Background
In February, as we watched Italy’s PPE supplies dwindle from only one country away, I searched the internet for sewing patterns pretty early on to find something I could make without a sewing machine.
Design
This
pattern caught my attention because of the different sizes already built into the pattern. One of my friends here had already sewn her own mask in a similar style, so I knew roughly what they would look like, and went on a hunt through the house for appropriate materials. The masks had to be comfortable, sterilizable, be able to be worn with glasses, and be able to be breathed through.
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| Screenshot of the pattern. See Resource section for a link to the actual pattern. |
Implementation
After more research on the internet, I identified a few fabrics that I could work with. I printed the patterns, then got cutting and stitching. With some old t-shirts, some microfibre cloths, and the nose piece from some dust masks we had at home already, I think they turned out okay for a first attempt. After wearing mine for a grocery outing, and experiencing more slippage than I wanted, I fitted an additional strap and a piece for under my chin. The end result is a three layered mask, made of recycled fabric, with a nose wire, bespoke for my face.
And with every time I mention these face coverings, I will add my disclaimer/PSA here:
As recommended by the CDC (eventually), covering your nose an mouth when leaving your home will help keep your own germs to yourself and remind you to not touch your face. These will not protect you 100% from getting the covid-19 virus.
Result
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| Version 1, following the Type B pattern. |
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| My nose support and inside microfibre layer. |
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| Version 2, with added head strap and chin piece. |
Resources
