Converting a fabric collection into masks for civic-minded people

Boxes of fabric, put to good use

When I lived in London, I got the idea to start making fabric artwork. I studied art at university and was particularly interested in how the creative work of generations of women had been called ‘craft’ when so many tapestries and quilts were actually magnificent works of art, and it was often the only way they were allowed to express themselves. I also loved both the pointillists and graphic artists and thought it would be striking to create large pop art portraits from multiple patterns and colours and sell them as artworks, not craft. So, I started making hand-sewn fabric artwork stretched onto canvasses. I exhibited my work in a few galleries and still make the occasional commission. To see more, go to my art page.

Making fabric artwork also started a compulsive habit of buying fabric in almost every country and when I moved from the UK to Australia, I moved my fabrics with me. When the pandemic hit and masks became compulsory in Melbourne, I realised I could put that fabric to even better use.

How I make my masks

I make masks from 3 layers of cotton cut from a pattern I have adapted from the Internet; 2 layers of a plain cotton and an outer layer of patterned fabric. Because of the lack of mask supplies in Melbourne, I purchase and cut open (brand new) disposable medical masks and take out the nose wire and straps, because they are reusable and useful. Then I put them all together with a combination of machine sewing and some hand sewing, throw them into the washing machine at 60° and then into the tumble dryer, before ironing them and posting them. Each of these steps is done after I have sanitised my hands.

The results

I am not a professional manufacturer, but the results are certainly fit for purpose:

• 3 layers of cotton

• Nose wire inside

• Elasticated ear loops

• One size (5in from top to bottom, 7in from side to side - up to 15in when both earloops are stretched out).

The masks are a more sustainable solution than disposable masks and the patterns and variety make pandemic life a little more cheerful.

Ordering masks

This is a slower process than full time retailers. I make up small batches of masks (no more than 5). Although it only takes half a day to make 5 masks, depending on when you order, it can take up to a week to get the masks made around my work schedule and delivery times vary depending on location and because of current pandemic postal delays. That means that from order to delivery it can take between 5 - 15 days to receive your masks. I charge AU$10 a mask and postage is charged on top of that.

Step 1: choose a fabric

Fabrics are limited; I have metres of some and much less of others. As fabric is used up, I will remove them. Choose the fabrics you like from the 75 options below.

Step 2: send me a message

Let me know which fabrics you like and how many masks you want of each and where you want your masks to be sent to. Again, I don’t make more than 5 in one batch. Payment can be sent to my bank account, which I will provide when you get in touch as well as expected timings:

Step 3: Enjoy your masks

We have a responsibility to help one another and our civic infrastructure to survive and thrive. Put up a hook or two near your door to remind yourself to pop on your mask when you leave your front door. Wear them, wash them, reuse them and enjoy a little colour and variety as we navigate this together.