An Easy and Perfect Paper Tiger Mask

Before assembly, gently pre-bend all parts to give them a natural curve. High precision is not required — just slightly bend the pieces, using the visual instruction as a guide. This step is important because it helps the parts fit together easily and prevents them from resisting during gluing.

This step is not required if you are using vector files and working on a cutting machine with a 400 × 400 mm working area. When printing on Letter or A4, some large parts are divided into several sections. These sections should be joined together first to make further assembly easier. I recommend adding a reinforcement strip on the inside of the part. This way, the pieces will align edge to edge, creating a perfectly smooth and even surface at the joint.

For positive-angle seams, use masking tape on the outside. For negative-angle seams, use silver tape on the inside. Once the parts are positioned, secure the seam from the inside with hot glue. This method creates a clean, strong, and nearly invisible seam on the outside. I recommend working in small sections: Fix 5–10 cm of the seam with hot glue, then move forward step by step. Accuracy is very important. First, perfectly align the parts using tape, and only then secure them with hot glue. Always follow the numbering order. The correct placement and which part connects to which is clearly shown in the visual instruction.

Prepare the head ring so it fits your head comfortably. Then glue the ring inside the mask to secure the fit. A ring template is included in the file set, so you can easily adjust the size for your head.

Start with the orange base layer. Apply the paint freely, according to your preference — the shape of the mask naturally guides you and helps define the forms. This painting stage is very easy — no special skills are needed. It's no harder than painting a wall.

The white layer is a bit more detailed. Apply white paint to specific areas of the mask to highlight the shapes and add contrast. Take your time, but don't worry — the process is still simple and intuitive, and the mask's form helps you understand where the white color works best.

This is the most fun and creative part. Add the black stripes in your own style — there is no right or wrong way. I used a photo of a real tiger that I took at the zoo as inspiration. Use light, fast brush movements, barely touching the surface. This helps you build rhythm and creates rough, expressive marks that follow the natural direction of the fur. Let your creativity flow — this step gives the mask its true character.

If you like, you can paint the nose in a separate color. I mixed one drop of red paint with white to get a soft light pink shade. This small detail adds a nice accent and makes the mask look more alive and expressive.

This step is optional, but it adds depth and realism. Take the orange paint and apply a second light layer, slightly overlapping the edges of the black stripes. This creates the effect of directional fur, as if the fur has volume and flows naturally across the mask. The mask is already painted at this stage — you're just enhancing the texture and depth with subtle strokes, following the same fur direction. This small detail makes the mask look more dynamic and alive.