Dipping into my stash of fabric scraps and old linen, I was able to fashion a washable mask for myself. I will let those on the front lines have the real deal, whatever I use for brief outings to the supermarket or other places of commerce don't have to be as compliant. This particular piece was constructed using stained linen napkins, a scrap of fabric and a length of elastic from a headband that I wasn't getting much use out of. I can let this soak in hot soapy water for ten minutes, rinse, then hang to dry.
Each mask is double sided for two-ply coverage. I don't use any real particular pattern and my sewing skills are sub-par at best. However, when I have been out shopping, others are wearing masks too. I do think this is important. Even if it doesn't completely protect me, if it keeps my respiratory output off others, then it's a good thing to do. I also bring latex gloves out with me as I've noticed most grocery stores I frequent don't have sanitizing wipes. Sometimes I will pop in the bathroom and grab a paper towel and douse it with the foam kind of sanitizer -- but even that is getting harder to find.
I decided to whip up a more stylish version too. This is backed with burgundy material from a pillow case we no longer use. The bling was cut from the collar of a shirt I decided to stop wearing because of a stain I could not remove.
We have a friend who is immune compromised and I made her two masks. I dropped them through her mail slot and texted her once I got home.
Is anyone else using a mask in public? Has anyone made their own?
I use a mask every single time I am out and about. I got it from a table at CVS during some sort of wellness event. I only got five, one at a time on different trips. One person commented on my blog that I was selfish. Another said I wasted gas going in so many times. Of course, I never posted those comments...lol.
ReplyDeleteI wear nitrile gloves. Before anyone even mentioned the virus coming to the US, I bought two packages. Then, the nurse gave me about 18. I must admit to using them more than once. I use a Lysol wipe on them between uses. I will make some, but my machine is not yet in place.
I meant to say that I LOVE your mask with the bling. You could start a fad with those.
DeleteThank you! I have a friend who offered my some of her stash of protective gloves. They have a case of them which they've had for a while -- protection while pumping gas, and also used to keep hands clean when handling RV sewer hoses.
DeleteI love that you blinged your mask. I am rarely going out and only to pharmacies, did grocery pickup. I do not have a mask but am super careful
ReplyDeleteI am trying to go out as infrequently as possible. My neighbor is a first responder and he has been exposed, but was well protected on his call. His patient had COPD and sadly is one of the fatalities (he's actually transported a few cases). He doesn't think casual masks will offer any real protection, but I'm willing to take the extra step.
DeleteI think of the clerks and service people (like my guy) on the front line/public facing sector, and that at least sends a message that you care about avoiding transmitting anything to them.
Every little bit helps to protect you and others. After all, a mask cannot hurt. Did you read the post on my blog about how tshirt fabric can be really protective, like 97%. I believe.
DeleteThat's a great make, loving the bling!
ReplyDeleteI think the advantage of wearing a mask isn't that it prevents catching anything, it's a reminder not to touch your face. Stay safe! xxx
It basically keeps me from exhaling on others, while making a fashion statement at the same time!
DeleteI have not gone that far yet, however I have a pattern for making one. I cannot sew very well, unfortunately.
ReplyDeleteMany of mine are open on the top (they are two ply) so I can side in gauze or surgical pads as extra protection. I looked at what other people were doing and tweaked it a bit for my own use. Hey, it's a way to pass the time!
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