Milliput is a two-part sculpting medium which air-sets. Working with it can be soft and sticky. However, the final strength when cured, and the ease with which it can be carved, sanded and painted is so worth it.
Materials:
- a blank doll head
- plastic wrap
- aluminum foil
- Milliput (I prefer the super fine white)
- sculpting tools
- dish of water
- scalpel
- sandpaper
- decorative embellishments
Instructions:
1. To protect the doll head, cover with a layer of plastic wrap (so foil doesn't scratch the head) and then press a sheet of aluminum foil over the face to capture as much detail as possible. Bunch the excess foil at the back to form a base to hold the head upright so doesn't roll away as you work on it.
2. Take equal parts of Milliput, cut the same size from the two parts and mix thoroughly until well blended.
3. Flatten the Milliput and position on head where you want your mask (can be half or full mask). Press in place.
4. Lightly cut away excess Milliput, being careful not to cut too deep and damage the doll's head underneath. Cut eye holes. Smooth edges with wet finger.
5. To add flames, leaves or other embellishment, shape bits of Milliput and pressed them along forehead. Let cure for 4 hours, then mark the position of the eye holes.
6. After the it has fully cured (preferably the next day), remove it from doll head. Remove foil and plastic wrap. Using a scalpel carefully carve eye holes so they are the same size and shape. Sand the edges of the mask, paying special attention to the edges and smoothing out any irregularities.
*Note: The inside of the mask is textured from the crumpled foil. If you wish to smooth the inside, thin some Milliput and work it into all the crinkles with a wet finger. To add eyelids to the eyes, roll two small balls of Milliput, flatten and smooth into place. Let cure.
7. Finish by painting and/or blushing with mica or pastels.