There are just a few hours left until Halloween and is the mask still a mirage? Happens. But before you give in to panic (or worse, buy something disposable at the supermarket), know that with what you already have at home you can make surprising, original and — bonus — decidedly more sustainable DIY Halloween masks. Recycled cardboard, paper plates, paper bags left over from shopping: everything comes in handy. Here are 5 chronic latecomer-proof ideas.
Cardboard masks: classic but always a winner
Cardstock is the most versatile starting point there is. With white sheets you can make a skull or a ghost, with black a mysterious cat, with orange a pumpkin, and with green you can transform into the Incredible Hulk. The 2024-2025 trend sees paper masks as protagonists among adults too, thanks to the rediscovery of creative DIY on social media.
Choose the mask you want to reproduce, trace the shape and the eyes on the cardboard of the chosen color, cut everything out carefully and remove the eyes. Add details with markers or tempera, and finally make two small holes on the sides, inserting an elastic cord for comfortable wearing.
Mexican skull with paper plate – the most instagrammable option
The Día de los Muertos continues to inspire Halloween around the world, and the colorful Mexican skull is now an icon. The good news? All you need is a white paper plate to make a mind-blowing one.
Guaranteed result, completion time: less than 20 minutes.
Monsters with paper bags: the DIY full face mask
Do you want a mask that covers your entire head? Paper bags are the answer. They work great for children and adults, and the result is always spectacular. Plus, reusing paper shopping bags is a small green gesture to be proud of.
Cardboard spider: eight legs of pure effect
Spider-themed masks never go out of date, and this version with pipe cleaners is perfect for both children and those who want a fun look without too much effort.
Spider with sunglasses: the coolest look of the evening
This is the mask for those who want to be original with minimal effort — and it always works. Sunglasses transformed into spiders have become a small Halloween DIY classic, also much loved on social media for their simplicity and photographic result.
The beauty of these masks? In addition to being very easy and effective, they use materials that you probably already have at home, avoiding unnecessary purchases and reducing waste. A more creative and a little greener Halloween: the perfect combo.
