Phase 4 of 4
Finish
The mask is built. Now: trim the edge, seal it, fill it, and bring it to life with paint.
Materials & Tools
| Material | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| PVA glue | As needed | For edging strips |
| Wood filler or stucco | As needed | Mix with a little glue to keep it flexible |
| Sandpaper | Several grits | For smoothing between coats |
| Paint | As needed | Mixed and applied with a dry brush |
Trimming the Mask
Stay Sharp
If you've become a paper mache zombie during the last few steps, find your mask maker brain again before trimming. This part deserves full attention.
1 Find the trim line — a feeling of rightness, different for every mask. Generally: before the hairline, in front of the ear, just under the chin of the person wearing it.
2 Cut the edge convex.
Never Concave
Avoid two curves coming together into a corner or a hard edge.
Edging the Mask
1 Use glue alone — no filler needed for the edge itself.
2 Apply in tiny strips.
3 Keep it ragged, not smooth.
Wood Filler
1 Mix wood filler with a little glue to keep it flexible.
2 Apply thin — too thick means too much sanding.
3 Three coats is the sweet spot.
Paint and Color
1 Mix your color.
2 Apply dry-brushed.
Color, mixed and dry-brushed, is what finally brings the mask to life.