Face masks are becoming a much more familiar sight as part of the 'new normal', as certain lockdown restrictions begin to ease across the world. Masks are in short supply (you can still find stock in our where to buy a face mask guide), so many have taken to creating their own. That's exactly what Colarado-based artist Stephanie Hook has done – although her invention is a little more magical than most.
In a video posted to her TikTok page, Hook appears to be wearing a simple, black face mask – until it slowly transforms into a rich illustration of the Marauder's Map from the Harry Potter franchise. Fans will know that this secret map of Hogwarts is activated with the words: "I solemnly swear that I am up to no good". But activating Hook's map is even easier – you simply have to breathe.
- Looking for masks for little ones? Check out where to buy kids' face masks right now, and check out these
Hook's first video has so far gained over 400,000 likes, leading her to put the masks (available in adult or child sizes) up for sale via her web shop (opens in new tab). Although currently sold out, more stock will arrive at 5pm MT on 29 May. If you can't wait until then, there are plenty of fun and stylish options available below.
Where to buy face masks: quick links
- Etsy.co.uk (opens in new tab) – handmade face masks from just £3.99
- Buff (opens in new tab) – stylish face coverings at low prices
- HYPE (opens in new tab) – get three face masks for £24.99 with 100% of profits for the NHS
- Ebay.co.uk (opens in new tab) – washable face masks at a bargain price
- Disney (opens in new tab) – Exclusive sets of your favourite Disney characters. $19.99 for four
- Vistaprint (opens in new tab): Kids and adults face masks for $18/$13
- Etsy.com (opens in new tab) – patterned face masks for as a little at $4
- Los Angeles Apparel (opens in new tab) - 3 adjustable face masks for only $30
- Sock Fancy (opens in new tab) – funky face masks for only $12
"I try to bring imagination to life in the creation of my products," Hook told Insider (opens in new tab), "ensuring that they are not one-dimensional items". It can take over 17 hours to create a single mask, although the majority of this time is spent waiting for the non-toxic, heat activated pigments to set into the fabric. We'd say it's worth the effort – this is the first transforming design we've seen, and it looks like magic to us.
Hook's masks will only be available in a "very limited quantity", but even if you don't manage to snap one up, hopefully Hook's ingenuity has inspired you to unleash some creativity of your own. If that's the case, make sure you check out our guide to how to make a face mask.
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