The best thing about Mardi gras is the costumes and masks. It's like the hardcore Halloween that works to sweep away the Winter blues in a flurry on confetti and brass horns.
The Mask:
You can take on Mardi Gras this year with a mask that not only looks fabulous, but is custom-made to fit your very own face.
- Use this Paper Mache Mask photo tutorial to get you started with a blank mask that is fitted to your own face. From here, you can paint it, or add feathers.
- Make a Feathered Mask A feather-covered mask is not only impressive, but it can be easy to make. I've put together some simple diagrams to get you full-coverage plumage. Caw!
It's not a must, but I thought I should mention here that the traditional Mardi Gra colors are purple, green and gold. In 1892, Rex, the King of Carnival, chose the Mardi Gras colors.
- Purple symbolizes justice.
- Green is for faith.
- Gold stands for power.
The Costume:
Here are a bunch of full costume tutorials for you to use with your mask. Most of these call for household objects and cheap materials.
- Fairy Costume
- Mermaid Costume
- Flapper Costume
- Marilyn Monroe Costume
- Playboy Bunny Costume
- Disco Costume
- More Wild Costumes to Make
To enhance your disguise, try adding these wigs, wings and accessories:
- Make a Tiny Top Hat
- Make a Feathered Party Hat
- Ruby Slippers or Glittery Shoes
- How-to Yarn Wig
- How-to Fairy Wings
- Make Dragon Wings
- Fairy Bubble Bottle
- Yarn Party Hair
- How-to Belt Pouch
- Make a Hooded Cape
The important part is to remember not to be yourself. Wear a wig, try on some stilts... the sky is the limit, and we should all have a day to celebrate that. Here is some inspiration from experienced revelers. Party on, Wayne!
