pictured: black and white scarf (old, similar here) / hair claw (similar here) / white and silver earrings / red puff sleeve sweatshirt /

The CDC has recommended we should wear masks to protect ourselves and others when going out in public. They do not want us wearing surgical masks as our medical professionals need them at this time. This means we need to either make our own masks, or get creative. Since I am not handy with my sewing machine, I am going to get creative!

In the above photos, I took a square scarf, and folded it into an oblong rectangle. This gave the scarf several layers of fabric for protection. In addition, it fit around my head so I could clip it with a hair claw. Remember in the late ’90’s when hair claws were all the rage? I bet you have one somewhere where in your accessory drawer! You can fasten it on the scarf the same way we used to fasten our hair with it; twist it, fold it, and clasp it!

In the above photo, I started out by folding the scarf into thirds.

Then, I took each side and brought them into the middle to create layers of fabric, which is added protection from droplets in the air.

As you can see in the above the photos, you take the back of the scarf once it is wrapped around your head, covering your nose, mouth, and chin, then you twist it, fold it, and clasp it!

This is a really easy way to make a scarf into a mask. I know there have been videos circulating the internet which show a scarf and two hair bands, but that version of a scarf mask falls off your face right away. This version stays put, and is easier to tighten in public, if need be, while keeping your nose and mouth covered.

The scarf I used is polyester, I recommend using a more textured fabric such as cotton or wool. This will stay put longer on your head. If you try and use a silk scarf, the claw will ruin it, and it will also be too slippery to stay put. You want something that will not slip off, so try and stick to a cotton or wool scarf.

Here are a few scarves, and a hair claw, for creating your own scarf mask:

In addition to going the scarf route, you can actually find really cute and fashionable masks which are made by artisans, crafters, and designers online. Here are a few of my favorites:

Do you ski? You may already own a neck scarf. Sometimes referred to as a ski mask, or balaclava, the neck versions are great for pulling over your nose and mouth. You can put it on your neck when you leave the house, then, when you arrive at your destination, simply pull it over your nose and mouth. When you get home, remember to carefully pull it off your head and place it in the washing machine. Just like a mask, it could be contaminated and you don’t want anything getting on your face, or shaken off the fabric and becoming airborne.

Here are a few fabulous neck scarves you can use as masks:

The recommendation is to have your nose, mouth, and chin covered. Remember to safely remove your mask without shaking it, and always wash it, or disinfect it, after each use. Never throw your mask away on the ground of a parking lot. Always bring a bag in your car to place the mask into when you are taking it off. If you don’t have a way to clean the mask between uses, keep it in a paper bag for 72 hours between uses, without touching or shaking it. This will help the germs dissipate. Lastly, remember to always wash your hands!

Stay safe and fabulous!

Thanks for stopping by,

XOXO

Cathy