HOW TO MAKE A STYLISH REUSABLE FACE MASK
Until the rapid spread of the deadly coronavirus, face masks were not as common as they are now. Face masks were only considered doctors’ and nurses’ protective gear but not patients or even anyone walking in the street. However, this is not the case anymore. Face masks are now mandatory in many countries around the world. Face masks help to limit the spread of Covid-19.
Different masks are made with the particular purpose of protecting against infections. These masks differ in the percentage of protection and how long they will protect the wearer. Depending on your preferences, you can either purchase a face mask or simply make one for yourself. Before we embark on specifications on how you can make a protective and stylish reusable face masks, let’s know the various CE certified face mask types and classes in the market.
- N95
N95 is the most common and most searched for face masks. They stop 95% of infectious particles from reaching the wearer. There are different mask types of this N95 form, including the cycling-style pollution masks, disposable hospital masks, surgical paper face masks and reusable face masks. The reusable N95 can be washed and worn more than once, unlike the others, which you will dispose of after eight hours of use.
- N99
These face masks are similar to the N95 except that they are more useful as they are 99% protective.
- Type I, II, IR and IIR
These face masks are commonly found in the hospital for medical practitioners’ use. Unlike the N95 and N99, which protect the wearer, type I and IR masks are designed to limit infection spreading to other people. They work from the inside out. These face masks filter out 95% of bacterial and viral infections. Type IR has an R designation, which means they have a splash-resistant layer that protects from bodily fluids.
Type II protects more than Type I because they are 98% effective. Their appearance is quite the same as Type I masks; however, they stop infectious particles from the wearer to reaching other people. Type IIR is usually referred to as surgical grade. They have a four-ply construction with a splash-resistant layer.
- Respirator masks and valves
Respirator masks come in three gradings: FFP1, FFP2 and FFP3. Respirators clean the air that the wearer is breathing, unlike other mask types that stop infections. When wearing a respirator, you are most likely capable of infecting others. These masks, therefore, protect only the wearer.
FFP1 filter approximately 80%, and they are the most pocket-friendly respirator face masks.FFP2 has a 94% bacteria filtering capacity and less than 8% inside leakage.
The FFP3 filter 99% and are more effective than FFP1 and FFP2. Their leaking percentage is less than 2%. Unlike other masks, FFP3 lasts longer because it has valves that eliminate moisture buildup in the mask. Nonetheless, the valves still allow harmful particles and can still expose the user to danger.
- Fabric masks.
They consist of cloth masks that can be tailored or homemade. Many people prefer using them because they are washable, thus economical. Their protection is rated between 60% and 65%, which is quite low compared to other face masks. They protect the wearer from infecting others, but at the same time put the wearer at risk due to the low rate of protection. Despite this limitation, fabric masks are effective and protective if they have a filter pocket made with it. You can find a quality reusable face mask in your local stores or online marketplaces.
Factors to consider when making a face mask
- Shape and Size
Ensure the mask will fit securely, protecting your mouth and nasal opening. It should not obstruct your eyes or be too tight or too loose. The ear bands should also be comfortable and not too tight.
- Fabric
Use a fabric that is comfortable to your skin and one that prevents particulates from entering the mask. Check fabrics with smaller-sized spacing between their yarns. Among the best fabrics for masks include cotton, linen, wool, silk and rayon. Polyester and nylon are not favourable.
- Layering
Having several layers in the face mask makes it more useful for filtration. So, consider having two or three thin layers when making your face mask.
- Ventilators and filters
When making your face mask, have your filter between the fabric layers. Doing this will remove the chances of inhaling fibres from the fabric used.
- Fashion aspects
Many people would love to protect themselves as well as be fashionable. If you are one such person, pick a fabric of beautiful colours and prints such as polka dots or floral patterns. Another fabulous way of being fashionable with your mask is having a personal mantra printed on your mask. To be stylish, you can make face masks out of coloured fabrics that match your outfits.
Five simple steps on how to make a reusable face mask
- Cutting the fabric
Fold your preferred fabric in half having the beautiful side facing in. Place the paper pattern of mask shape on top the folded fabric, secure it with pins and cut. Cut the fabric after measuring the size that fits you well. Repeat this process with the lining piece of fabric(the liner is the inside material that’s in contact with your skin).
- Using a sewing machine, sew the curved edges of the main fabric with the beautiful side still facing in. Do the same for the lining fabric.
- After sewing the curved edges, you will have two sewn sections. Place the lining fabric on top of the main fabric sewed on step two and sew them along the top and bottom.
- The mask is now ready. You now need to have straps or ear bands on them. To do this, put the mask on a flat surface with the beautiful side facing down, fold the edges over by two or three cm. The folding will create a space for you to place the straps and sew.
- After sewing the straps on both sides, measure how the straps will fit comfortably around your ears. You can either tie them or sew the straps. If you choose to tie them, move the tied knot inside the previously folded space so that the knots are not visible. If you want to sew the straps after knowing how well they fit, put marks on the straps where you feel will be a comfortable length, hold the sides together then sew.
Conclusion
It might be costly always to purchase a disposable mask, and that is why you should consider making a stylish and washable face mask. You do not have to be boring and pick a standard colour used by everyone, be stylish and go for colourful fabrics so that as you protect yourself from the covid-19 virus, you also look elegant. Having a face mask protects both you and the people around you. Remember, it is better to have a reusable mask than no mask at all.