"There are so many people out of work and they can't afford to pay $15 to $30 for a mask online, and those masks don't always have the three layers,"she said.

She took the masks to the Red Cross store where she volunteers and they soon flew off the shelf.

Fellow volunteers have stepped in to create a production line and help meet the demand.

"We're charging $7 for a mask, and if you've got a family of four, at $7 each it's affordable," Ms Miller said.

"It's helping people and at the same time it's bringing in some money for the Red Cross."

The masks come in a range of sizes, colours and patterns to suit men, women and children.

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Each mask has three layers and comes with a pocket to add a filter. The store has ordered filters so it can offer customers the whole package.

It takes about 20 minutes for Ms Miller to make a mask and a lot less if the material has already been cut out and is ready to be sewn.

Read more: Masked up and shopping in Maitland

She isn't a beginner when it comes to the sewing machine. She has been sewing for years and enjoys making patchwork quilts and making things for her grandchildren.

She knits as well and makes a lot of Trauma Teddies for the Red Cross.

"I've sewn a lot of my life, it's a hobby and if it can help other people then it is a win-win all around. It's a goodwill gesture to help get people in a mask.

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