It wouldn't be a Mardi Gras celebration without colorful masks to go along with those fabulous pasta "bead" necklaces. Making masks takes very little effort but can be loads of fun for your little ones.
What you'll need: Plain eye masks (purchase from party or crafts stores) OR some of these printable mask templates printed on card stock and cut out by an adult; green, purple and yellow markers, paint, glitter, sequins, feathers, beads, or whichever adornments you have around the house; glue; yarn or lengths of elastic; staples or tape (optional); straws (optional)
Once you have purchased or cut out the masks, allow your little ones to be as creative as they want in decorating the masks. The traditional colors of Mardi Gras are purple, green, and gold, but allow them to be as creative as colorful as they wish.
Ready made-masks will already have an elastic band to attach to your child's head. You can do the same on a mask template by punching small holes in the outer corners and threading elastic or yarn through and tying in a large knot. Or you can tape or staple the yarn or elastic. Using yarn is probably easiest, since you can then tie it onto your children's heads and adjust it to fit. Or, affix a straw with glue or strong tape to one side of the mask and make it a handheld mask.
Worn with yesterday's Mardi Gras pasta bead necklaces, these masks can make a fun and festive addition to a delicious Mardi Gras meal or a fun family parade around the block or house on Tuesday. Stay tuned tomorrow for simple instructions to make your own parade drums and for a tasty (and easy) Cajun menu the whole family will enjoy on Fat Tuesday!
