Beaded Phoenix Mask

This is an easy project that only takes a little time and patience. The Phoenix design is ny own, unique design and I'd appreciate if you didn't duplicate it...have fun making up one of your own! All you need to do is make a mask template the size and shape you want, cut out the eyeholes and punch out holes for ties on each side, and trace it onto your favorite bead embroidery fabric (I use heavy Pellon). Place any larger focals you want, such as the central sodalite cabochon in my design, then let your imagination branch out. Mine took the form of a Red Phoenix in flight, the head and body are on the left, the tail fanned out on the right. I used seed beads of all types, crystals and anything I thought would mesh. Finish by gluing to a backing (I use wool felt) and beading around to finish the edge. Attach the ties and go!