Trial and Error

Last week, along with my mini HST's, I made masks.  Isn't everyone?  There is so much (conflicting) information on masks right now.  I finished up the few rectangular ones I had cut the previous week.  These had contrasting binding so someone using the mask can identify front/back if they took it off temporarily (see lower right of photo).  Then I started trying various fitted mask patterns.

Between the standard rectangular masks and the fitted masks we quickly learned that one-size-fits-all is not true.  The pleated masks and some fitted ones fit me, but did not fit Rob. 

I also discovered that some worked fine for me without a wire nose band and others did not.  I prefer the elastic around the ears, but that turns out to be particularly tricky depending on ear shape and the thickness of the elastic.  I can keep tinkering with the masks we're using, but it made it hard to make some for friends and family (since I can't custom fit them).

When I started to make these, quilting cloth was enough.  In the last week, though, the latest articles suggest a paper filter in between the fabric is better.  I could easily modify the pleated ones to accompany that, but the fitted ones were as is.

I finally hit upon a combo I liked:  fitted, with sewn in elastic, wire nose, channels up the side to allow for ties, and a possibly a way to allow for a filter.  Then I found this pattern that does almost all that (including being able to remove the nose wire):  Craft Passion Face Mask.  Right now all of my masks are reversible, but a fitted mask with filter slots will have a distinct front and back.

As for wire - someone suggested the metal twists from a coffee bag.  It's flat, fairly stiff so it keeps its shape.  Luckily I have a bunch of those from the tea I get as well. 

I'm rapidly running out of elastic, so I may be moving to ties regardless.  Figures I get the hang of it as I finish up the bunch I've promised to people.