Penang retired teacher transforms used, but cleaned, face masks into aprons, bibs and flower pot covers

Choong reuses remnant cloth pieces to create new items including patchwork bags, pot holders and blankets. Photos: The Star/Chan Boon Kai

Like many other eco-conscious citizens, retired teacher Choong Lay Khuan is concerned about the waste generated from single-use or disposable face masks during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The sewing enthusiast, who has been keeping busy with various upcycling projects including patchwork bedspreads and making tote bags using material from a faulty umbrella, then decided she would find ways to repurpose used, but properly cleaned, face masks.