Written by Kumiko Toya
As the coronavirus pandemic has led to a shortage of medical-grade face masks and people were advised to leave those limited supplies for health care workers, Japanese people started making their own face masks in response.
Within a few weeks, # 自慢のマスクを見てくれよ (“Look at the mask I’m proud of”) has become a trending hashtag. Hobbyists and artists across the country are uploading their works-of-art on social media hoping to brighten up the mood in these dark times.
If you are looking for some ideas, take a hint from these creative people who took face masks to a whole new level.
Imahamasukutsukuruhito transformed the popular game console into a mask.
Teddy bear masks designed by designer Econeco.
Mekabu made them for her 90-year-old grandmother who loves kimono.
Coordinate your fashion accessories to perfect your look! Made also by Imahamasukutsukuruhito
Talented embroidery artist rumi hand-embroidered Billie Eilish on her mask.
Masks made from rainbow reflective material by LIGHT FORCE. At night when illuminated by light, they show reflective colors at different angles, which is stunning and eye-catching. Perfect for nighttime runners!
A cute animal face mask created by Pisan
Toko made these adorable masks for her kids who love Pokémon characters.
A cool denim mask with a cat face. Designed by A
Pop idol Hinako's mom made a mask for her daughter that goes well with her traditional Japanese archery outfit.
A mask that will surely turn heads. Designed by plastic model designer Valkyrie
What a simple yet genius idea! Designed by tamagochan
Show your patriotism by wearing a flag on your face! Designed by accessory designer lilithcafe
A parakeet wearing a mask is quilted on a mask. Designed by Natwoe, a professional accessory-making and silk-screen-printing artist.
Designer Piyoko embroidered Amabie, a legendary Japanese mermaid believed to cure diseases. Learn more about amabie here.
Wisteria flowers hand-drawn on a mask using traditional silk painting technique. Designed by kimono-painting artisan Wasaisai from Kyoto.
Are you inspired? I am!
I made a Koi (carp) mask using the pattern from "How to Sew A Simple Fabric Mask" as a basis.
My Koi mask is perfect to celebrate May 5th, Children's Day (Kodomo-no-hi)! On Children's Day, families with boys fly carp-shaped streamers (koinobori) outside the house in Japan.
