Creating Mardi Gras masks is a fabulous craft activity that allows children to engage with the vibrant culture and history of this famous festival.
This craft is not only a fun and creative outlet but also a great way for kids to participate in the celebration of Mardi Gras or Carnival from the comfort of their own homes.
With a sprinkle of imagination and a dash of sparkle, each child can create a masterpiece as unique as the parades that march down the streets of New Orleans – and the best part is we have a free printable Mardi Gras mask template for you to get started.
What is Mardi Gras?
But first, what exactly is Mardi Gras? Often synonymous with Carnival, Mardi Gras is a festive season celebrated in many countries around the world, typically before the liturgical season of Lent.
The term “Mardi Gras” literally means “Fat Tuesday” in French, which is the last day of rich, fatty foods before the fasting of Lent begins.
This holiday is famed for its dazzling costumes, elaborate parades, and of course, the iconic masks. It’s a time of music, colour, and jubilation where everyone is invited to join the festivities.
How to Make a Mardi Gras Mask Craft
Now, let’s dive into the fun part – crafting our own Mardi Gras masks! We will explore three different mask designs that can easily be crafted by kids.
Before we begin, gather the following materials:
- Print the plain mask templates in the PDF file below, or draw freehand to create your own
- Cardboard or card stock in various colors. We love glitter card stock for this craft.
- Glitter glue and loose glitter
- Sequins in various colors
- Mardi Gras beads
- Ribbons
- Craft feathers
- Colored tissue paper
- Scissors, glue, and tape
Before we let our creativity run wild with decorations, every mask begins with a solid foundation.
Start by downloading our Mardi Gras mask template at the end of this blog post.
Print it out, and for a sturdier mask, place the printed template on a piece of cardboard. Carefully cut around the template to get the perfect mask shape. This will serve as the starting point for any design you choose.
Before you begin, if you’re using plain cardboard you can paint it the color you like such as gold, green, pink…
Good preparation sets the stage for a masterpiece, and this template is your first step towards creating a memorable Mardi Gras mask.
If you’re painting, let it dry and then begin your design. Here are three creative ideas to get you started but feel free to mix it up, or give the kids the supplies and let them free flow.
Design 1: The Classic Harlequin Mask
This design takes inspiration from the traditional harlequin mask. Cut out diamond shapes from glittery purple, green, and gold paper or colored tissue paper, and arrange them in a harlequin pattern on a plain mask.
Once your design is laid out, glue each piece down.
This mask features a playful, diamond-pattern design in traditional Mardi Gras colors of purple, green, and gold, each diamond shimmering with its own glittery finish.
To create this design, once you have your cardboard base ready, arrange and glue down the colored paper diamonds in alternating colors.
If you wish, outline the eyes with purple sequins for an elegant touch. This mask evokes the jesters of old and brings a piece of Carnival history to life.
Design 2: The Curled Ribbon Mardi Gras Mask
Float into the festivities with the Ribbon Dancer mask. After cutting out your base, adorn the perimeter of the eyes with deep purple sequins to start.
Then, select ribbons in green and gold, curl them with scissors or a pencil, and attach them to top of the mask, creating a wonderful effect that captures the spirit of Carnival.
The Ribbon mask is a vision of festivity and flair, each ribbon catches the light differently, creating a shimmering spectacle. This mask encapsulates the exuberance of Mardi Gras, perfect for kids who want to embody the festival’s vivacious energy.
Design 3: Feathers and Beads Mardi Gras Mask
Stand out with your own Regal Plume, this a mask that boasts a majestic flair.
Begin by creating a sequined outline around the eyes with your choice of purple or gold sequins.
Next, take Mardi Gras beads in green, purple, and gold and create a draped effect around the edges of the mask.
For the crowning glory, attach a large, glittering feather plume to the top of the mask.
This design is perfect for those who want to make a royal statement and the draping beads will dance with you as you move. This mask is perfect for those who love to express movement and joy in their craft.
While these are three starter ideas, the true magic of Mardi Gras is in its limitless creativity. Encourage kids to come up with their own designs, drawing inspiration from typical Mardi Gras colors: purple signifies justice, green stands for faith, and gold represents power.
This craft is perfect for kids of all ages, though younger children may need some assistance with cutting and gluing. It’s a wonderful opportunity for children to practice fine motor skills and color recognition.
For those who prefer a touch of elegance and ease, you can transform your mask into a handheld accessory by attaching a stick to one side of your completed mask, securing it firmly with glue or tape.
This addition not only adds sophistication but also allows for versatility in how you choose to showcase your mask. It’s perfect for those moments when you want to unmask to enjoy a bite of King Cake or to have a conversation with fellow revelers.
A mask on a stick also serves as a wonderful decorative piece, ready to be displayed as a festive memento of the occasion.
Download Blank Mardi Gras Mask Template PDF
For those eager to start, we will provide a downloadable blank mask template in PDF format. Simply print it out and let your imagination take the lead!
mardi-grasntheplayroom.co_.uk_Download
Making Mardi Gras masks is a fun way to discover a world of cultural celebration. It’s an activity that teaches, entertains, and inspires.
We’d love to see how your masks turn out! Please share your creations and this blog post with friends and family.
Let the good times roll, and let creativity reign this Mardi Gras season!
In The Playroom
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Anna Marikar, mum of four and seasoned blogger, has spent over a decade sharing her parenting journey and passion for kid-friendly crafts and free printables.
Her easy-to-follow craft ideas and practical parenting advice have transformed In The Playroom into a cherished resource for parents.
