Make your own Reusable Face Pads

Published: Thursday, 15 March 2018

For years now, I have tried to be more environmentally friendly around the house, by remembering to bring my own bags when I go grocery shopping, buying things in bulk whenever possible, cooking from scratch as often as we can, and switching to reusable snack bags instead of plastic re-sealables ones, among other things. But it wasn't until recently that I made the decision to be more mindful about the things that we bring into our home. Paying attention to our everyday routines, I noticed that there are a large number of products that we use and dispose of, often without even thinking about it. As I went about my day, I took mental notes (as I often do) and realized that a lot of these products could easily be replaced for other more eco-friendly ones.

Sustainability matters. I am fully aware that it's not always practical or even feasible to be green in all aspects of our lives, but it's the little things that add up and make a difference. Being more conscious about our choices and making small changes, one at a time, can help minimize the damage and maximize the benefits. And in my case, it makes me feel better about our lifestyle, reduces the amount of garbage in the household, and gives me an excuse to make things (often with scraps that I keep and never know what to make with). So it's a win, win, WIN situation in my book.

These Reusable Face Pads are one example of the changes I've made. No more disposable cotton pads for this girl. The flannel outer layer makes these pads extra soft, and the terry cloth inside makes them super absorbent. I keep a bunch of them on my vanity, and throw them in the wash after every use.

They are so easy and quick to make, you can whip a whole bunch of them up in no time. You'll never run out. *wink*

Shall we start? You'll need...

- scraps of cotton towels (or terry cloth)

- scraps of cotton flannel

- coordinating thread

Step 1:

- Fold the flannel scraps in half and, using a cup or other round object, mark your circles leaving about 3/4" in between them. Use a cup that is slightly larger than the size you want your pads to be (I used a 2.5" circle as a pattern).

Step 2:

I used a serger to make my face pads. If you have a serger, cut the flannel into squares, leaving a bit of a margin around the circle you just marked. Then cut a similar size piece of towel (as shown below).

If you'll be using a regular sewing machine with zigzag stitch, cut the flannel into citrcles, and cut similar circles out of the terry cloth scraps.

Sandwich the terry cloth in between the two layers of flannel, making sure they line up.

Step 3:

Serge (or zigzag stitch) around the circles, holding the layers together.

And that's all!!

Repeat the 3 steps to make as many as you need.

I should warn you, though. These little face pads are so easy to make that it's very hard to stop. On the bright side, they make a good gift. Tie a piece of twine or ribbon around a few of them, add a tag if you wish, and give them away to your family and friends. Spread the Eco-love!