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Each mask begins with small strips of paper and paste applied over one of eight different face molds in the overlay method. Once the paper mache face form is dry, the design for the mask is drawn freehand onto it in pencil, with particular care taken to assure the design is even and symmetrical. Drawn into the design are the areas where any large rhinestones and rhinestone chain, and feathers will eventually be placed.
I’m very selective about the rhinestones, rhinestone chain and glass beads that I use, preferring by far the luster, clarity and depth of machine cut stones, and feathers. I have a wide assortment of rhinestone chain, and almost all of the rhinestones and crystal beads in my inventory are Swarovski. A few others were chosen for their beauty or uniqueness.
In order for the bottom metal portion of the rhinestone chain to be hidden from view and to secure it more firmly to the mask, I’ve devised a method of adding relief to areas of the mask to create channels for the chain. I use a dremel tool to create the holes for the band or ties, as well as settings for the smaller faceted-back rhinestones that are secured with jeweler’s glue.
As with traditional Venetian masks, gesso is repeatedly applied and sanded until the mask is smooth and even. Because the gesso must dry completely before being sanded, this process can take from several days to up to a week to complete. Then each mask is painted front and back with very thin, opaque acrylic ink, which applies smoothly and can be mixed to create an infinite array of colors. I also have a wide range of acrylic pearlescent and metallic inks which look very striking on the masks. Once the ink is dry, several coats of acrylic varnish are applied to seal it.
The mask really starts coming to life when the metal leaf is applied and the rhinestones and rhinestone chain are secured into their settings. Metal grommets are inserted into the holes for the band so that the any friction from the band won’t damage the mask. And then the final painstaking step is to use a tiny brush to very carefully apply one last thin coat of varnish around just the very base of each rhinestone to further ensure that they stay secure in their settings. This step requires a steady hand and can take quite a while, especially on masks with hundreds of rhinestones, and feathers.
Despite their delicate appearance, these masks are very sturdy and should last for decades with minimal care. As with all paper mache artwork, they need to be kept dry when worn and, when not worn, displayed or stored in dry place.
Have any questions? Feel free to ask! e-mail: [email protected]
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