Where to buy a face mask: The best options for creatives

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Before you think about where to buy a face mask, you need to consider whether you need to wear one. Advice in this area is a little conflicting – and that's an understatement. The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends that you wear a face mask if you are coughing or sneezing, or if you are looking after a person with COVID-19. However, the CDC, the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, recommends wearing a face mask if you are in an area where it's hard to maintain social distancing – in the supermarket, for example. Check the latest advice for your area if you're still not sure.

If you decide you do want a wear a face mask, then there are plenty of places to buy them. And creatives have come into their own by making all sorts of ingenious cloth face masks with different fastenings, features and designs. Those cool features are no good if your face mask isn't functional, however. It's especially important to ensure that your face mask covers your mouth and nose safely, with no gaps, so check the sizing of the mask before you buy it. 

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Also consider comfort – some masks can be uncomfortable around your ears, depending on the material they are made of. The best face masks are also reusable and washable. And then of course, there are style considerations. That's where creatives have got a little, well, creative. 

Read on for our best face mask options. And if you're feeling inspired to give creating your own face mask a go, then also see our guide to making your own face mask, at the end of this list (jump to how to make a face mask here). 

Where to buy a face mask: US

Where to buy a face mask: UK

How to make your own face mask

Making your own face mask is a viable alternative to purchasing a cloth one if you are a keen sewer – and even if you're not, it's a good chance to learn. Below are a few steps to follow to ensure you make the best mask possible. Note that the same as above applies, we are not saying that these face masks will necessarily protect you and other people, and the recommended hand washing and social distancing measures should still be followed:

• Find the right fabric: You can buy fabric on Amazon.com or Amazon.co.uk . You won't need a huge amount per face mask – the CDC recommends 10 x 6-inches per mask, or 25.4 x 15.24cm. Some pre-cut fabric squares will be big enough for this
• Find a pattern you like: The CDC has a pattern for making your own face masks here, and includes options to making bandanas and a quick T-shirt face covering. There are also plenty of alternative patterns about, including this one from Trend Patterns (video below).
• Consider adapting the pattern: You may want to adapt the pattern to better suit you or whoever you're making the mask for. Consider using wire to make the mask stiffer, and how comfortable and effective the elastic, string, ribbon or twine you're using will be.

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