DIY Face Masks

Advice from the Australian Chief Medical Officer

Wearing a mask can help protect you and those around you. If the person wearing the mask is unknowingly infected, this mask will reduce the chance of them passing the virus on to others. For people at increased risk of severe COVID-19, a mask is an important protective measure to take, along with physical distancing.

The proper way to wear face masks

People wearing masks need to know how to wear their masks properly for them to be effective. Advice from the Australian Government says:

• Wash or sanitise your hands before putting your mask on or taking it off
• Make sure the mask covers your nose and mouth and fits snugly under your chin, over the bridge of your nose and against the sides of your face
• Do not touch the front of your mask while wearing or removing it
• Do not allow the mask to hang around your neck or under your nose
• Do not reuse single use masks - wash and dry reusable or DIY/homemade masks after use and store in a clean dry place.

Making DIY face masks (and doing it correctly)

Homemade masks can be just as protective as a store-bought ones, as long as you use the right materials and ensure there are three layers of fabric:

• The outer layer should be a water-resistant fabric (polyester/polypropylene)
• The middle layer could be a repeat of the material on the outer layer or a fabric blend (cotton polyester blend/polypropylene)
• The inner layer against your mouth and skin should be a water-absorbing fabric (cotton)
• Ear loops can be made from plastic, string or cloth strips (even shoelaces).

Make sure all your materials are in good condition and not worn too thin or have holes, otherwise the protective qualities of your mask will be compromised. Purchasing new fabrics for your mask shouldn't cost an arm and a leg and you get the satisfaction of having a new, functional fashion item or even multiple ones to match with different outfits.

Check out our face mask projects for some great ideas to get you started.

Find the right face masks and fabrics at Spotlight

Don't have the right fabrics at home and need to purchase? You can click through an extensive range of face mask material and mask making supplies - cotton poplin, flannelette, fat quarters and elastics - on our website and buy online.

Alternatively, head into a Spotlight store to check out the different bathroom accessories available and speak with one of our friendly customer service team who'll be happy to answer your questions.

We’ve made a video explaining how to make the McCall’s mask pattern with three layers of fabric, and optional fabric ties instead of elastic.