DIY - Carnival/Mardi Gras Harlequin Half Mask

I started off with a full paper mache face mask which I drew my desired shape onto.  I then carefully cut out the shape.

Once I cut the shape out I gently filed the edges of the mask with a nail file to get rid of any jagged edges.  Remember to file around the eyes as well as these can be a bit rough sometimes.

Next I took a piece of soft cardboard and used it to draw lines on the mask.  The reason I used cardboard was because it can bend easily around the curves of the mask.

Once you're happy with the design, you're ready to paint.

Simple black and white (or whatever colour you want) craft paints will do the job together with a simple paint brush.  I used a straight edge brush so that it would be easier to get into the corners.

Just fill in the pattern, I painted the black onto the white mask and then blended white with a little black to add some dimension to the white, not filling it in completely, just a little.  Around the edges I dragged a touch of black up onto the mask to give an aged effect, I also did this around the eye hole. Lastley I painted black on the very edge of the mask (outside and eyehole) to define the edges.

For the Headpiece:

I used a large flower clip that I already had, some ribbons and beading.  

With a hot glue gun (or your fav glue of choice) arrange the ribbons in an appealing way, I looped the large organza ribbon in a bow effect and then loosly looped the smaller ribbons and beads to hang down.  I also added a few skinny feathers for interest.

Once you have finished, glue a stick to your mask, pin your head piece in your hair and off you go!!! :)

You can find my makeup tutorial for this look HERE