Have you been asked to make masks for your family or friends? Our guest blogger, talented fashion design student Ashleigh Kok, had sooo many people ask that her that she turned into an unexpected sideline.

HEYYYYYYYYY

After sewing around 200 face masks, I’ve picked up a couple tricks that help me and I’d love to share these with you.

First of all, don’t get hung up with perfection. Make a prototype (from one of the many patterns online) and just accept that there’ll be some trial and error to start with.

On the subject of patterns, choose one with a seam down the centre front, as this will really help with fitting. Don't be afraid to make your own design changes - we're all learning and improving.

Fabric choice. We all love a vibrant, out there print, but will u actually wear it if it doesn’t match your current outfit? Thats why I make my masks reversible - this lets people have the choice of a 2 IN ONE! A fun bright fabric on one side and a solid colour on the other!

There are so many fun options at your local Spotlight store. I would recommend choosing from the quilting section as most of these fabrics are 100% cotton, breathable and perfect for a face mask.

Don’t forget to grab a little extra fabric of your plain colour to make a third inner layer for XTRA PROTECTION WOOO!!

If you cant find any elastic at ya local, as i know it’s currently in VERY high demand, don’t FRET. You can can buy some bias binding or make your own fabric bias strips and use them as ear ties instead.

I’ve also found this works well for making kids masks, as it makes the ties a lot more adjustable and stable for them as we know kids cant always stay still!

A top-stitched edge in a contrasting thread colour is the perfect finish as it secures the elastic or ties in and gives your fabric an extra pop! It also makes the mask sturdier and stronger so that it will stand up to more washing and re-use.

Cant be bothered to sew your own? Head over to my Instagram and shoot me a message to purchase one from me.

Stay safe.

ASHLEIGH KOK 
https://www.instagram.com/dreamm.girl/