Here's a quick DIY for scarecrow masks as I couldn't find anything out there! If there's a tutorial for scarecrow masks out there please link so we can have more info
- use a plastic drama/face mask. Optional: cover the inside with burlap.
- build up a liner for the head strip by strip that attaches to the mask.
- layer additional burlap to your design.
- paint.
Now a couple of tricks I've come across or had to figure out myself:
Completely soak the burlap for a few minutes then remove excess water. Use the wet burlap and drape it over an armature and twist, prod, push it into a shape you want. When it's dry it'll keep it's shape.
Cover the eye holes with burlap or creepy cloth then remove some of the strands. This will allow you to see out but make it hard for people to see in.
- Perma wet works well to adding depth to areas of the mask
- Perma blood works well
- Use translucent paints or paint washes
- Use non toxic adhesives if it's going to be worn
- An Ed-Head armature bust is very handy to have
- An awl is handy to punch holes through the mask for stitches
- Use a painters head mask if the burlap is itchy
- Make sure the burlap has no added chemicals. (fabric grade vs. industrial/landscape grade)
- You can stretch and squeeze burlap so you can cover a bumpy surface without wrinkles
For the final distressing and painting, I've always kept one word in mind for all my props. LAYER! Build up layers of colors over your finished product to add depth and realism to the prop. For example, darken the low spots and folds with darker paints, add layers of colors to those areas and other areas of the prop to compliment the design.