Are you handy with a sewing machine? Have you been using a cloth face mask at some point over the past year? Well-made cloth face masks can be a good alternative to surgical face masks, they are often more cost effective and even better, they are re-useable.     Where do I start? Start by looking around at what's available. You may have a friend or family member who could sew you one, or someone in your local area may be making them to sell, usually at around $10-15 each.   If you have a sewing machine and/or overlocker, you can definitely make your own. Spotlight have some fantastic video tutorials on making all kinds of masks, and they are an easy place to get your mask-making supplies from right across Australia.   The Victorian government released a pattern here  and the NSW government, released their guide to making one here.   What next? Choose your materials. Current recommendations are to use quilting cotton for 2 layers (outer/inner) with a water resistant filter in the middle. Whether you use a pattern with a pocket for a filter, or sew-in a filter, that's up to you. You also need to decide about elastic or binding to secure your mask when wearing, and if you want to use a nose wire or not.   Then get sewing!   Have you got any tips? Do you have a good pattern to share?   If you've made or have been wearing a cloth mask, why not share a photo of yourself in one? 💕 ... View more

Right around the world, there are laws and recommendations surrounding the use of face masks during the COVID-19 pandemic. And currently in Australia, there are mandatory mask wearing in certain circumstances in New South Wales, Victoria and now Queensland.   Wearing face masks may protect you from droplets that can occur when a person with COVID-19 speaks, coughs, or sneezes and may land on you if you are not social distancing. Wearing a mask can also help protect others around you if you are unwell.   You may like to read our FAQ on the wearing of masks for further information:Should I wear a mask?    Under the public health orders, a “fitted face covering” means a mask or other covering that: fits securely around the face, and is designed or made to be worn over the nose and mouth to provide the wearer with protection against infection. Single-use and reusable cloth masks both help to prevent the spread of COVID-19, if used correctly. NSW Health recommends cloth face masks are 3-layer, inclusive of a filter.   Tips on face mask use: Wash or sanitise your hands before putting on or taking off your mask. Ensure 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. Refrain from touching 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 masks after use and store in a clean, dry place.   If you're handy with a sewing machine, you may like to make your own masks but please ensure these have 3 layers for the best protection. These are quite cost effective, and you can wash them and re-use them. Or you may be able to find a friend, family member or someone in your local community who are making them.   Here are some additional guidelines about the wearing of cloth face masks: Victorian guide to making cloth face masks NSW government guide to wearing cloth face masks   Wearing a mask correctly   ... View more