making masks
Monday, April 06, 2020So, chances are, if you sew, you are making masks. Or, you are thinking about making masks. I started to make a few over the weekend. Right now I'm just making masks for my family and friends, but I will certainly make them for a facility if I hear of any. I know they have strict guidelines for obvious reasons.
I think I have done the research and know exactly what it takes to be an ideal mask for this time.
I wanted to share where some of my favorite information came from and share some thoughts and tips from along the way. I am SO grateful to all the people who have put together Youtube tutorials and shared their tips.
First off. What I learned from The Fabric Patch is that fabric alone will not prevent Covid-19 from entering into your nose/mouth. Your mask needs to have some sort of non-woven layer involved. Luckily I had non-woven interfacing in my fabric supplies. You might, too. I'm pretty sure it's hard to get your hands on it now. The Fabric Patch videos give great substitutions for interfacing.
I've seen some people make a mask that has a pocket where you can insert something (like a coffee liner) every time you wear it. That just seems like another step I wouldn't want to have to do. Because I didn't have much interfacing, I purchased this from Staples. I'll let you know if this is a good substitution after it arrives.
I really like Mimi G Style video on Youtube. She shares her printable template, with step by step sewing instructions. Her template is for an adult size. However, f you are looking for other sizes, I saw this video which has template in 4 sizes.
If you don't have elastic for the head piece, The Fabric Patch mentions a few alternatives. I found it funny that one of the things she said to not use was yarn. ;) You can, however, use shoelaces, grosgrain ribbon, bias tape or even make your own strips for tying.
Mimi G Style does not mention a nose bridge in her video which I know is an important part of a secure fitting mask. The Fabric Patch recommend a few things that you can use to build this part of the mask. One she mentioned was an aluminum pan. I was happy to have a few aluminum pans. She shows you how to cut and fold and then sew through this tin at the bridge on the mask. However, I was petrified to sew through it with my old girl. I haven't had my machine serviced in like forever and thought this isn't probably the time. (Obviously.) So, I sewed along the edge of it and after a few (a lot) repetitive bends it ended up snapping in two.
It seems as if I haven't sewed anything in years, and was happy to use my friend to friend labels from name maker. They always make things look a bit more finished.
Stay home. Stay healthy, friends.
3 comments
you have my fullest respect helping others =)
ReplyDeletexoxo
franzi powder brows
It is really good way to make.
ReplyDeleteGreat ppost
ReplyDelete