a Mardi Gras party or just wanting to share in the fun.

 
Project

Make a Mardi Gras mask


Instructions

  1. Choose mask base: Cardboard, plastic, metal, construction paper, etc
  2. Cut base to cover the face or eyes
  3. Cut eyeholes and holes for nose and/or mouth
  4. Punch tiny holes in each side and attach string or wire (to hold mask in place)
  5. Decorate mask
Customization
Mask Base:
  1. The mask base can be made of just about anything you don't mind wearing over your face. Paper may not last and metal might be difficult, but cardboard is a good, sturdy choice.
  2. The shape of the mask base is limited only by your creativity. You can cut an oval to cover your face or a bar to cover your eyes, or you can make another shape, such as a house, an animal, or a tree.
  3. Holes for eyes, nose, and mouth can be different shapes - stars, hearts, slits, etc.
Decorations:
  • Crayons, colored pencils, chalk, charcoal, markers, paint
  • Beads
  • Embroidery
  • Fabric
  • Fake jewels
  • Feathers
  • Flowers
  • Glitter
  • Lace
  • Ribbons
  • Sequins
  • Stickers
  • String, yarn
  • Tissue paper
  • Wax
Mardi Gras Links
Notes

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