What's the easiest way to make a masquerade mask, but still make it look authentic?

What are some simple materials to make an easy but good looking mask?What's the easiest way to make a masquerade mask, but still make it look authentic?
i made one last year with strips of plaster (kinda looks like the stuff you make casts out of) you tie your hair back, put petroleum jelly on your face (just where the mask is going) DONT FORGET THE EYEBROWS! you may need to put alot there. cut the plaster into thin one inch strips about 5 in. long and have someone else place the strips down the bridge of your nose and bordering the face, the fill in the spaces in the middle and layer until its thick enough. once its dry peel it off and then wait till your sure its COMPLETLY dry inside and out and then you can decorate it