Materials

• You can create a customized Mardi Gras mask with polymer clay, a pasta machine, and a coffee can. You'll also need a template for the shape of your mask and the eyes, as well as a clay cutter or craft knife to cut the openings. A knitting needle will help you make uniform holes in the clay for decorating and tying ribbons. Decoration options include acrylic paint, ribbons, feathers, flat-backed rhinestones or other embellishments. You may want to apply a coat of Pledge with Future Shine for glossy protection.
  
  

Making the Mask

• Begin with a baseball-size ball of polymer clay. You can find clay in a variety of colors or you can paint plain clay. Knead the clay ball with your hands to soften it, and then flatten it somewhat with your palm. Run the clay through the highest setting on the pasta machine so the thickness will be uniform. Lay your mask template on top of the clay and cut the shape and the eyes with your clay knife. Insert a knitting needle to make any holes you will need for the ribbon strap or decorations. You can use a coffee can to curve the mask; just place your clay on the can before you bake it. Make sure any paper has been completely removed from the can before you place it in the oven. You can slightly elevate the bottom center of your mask with your finger, shaping it on the can so it will fit over your nose. You also can press glass embellishments such as flat-backed rhinestones or cabochons into the clay before baking. Follow the manufacturer's directions for baking your clay mask.
  
  

Adding Embellishments

• After the clay mask is baked and cooled, you can paint it, let it dry and then coat it with a layer of Pledge Future Shine. After the polish is completely dry, add any other desired embellishments. Glue on feathers, tie on ribbons or add a strand of beads. Encircle glass cabochons with colorful glitter glue or cover part of the mask in sequins. Strong craft glue such as clear Liquid Nails or E-6000 will attach just about anything to your Mardi Gras mask.