Step 1: First, choose a storybook character that you would like to bring to life through your paper bag mask. Consider the character’s distinctive features and how you can replicate them using simple materials.

Step 2: Prepare the paper bag by flattening it on your work surface, ensuring the bottom flap faces up to serve as the base for your mask.

Step 3: Using a pencil, lightly sketch the outline of your chosen character’s features onto the flattened paper bag. Focus on the shape of the face, eyes, nose, mouth, and other defining characteristics.

Step 4: Next, carefully cut along the sketched outlines to create the shape of your mask, leaving enough space around the edges to maintain the bag’s structural integrity. If needed, add pieces of another bag to the mask to create the proper shape for your character. 

Step 5: If the features of your mask will be created using crayons or oil pastels, draw them onto the bag while the bag is still flat. 

Step 6: Once your drawings are complete, gently manipulate the paper bag to give it dimension and depth. You can pinch and fold certain areas to create contours that align with your character’s facial features.

Step 7: Add facial features using construction paper or cardstock, and cut out pieces to represent the eyes, nose, and mouth of your character. Glue these features onto the paper bag mask, ensuring they align with your sketched outlines.

Step 8: Next, customize your mask by adding decorative embellishments such as googly eyes, feathers, sequins, yarn, or other materials that complement your character’s aesthetic. Use glue to secure these embellishments in place.

Step 9: Finally, allow the mask to dry. Once you’re satisfied with the design of your paper bag mask, set it aside to dry completely to ensure that all the glue and decorations adhere well before wearing or displaying it.

Step 10: Once the mask is dry, gently slide it over your face and adjust as needed. Now, you’re ready to step into the shoes of your favorite storybook character! 

Ideas to take your paper bag mask to the next level:

• Texture & Dimension: Experiment with different techniques to add texture and dimension to your mask. You can crumple tissue paper or crepe paper and glue it onto the mask to create fur, scales, or other unique textures.
• Painting & Shading: Experiment with painting techniques to add shading, highlights, and depth to your mask. Use acrylic paints or watercolors to create realistic skin tones, shadows, and other effects that bring your character to life.
• Lighting Effects: Add LED lights or small battery-operated fairy lights to your mask within or around the edges for a magical glow effect.
• Photography & Sharing: Capture the creativity of your bag through photography, experimenting with different angles, lighting setups, and backgrounds. Share your photos on social media or with friends and family to inspire others.