This is a fun project and with halloween coming!  I blow up a regular balloon to about the size of my head and then cover half of it with paper mache.  Once it dries remove the balloon and carefully cut holes for the eyes and mouth.  it is now ready for painting.  A solid coat of acrylic paint first is best and then the facial features and there you have it. Decorate it with feathers and gems and stickers and whatever!  I have used flour paste and thin strips of newspaper for the mache but art supply and craft stores have already prepared kits.  Even the Oriental Trading Co. has paper mache kits.  Give it a try and let me know what you think.