Kaonashi Paper Mache Mask (Ghibli Studio)

Hello, everyone! This time I will make a paper mache mask. While this technique can be used for making any mask, I will make the mask of my most favorite character from Ghibli Studio, Kaonashi or No Face. This might be perfect for your cosplay properties.

Supplies

You are going to need:

White glue (PVAc glue mix with water 1:3, or mode podge)
Masking tape
Mannequin head
Plastic bag/plastic wrap
Newspapers
Brush
Acrylic Paint (White and purple)
Black marker
Ribbon
Cutter
Scissors

Addition to detail: Cassa fabric for the eyes.

Step 1: Prepare the Mannequin Head

Kaonashi mask is quite flat, so I need to cover the face of the mannequin with a piece of paper to hide the contour of the face (eyes, nose). Then, wrap the mannequin head with a plastic bag. Start placing masking tape over the face part of the mannequin.

Step 2: Paper Mache

Cut the newspaper into 1 cm width strips. Pour the glue-water mixture (1:3) or Mod Podge into a container. Start sticking the paper strips on the masking tape with the glue.

After finish with one layer of the papers, wait until dry. Then continue adding more layers. I made 6 layers of paper. After it was completely dry, I took the mask off of the mannequin head and cut out the face shape with a pair of scissors.

Step 3: The Eyes

Then I draw and cut some eye holes using a cutting pen. I used some masking tape to cover the raw edges around the eyes.

Step 4: Paint

The main color of Kaonashi's mask is white, and a little bit of purple waterdrop shape. I painted the mask with acrylic paint and used a marker for the black line under the eyes and also the mouth. The mask is wrinkly and imperfect, but I really like how it turned out!

Step 5: Details on the Eyes

Kaonashi's mask has dark eyes. So I need to add a little detail to hide my eyes when I use the mask. Then I figured that I can use gauze and paint it black with a marker. After that tape them to the back of the mask, and paint over the masking tape with a coat of white acrylic paint and let it dry.

Last picture: although I covered the eye holes with gauze, I still can see through the eye holes.

Step 6: One Last Thing

Now we get to add the ribbon to the mask. I decided to hot glue the ribbon from inside the mask instead of hole punching the side of the mask because I want the black ribbon to be invisible.

Step 7: The Finish Line

It's not perfect, but I really like the result and used it as my collection of Ghibli-inspired decorations.

Actually, it was my very first time making a paper mache mask, and it's really fun! The supplies are cheap and easy to find. This can be a nice craft project to do with kids.

Quinzy Varira | Instagram | TikTok