I made 4 face masks yesterday.
Add that to the list of things I never thought I’d find myself saying.
But, given the new recommendations that we all wear face coverings when we go out in public I decided it was time. I basically followed this pattern and instructions. If you have basic sewing skills it’s simple enough. A few things to note:
- I used quilting fabric from my stash. The masks are 2 layers and I used a different layer for the lining so that we know which is the inside.
- I did not add a pocket for a filter. I want them to be comfortable and breathable and these are not meant for medical use.
- I specifically chose this pattern because I wanted a mask that hooked over the ears and didn’t tie since we both have long hair. (And mine is getting longer by the day, I swear!)
- I stitched a piece of bias tape on the lining so that I can insert a piece of floral wire to shape the top of the mask around the nose. I left it open on one end so that I can remove the wire to wash the masks.
- The first one took me about 30 minutes. After that I finished 3 more in less than an hour. Should we need more (color coordination matters) I’m sure I can reduce that time.
They are pretty comfortable. I didn’t wear mine for long but the elastic around the ears didn’t bother me. Dale wore his for the better part of the afternoon as he was outside doing yard work. It probably wasn’t necessary to wear it then but it was a good way to get used to it. He reported that the elastic was fine and it didn’t bother him to wear.
I’m headed to the library today to do some paperwork. I’ll be there by myself so I won’t wear it while I’m inside but I will be wearing it when I’m out in public and I hope I don’t feel silly. I hope, instead, that I have the courage to wear it proudly as I protect others.
Good for you, taking care of your family!
I wore mine yesterday. Not while driving, but I’m in my own car by myself. I didn’t have trouble adjusting, but I am tweaking the pattern because I have a small face and want the mask a little smaller. Be well!
They turned out great! So many people (here, anyway) are wearing them – you should not feel silly!
I would be happy to see you with your mask in my neck of the woods! Here is to each of us boldly setting a good example for those around us!
I’m making masks this week too. We are firmly part of history now for generations to come.
I had to stop in to pick up a prescription yesterday and EVERY SINGLE PERSON in the store had on mask! It was GREAT!
XO
They look great! I wore one to the grocery store this morning!
I went to the grocery store last week, wore my mask, and everyone else there had some sort of face covering. All the cool kids (and the safe, concerned ones) are wearing masks!
Our neighbor made us some masks and I tried it out the other day. Hers have ties and I didn’t find it particularly comfortable, so I may try to make some with loops (I don’t know if I have elastic, but I figure I can use ponytail holders in a pinch). The pattern you linked to looks easy even for a completely inexperienced sewist like me!
Good job Carole, I’ve made them for Al and I too. I’ve passed some out to the neighbors and grandkids also
I live in the city & on my daily walk I noticed an obvious uptick in mask wearing between Sunday & yesterday. But it is also virtually impossible to get outside without seeing other people here, so they are necessary.
I’m so happy you’re championing masks! I tried a scarf around my head yesterday and that was dismal! It kept slipping. I’m working on my neighbor supplying me a couple as l have zip for sewing or knitting skills. But – I love the blog!
I think your masks look great, and you are so smart for making and wearing them. Never feel silly for doing the right thing!
I just came in from the grocery and many people who were shopping and those working with the public were wearing masks. I think the people who didn’t are in the minority and they looked a little sheepish for not following guidelines (IMO). 🙂
I’ve made a half-dozen or so from a few different patterns… different shapes and different “attachments.” Since elastic isn’t shipping for another month (at best), I’ve tried a few other things, including stretched jersey ropes and I really liked them (and I have a TON of that material!). I went to the grocery store yesterday and wondered if I’d feel silly… and I didn’t, not one little bit. I wasn’t in the majority, but I definitely wasn’t alone.
??? I’m going to try your recommended pattern now. I heard on the news today that some grocery stores and pharmacies are now refusing entry to anyone not wearing masks. People will be scrambling!!
I’ve been sewing masks for a couple of weeks. My husband is a vet and he asked me to make some masks and surgical caps for the clinic to use, sanitize, and re-use to save the disposable PPE for our local hospital. I hope you didn’t feel too weird wearing it in public – I went to the store today and I bet 95% of the people had masks on. But here in SoCal it is now required. Stay healthy!
Thanks for the link. I made one this afternoon with a similar pattern. When I wear it my glasses get fogged up so not sure how that works. Love your fabrics
Well done! I sewed masks this weekend, too. I had to borrow my mom’s machine; my machine is having issues.
I had a tidy pile of 20 masks, and I’m sending some away and sharing with family, and the rest will be put to good use somewhere.
Come by my blog and check out the pretty fabric!
Great work, Carole.
They look great, Carole! My first batch is done now … I will say the last two went WAY faster than the first ones, but whoa, I don’t think I’ll ever be down to 10 minutes!!