What do you do when you have excess stock of a product that’s no longer useful to your customers? That’s the question I faced earlier this year when it became obvious that the mask mandate was finally going to be lifted in Hong Kong. I really don’t like the idea of things going to waste, and the possibility that the fabric and elastic from my remaining stock would end up on the compost heap, or worse yet, in landfill was awful.

Luckily, I had plenty of time to think and experiment earlier this year…and let’s just say, some of the ideas I came up with were definitely a no go! How on Earth do you turn small, irregular shaped pieces of fabric into a bag? Well, I think the answer to that question is probably that you really shouldn’t. But, I think, and hope you agree, that some of the ideas I’ve developed are inspired.

So, what did i come up with?

I started out thinking big! It might be a little quaint and kitschy, but I love a patchwork quilt. Unfortunately, the fabric pieces from the masks aren’t really big enough for quilting, and, to be honest, making a quilt might be a little beyond my sewing skills. So I decided to go with the next best thing - a fabulous appliqué cushion. With a removable (and washable) organic cotton canvas cover and a marvellously thick cushion pad stuffed with the finest organic cotton wadding, it will make the perfect pet bed, a wonderful floor for the kids or a meditation cushion. I’ve only made one so far, but I’ll hopefully be making more in the future when I can find enough spare hours. Yep, that’s right, it took me forever - hand teasing cotton wadding is pretty time consuming.

So maybe I needed to think of something a little more practical? What could I turn the masks into that would be relatively easy to make and useful for you? Perhaps reusable face cleansing pads?

If you’re resolved to be a little more sustainable in your life, this is a really easy switch to make. A great replacement for disposable makeup removal pads, simply throw them in the wash and reuse them again and again. Backed with a beautifully soft organic cotton terry towel, they’re brilliant for cleansing and make up removal.

When I cut them up, the shape of the fabric from the masks reminded me of a bow (work with me here - it might not be obvious, but I promise you, it does)…so Paper-Roses’ hair bows were born. I thought this would be a great way to use up some of the ear elastic too. I’ve only made a few so far, but aren’t they cute?

I’m also working on bow ties, head bands, lavender bags and paper weights. So many ideas, so little time!!

I’d love to know what you think of my ideas and if you have any others for me to consider - comment below or share on Instagram or Facebook - tag me at @paperrosesdesigns.