With face masks mandatory in Melbourne and Mitchell Shire from 22 July, and cautious residents in other states adopting the trend, we’ll be seeing a lot more people covering up to protect themselves against the spread of COVID-19. We’ve sourced a number of colourful and interesting face masks from Australian designers to help you cover up in public.
While these masks are helpful in covering your face while you’re out and stopping you touching your face, if it’s surgical grade masks you’re after, check the guidelines from the Therapeutic Goods Administration.
1. A night on the town
If you’re planning an evening out, or wanting to dress up to get the takeaway from the local fish and chip shop, then these masks by Brisbane designer Gail Sorronda will make quite an impact! Made with a double layer of cotton, embroidered double mesh net and elastic ribbons, they’re an elegant way to stay covered up. You can order one online from Gail Sorronda.
2. Animal designs
Image supplied.
When designer Mim Harvey’s store shut down in Adelaide’s Rundle Mall in a bid to help flatten the curve, she was determined to keep sewing and wanted to help essential workers by making a series of cute masks with a variety of prints and animal designs. The masks were so popular that they are also available to the public and can be ordered through Harveythelabel on Facebook. Currently prints with foxes, raccoons and parrots are still in stock!
3. Bold prints
Artwork by Ruth Napaljarri Stewart – Warlukurlangu Artists. Image supplied.
These gorgeous face masks available from Alperstein Designs are printed with artwork from Aboriginal Artists who are sourced through a variety of art centres throughout Australia. Artwork is reproduced under license from Warlukurlangu Artists & Munupi Arts and features earthy colours and tones on designs. Each mask also comes with information about the artist and artwork once the mask arrives.
Read: The 2020 Craft and Design Calendar
4. For a good cause
Melbourne’s Second Stitch is a not-for-profit social enterprise that employs women from asylum-seeker and refugee backgrounds with profits going to those in need. These face masks come in a variety of colours and patterns and are made from tightly woven cotton which is breathable and has a cotton lining which allows you to slide in an additional filter. A filter can be anything from a coffee filter to a pantyhose lining which gives the mask added protection.
5. Design your own
Image via Shutterstock
For the craft lovers, why not make your own mask? This viral Tik Tok video shows you how to make a mask by using a sock (just make sure you wash it first!). It’s straightforward and uses a common item there’ll be an abundance of in any household.
Victoria’s Department of Health and Human Services has provided a guide on How to make a cloth mask. Much like the sock, it also allows you to use common household items such as exercise gear or a re-useable green shopping bag, but you’ll have to make sure the items are still in tact and not too worn. You’ll need a pair of scissors, a sewing needle, shoelaces, and a little big of imagination but aside from that there’s no limit to what you can make.
Whatever mask option you choose, stay safe out there and keep up with the latest medical advice in your state.
