Hello all: Try this when you unscrew that old oil filter off the engine
block.
Take an old cotton sock, cut the "toe-end" to create a tube.
Roll the tube into a doughnut.
Before you unscrew the oil filter, put the cotton doughnut over the
filter and push it along the filter until snug against the engine
block.
Slowly unscrew the filter about 1-2 rounds (loosen just enough to start
the oil drip from the filter: just the amount that usually makes a mess
by running down your hand, exhaust etc., etc.). If necessary,push the
cotton doughnut again so that it is snug against the engine block)
Let about 2-3 minutes pass (patience is needed here so that sufficient
time is allowed for the oil to soak into the cotton sock).
Slowly remove the filter along with the now-soaked cotton doughnut.

Tried this twice on two of my civics, and both times worked perfectly.
No more old oil splatters all over you.