This mask is incredible cheap and easy to make for all ages. If I had more time I might have made a fancier one out of papier mache, but this paper mask works as a quick alternative when you are pressed for time, or want to have a Halloween/Day of the Dead project to work with kids.

The hardest part was drawing a proportional skull, but I've provided a cut-out of my original (that I widened to fit better), so all you have to do is print it out to start!

Step 1: Supplies

Markers
Scissors
Hole Punch
Printed Calavera Cut-out
Rubberband/stretchy string
Glue

Step 2: Color Your Calavera

There are all kinds of styles to choose from when coloring your calavera. For inspiration you can look at pictures online. My design was based on some for Mexican Day of the Dead celebrations, but with my own quirks. The yellow and orange marigold flowers represent the short time we spend on earth; a kind of symbolic carpe diem according to Mexican tradition.

Step 3: Cut Out Calavera

Cut around the calavera and cut out the eyes.

Step 4: Attach Rubberbands

1. Cut a thin strip of paper and it over about four times until it is about one inch long. Punch a hole in one end of it. Glue the layers together and then glue the strip onto the edge of the mask to the sides of the eye sockets with the hole sticking out.

2. Repeat this for the other side of the mask.

3. Cut a large rubberband in half and tie each end to the holes in the strips.

4. Wear and enjoy!