Let's Make Some Masks
WORDS: CHYKA KEEBAUGH
IMAGES : MY OWN + PINTEREST
For Melburnians (and many others all over the world) mask-wearing is a MUST-DO activity if you are to leave your home. So let’s embrace it, I’ve done my research and found some masks that are easy to make and easy to wear because our family, our communities and our lives depend upon it.
A reusable, washable mask is my preferred option because of the comfort factor, the ability to wash and the fact I can mix and match designs with outfits - sure it’s mandatory but that doesn’t mean we can’t make it fashion! And by having a rotation of masks for everyone in your household, we can stay as safe and healthy as possible.
Want to make your own mask?
Let’s start with an origami styled mask, a little boxier in shape but definitely a fun one is the Aplat mask. Now personally, I’d rather elastic than a rope type tie but like all of the tutorials I have found in my search, you can make your own adjustments to the patterns. For those of us who wear glasses - I have read some very promising ‘no fog’ reviews of this mask as your glasses frames can sit on top of the mask to avoid breathing ‘up and into’ your glasses. If you follow this link you will find the free pattern download, step by step tutorial as well as the youtube video.
Like the look of a pleated mask? This style of mask is most like the disposable hospital masks with a pleated front that seems to allow a little more space but of course has adjustable ear loops. This style of mask is not as fitted as others, allowing you to breathe easier - search up ‘pleated face masks’ and you will find plenty of tutorials and easy DIY videos. This mask by Sarahmaker.com has a simple step by step tutorial, printable download as well as on youtube.
A more fitted style of mask is based on the Olsen mask pattern - a pattern created by medical professionals. This mask has a curved nose and mouth area, and also a pocket that allows filters. I found a great tutorial, download and video via sewshecan.com where you can download FREE (adult sized) Olson Mask PDF pattern here and the Download the free Child Size PDF pattern here.
The DHHS in Victoria has put out a PDF instructing How to make a cloth mask, with simple and effective alternatives if you are unable to get all the materials required.
You can also head to Etsy to purchase your handmade mask, or simply log on to facebook and check out your local Good karma page - you may have neighbours making masks in bulk, a local business who is selling them or a community project you can support in return for a mask.
GET CREATIVE WITH MASKS
I have come across some very creative masks on my research and some ideas that I just downright love. Not everyone has access to a sewing machine, not everyone can afford to stock their home with reusable masks, not everyone can access the materials needed for mask making - so how do we get around that? No-sew masks!
Could refashioning a silk scarf look any chicer? Olivia Palermo stylishly wears her silk scarves as a face scarf and I am totally loving it. I do have quite the collection of silk scarves and wearing them in this style with a warm, winter jacket is a sew-free option.
Got an old stretchy t-shirt you no longer wear? Turn it into a mask with absolutely no sewing. Jennifermaker.com shares her no-sew pattern with features on how to measure you and your families size, how to identify the grain in your fabric and a FAQ section to help with all your questions.
This no-sew face mask is a great alternative if you can't sew or don't have the proper materials. Anyone can make one of these, you don’t need a machine or any sort of sewing skills and best of all - it’s totally free!
This handy link from Timeout Tokyo shows five simple ways to make a no-sew mask from t-shirts, socks and paper towels.
Lifesavvy has also put out a very handy post including 9 Ways to make your own face mask even if you can’t sew! Including upcycling old t-shirts, masks made out of socks, masks using coffee filters and much more.
