Each year, around this time. . .
{.: Clockwise from top: Easy Bird Costume, Cape for All Seasons, Leaf Mask, Ladybug Costume :.}
. . . we put our hands to needles, string, cloth or paper to make a nature inspired costume. . .
. . . and this year, we've added to the collection. But, much like the Cape for All Seasons, this mask is no one trick pony.
Utilizing a simple felt base the mask and wrist band set can become anything you'd like. I chose to focus on birds today, but flowers, fungi, butterflies or bugs could just as easily take the stage.
{.: From Left to Right: Birds of Paradise Mask and Seasonal Capes from our book! :.}
So head out into the woods. . .
{.: Handmade Fox mask from the shop. . . for those who want handmade but don't have the time. :.}
. . . and see what sparks your imagination.
The Everybird Mask
Materials:
- Pencil, paper and scissors
- cloth measuring tape or ruler
- Two pieces of felt approximately 8.5" x 11"
- Ribbon or string
- Needle and thread (or sewing machine)
- Scrap fabric
- Velcro
Using the measuring tape or ruler, measure the width of your child's face and make note of the distance between their eyes. With these measurements in hand, sketch a mask shape on a piece of paper that has the same width and make marks where the eye holes should go. Play with the shape and size of the eye holes until you have something you like.
Cut out two mask shapes from your felt using your paper pattern. Then cut 4 strips of felt approximately 1.25" wide. Measure your child's wrist and trim the length so that it is a bit smaller than the wrist circumference.
With a needle and thread, sew around the edges of the mask inserting a ribbon or string at either side to make the ties. Do the same for each wrist piece.
Once you have decided what type of mask you would like, cut the shapes out of scrap fabric. Sew these together in groups and attach Velcro to the back of each group. Stick them on to the wrist bands and mask and head out to play!
Happy Imagining!
~ Sarah
P.S. Like the other costumes pictured above? Here are the links:
Birds of Paradise Mask and Seasonal Capes from our book
Handmade Fox mask from the shop
*Last time in Crafts and Activities: Autumn Storytelling Game
