Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Irish Mirror
Irish Mirror
National
Siobhan O'Connor

How do you make a face mask? RTE's Mary Kennedy shows simple five-step guide

Face masks are now a must as both the HSE and the Government are recommending we cover up in shops or on public transport.

Anywhere social distancing becomes tough to practice, the mask is advisbale.

Designers all over Ireland are launching ranges of face masks with couture houses the world over planning masks to go with occasion wear.

Masks are not just a fashion accessory, they are saving lives.

Cloth face coverings can be made from various materials such as cotton or silk.

You can make them at home using scarfs, t-shirts, sweatshirts, or towels.

Irish designer Helen Steele has brought out a range of sustainable eco cotton face masks.

Each stunning face accessory costs €25 with a percentage of sales going to the Jack and Jill Foundation and Homeless Period Ireland.

It doesn’t need to be designer, it’s on trend to make your own.

Former RTE star Mary Kennedy from 80s hit TV show, Mary Make and Do has made a come back helping the nation to craft their very own masks, encouraging the whole family to get involved.

2. Fold and stitch the top and bottom edges. (RTE)

The veteran telly star advises using an old pillow case to make at least six masks from.

She advises they can be reused once washed in a hot wash in any temperature over 60 Degrees.

Mary told RTE recently: “You need an old pillow case or elastic six inches long, a needle and thread and a scissors.

“It takes about half an hour when you’re making them from start to finish at home and I’d advise people to make about six of them.”

3. Fold and stitch the side edges, leaving a gap big enough to thread elastic through. (RTE)
4. Thread two 15cm lengths of elastic through the side edges and tie tight. Hair ties or string, cut longer and tied behind the head, will work. (RTE)
5. Tuck elastic knots inside the edges of the mask and stitch in place for a neater finish. (RTE)

As per HSE guidelines, a cloth face covering should cover the nose and go under the chin and fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face, be secured with ties or ear loops.

It should include at least two layers of fabric to allow for breathing without restriction.

You can buy them or make them at home using items such as scarfs, t-shirts, sweatshirts, pillow cases or towels.

For more see HSE.ie.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.