Take cover

How to make your own face mask from old pillow case

FACE masks are now essential as the HSE and Government are recommending we cover up in shops or on public transport.

Designers across Ireland are launching ranges with couture houses around the world planning masks to go with occassion wear.

The face coverings can be made from various materials such as cotton or silk.

You can create them at home using scarfs, T-shirts, sweatshirts, or towels.

Irish designer Helen Steele has brought out a range of sustainable eco cotton masks.

Each stunning accessory costs €25 with a percentage of the sales going to the Jack and Jill Foundation and Homeless Period Ireland.

But you don’t need to go designer – it’s on trend to make your own at home.

Former RTE star Mary Kennedy, from hit 80s TV show Mary Make And Do, has made a comeback helping the nation to craft their very own masks, encouraging the whole family to get involved. She

It takes about half an hour from start to finish

MARY KENNEDY ON MAKING FACE MASKS

advises using an old pillow case to make at least six masks.

She said they can also be reused once put in a hot wash in any temperature over 60C.

Mary told RTE recently: “You need an old pillow case, elastic six inches long, a needle and thread and scissors.

“It takes about half-an-hour when you’re making them from start to finish at home and I would advise people to make about six of them.” As per HSE guidelines, a mask should cover the nose and go under the chin and fit snugly against the side of the face, and be secured with ties or ear loops. It should include at least two layers of fabric to allow for breathing without restriction.

You can buy them or make them at home using items such as scarfs, T-shirts, sweatshirts, pillow cases or towels.

5. Tuck elastic knots inside the edges of the mask and stitch in place for a neater finish.

2. Fold and stitch the top and bottom edges.

4. Thread two 15cm lengths of elastic through the side edges and tie tight. Hair ties or string, cut longer and tied behind the head, will work.

1. Cut two rectangles of tightly-woven cotton about 25cm x 15cm.

3. Fold and stitch the side edges, leaving a gap big enough to thread elastic through.