How to Decorate Surgical Masks

The influenza virus can cause mild to severe symptoms and usually strikes without warning. In some cases, the flu can be fatal, therefore many people are taking precautionary measures. In the past, surgical masks were seen only on surgeons, patients, and dentists. But times are changing. Surgical masks are becoming a popular trend, and people are using them to protect themselves against the misery of influenza as well as to express themselves in a creative manner.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Surgical mask
• Fabric paint
• Permanent markers
• Fabric markers
• Paper

1. Consider your personality. Ask yourself if you are naturally drawn to dark colors or bright colors. Your answer will determine the colors you should use to decorate your mask, since using colors you don't usually wear can make you feel uncomfortable in front of others.

2. Consider the colors that would look best against your skin. Light colors stand out on dark colored skin tones. Darker colors can play up lighter skin tones.

3. Decide if you want to make the artwork on your mask elaborate or simple. Practice drawing complex,detailed designs on a piece of paper.

4. Decorate your surgical mask with a medium that doesn't fade or run. Fabric paint, permanent markers, or fabric markers are good choices. Decorate the outside of your mask so everyone can see your artwork.

5. Create just the whiskers and the nose of your favorite animal on your mask.

6. Create a frightening image on your surgical mask, such as the grimacing teeth of a skull, bloody vampire fangs, or a green alien face.

7. Create a design on your mask that will make others laugh or smile, such as large rabbit teeth, crooked and rotten teeth, or a tongue that sticks out.

8. Create the puckered mouth of a fish on your mask or draw large, red, puckered lips.

9. Create abstract designs, such as swirls, crosses, dots, and stripes. Use bold and bright colors that make the designs stand out.

References

• Facts on Influenza