If you have the inclination to make your own masks for your own yet to be decided amazing event, then you need certain materials. Some are essential and specific for masks while others are just necessary as part of any craft-like project.

The main materials you need are:

• Base
• Paints
• Tools
• Additions

Base - This can be as simple as a plastic face. You can get these easily at craft shops and these are the best starting point. You may like to start from the very beginning and make the base from scratch but I do not recommend this for the beginner.

Paints - you must have flexible paints here if you wish your mask to also be flexible. It can dry hard and crack and break not giving you a great look. You might be able to use this to your advantage if you are making a Halloween mask however, you are making one for a masquerade.

Tools - These include cutters. Cutters themselves can include scissors and something resembling a pocket knife. This can add flexibility when it comes to cutting at certain angles and especially holes. Another one to add to this is glue. Yes, glue is definitely a tool and can make everything come together beautifully. You should have a mirror handy so you can see how the masquerade masks look as you are making them - hold them up to your face as you go along.

Additions - Depending on how you are going to wear your mask to the masquerade will depend on the additions you need. To hold it up to your face you will need a stick or small pole-like object but to wear it on your face all night you might want to use elastic. Whichever one you choose will determine the other parts that you get - how will the stick fit on or how will the elastic stay on?

Depending on what the event is and what type of masquerade masks are going to be made, then the following materials may also be required:

• paper mache materials - for making protruding features
• wire - as per the above
• other chemical materials - this is for more advanced creators

As you can see, there can be just as much fun getting everything together to make the mask of your dreams. Yours will certainly be individual and could possibly the talk of the party. You never know, this could become a money making hobby of yours. There is so much a creative person can do with the right tools and materials.