Printable Calavera Mask: Last-Minute Craft for Teachers and Moms
Need a last-minute Day of the Dead or Halloween costume? Get our FREE printable Calavera mask template! A super easy DIY upcycling craft for teachers and moms using recycled cardboard.
We know how fast time flies, especially when major celebrations and costume parties are just around the corner! If you're looking for that quick, super fun, and culturally sweet craft to celebrate Day of the Dead at home or at school (or even for a fast Halloween costume!), we have the perfect solution.
This simple Calaverita Mask is the ideal last-minute project for moms and teachers who want a touch of creative magic without the hassle.
MATERIALS:
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This is an upcycling dream project! You'll only need:
Free Printable. Letter-size Calaverita (Skull) design printable that you can download in the image below.
Cereal cardboard box (this will be our sturdy base!).
Gem stickers, sequins, glitter or bright markers like we used in the project HERE.
Ribbon or balloon string (about 30 inches total).
Scissors, hole punch (optional), and a cutter/utility knife (for adult use ONLY!).
Free Printable Calaverita Mask: Last-Minute Craft for Teachers & Moms. Click the image and download the printable
Create A Calaverita Mask in Minutes!
Follow these simple steps to create your festive calaverita mask for the Dia de los Muertos celebrations:
Part 1: The Calavera Shape
Cut Out the Calaverita Shape: Give the Calaverita its shape, cutting the whole border.
Glue and Reinforce: Reinforce your mask by gluing the paper skull to the cardboard. Be sure to press so there are no bubbles and wait until the glue is dry.
Final Cut: Once the glue is dry, cut the Calaverita around the edge again, slicing through both the paper and the cardboard. You'll have a sturdy, finished shape!
✨ Quick Tip: Cutting both layers at once is a real time-saver! However, if you're aiming for absolute perfection, you might want to cut the cardboard first, then glue the already-cut paper shape on top. Do whatever feels easiest for you or your kids!
Open the Eyes: Using the Cutter or Utility Knife (Moms and Teachers, this is your job!), carefully cut out the eye circles.
Part 2: Time to Decorate!
Add the Sparkle: Here comes the most fun part! Encourage the kids to strategically place the glitter and gem stickers like these ones here, creating floral or geometric patterns inspired by traditional calaveritas de azúcar (sugar skulls). Use all the colors!
Part 3: The Final Touch
Prep the Ribbon: Use the hole punch to make a clean hole on each side of the mask.
Secure the Tie: Cut a piece of ribbon or balloon string into two pieces, about 15 inches (38 cm) each, and tie one piece to each hole.
And that's it! Your colorful Calaverita Mask is ready to go. This was such a fast project, and we know the kids (or your students!) are going to absolutely love the fun, festive vibes this last-minute craft brings to Day of the Dead!
Keep the festive spirit going! If you're looking for more creative ideas and FREE printable templates to decorate your altar or your Day of the Dead party, don't miss our full collection below.
Click for more Dia de Muertos crafts HERE
