Here are some time stamps if you're looking for instructions on a specific part of the mask. 0:40 *Filter/Interfacing* Needs to be non-woven 8:15 Non-woven interfacing (Most Pellon work. 8:15 she lists which numbers work) 911 Fusible Featherweight 930 Sew in We love 950 Shirtailor Midweight works. Sheerweight works, but you may want extra layers. Oly Fun. Use only cool or low iron with pressing cloth. from Walmart (some reusable shopping bags are made with this) PUL is not a good option as it's not breathable. (14:01) *Don't use* fusible web, fusible batting (not wearable) or dryer sheets as a filter. 7:50 test to see if it's breathable- wear it for 15 minutes. You don't want it to be so hot that it's uncomfortable. 12:40 *Nose bridge* Cut strips from an aluminum pan, add tape or interfacing to trick your sewing machine into liking it more. Hair clips 14:08 *Ties/Elastic* Headwraps (dollar store) Ties: Homemade or store bought Bias Tape (see video) This can add 15 minutes to your sewing time, so it's not ideal. Also, you may want to see a seam down each side. Grosgrain ribbon 2 yards per mask cut into four 18" strips Shoelaces (a bit stretchy) Twill tape Do *not* use yarn, elastic thicker than 3/8", and hair ties are not recommended for this mask. Her other Mask videos: *Make your own Face Mask* ua-cam.com/video/fySsaOojEVM/v-deo.html *The difference in masks: Which one should I make?* ua-cam.com/video/NnSL3J7J0_E/v-deo.html *Support the face mask making efforts* ua-cam.com/video/cvgkJCYRzDY/v-deo.html Face Mask Notion Kit for sale by the Fabric Patch www.fabricpatch.net/shop/c/p/Face-Mask-notion-kit-x48143749.htm Currently out of stock. *Useful comments* I've seen: Perhaps it's best not to top stitch the front, as the needle holes could let the virus through (quoting a comment that I saw- I'm not an expert, though!) The retention seal from a whole bean coffee bag can work well for the nose. Health care professionals appreciate different colors on each side. Also, from a computer, right above the subscribe button, you can click on the three dots which give you the option to see a transcript of the video, which I find helpful for searching through a video. Please like to make this more visible, and comment if you notice I left something out.
Heather Whiteley Thanks. Yes, I use what you said for the non woven water proof liner. I do custom machine embroidery so I have lots of backing that is thin and not woven.
@@kiki29073 I hope you've been given or have found an answer to your question before now. Yes, the printed portion of reusable shopping bags should be fine. If you are worried about a particular logo, see if you can breathe through it by just holding it up to your face. There are different styles of printing, so it really depends on which style was used for a specific bag - the solid layer of stretchable plastic that was the only option when I was growing up has changed to more permanent and lighter variations through the years. If you can peel the logo up or it shows signs of cracking, then it's one of the 'solid' types that wouldn't be useful in making a filter layer, but anything else should be fine. I hope you and those you care about and for are well.
Finally someone who makes sense and tells the truth about the materials! Everyone is making and selling masks that will do nothing but give you a false sense of security. Thank you and bless you for your hard work.
I live in New York state and we desperately need this for our health care professionals. I am an essential worker - I am the EZ scan attendant and service desk clerk at Tops Friendly Markets and will be making these for all our employees in the store. Thank you for this video; I never thought to use up all the interfacing and reusable bag material that I have in my basement. God Bless you - we will persevere and conquer this !
I am in Connecticut, I work at the hospital as a medical Interpreter. And we need them. I want to make some too for my coworkers, nurses, sonographers, etc.
As a former Army medic let me suggest that 3 coffee filter inserts ( trimmed to fit )will improve the filtering . If you want to kill some virus ,spray a 1% iodine solution on the first paper insert (let dry overnight) followed by plain paper filter next to skin . Iodine kills 99.8 % of all bacteria and viruses on contact . Just don’t drink it . We used it in (1960s) as a iodine / glycerol throat spray when nothing else worked for nasty throat infections . You can use 1% povidone iodine mouthwash as a source . Or 3 drops in 100 ml of ethyl (vodka) . Not 100% but much better than nothing . Stay safe !
Joe Duke Hi Joe, are the HEPA filters safe to use as they have glass fibre in. I have some at home I could use if I was sure that they were safe and would not cause another set of respiratory problems
@@ruthportway5198 Get the 3M Filtrete Vacuum cleaner bags - they don't have fiberglass. I read abou them in the comments under another Hepa filter/mask video where people were warning about the fiberglass in the hepa filter vac bags. e.g. I just ordered these. Good price and ship fast. www.ebay.com/itm/Electrolux-67706-Vacuum-Bags-C-Tank-3-bags-per-box-/283345585746
T-shirt fabric makes a great substitute for elastic since it has the same amount of stretch. Just cut strips ALONG THE WIDTH that are at least 1/2" wide. Stretch both ends, and both sides will curl to the middle. Now you can use it for the ear straps.
This is a very good, COMPETENT video. You are one of the only ones that is telling people they need a water resistant barrier, and that is very important! Thank you
Your attempts to do your very best with moment-to-moment updates, especially the extra info on your store's website, are amazing!! Thank you so much. We may all have to stay apart but this big community on UA-cam makes me teary-eyed. It's a wonderful support network in a way.
I had never even turned on a sewing machine before ths week, and have already made two masks. I used the Pellon non-woven on the inside of the front material and on the material next to the face, thus four layers. I then did the match test (struck a match and held it 2 inches from my face and blew as hard as I could); the flame didn't flicker. So, that gives me confidence. Thanks much for your videos and God bless.
I got my first sewing machine in January. My boyfriend bought it for me as a late Christmas gift. I grew up with my extremely talented mother who sewed. I was the designer, she the seamstress, she was amazing. I know from watching her, not actually doing it. I want to do what you ladies are doing. My beautiful niece and my sister, her mother work in the medical field, in the ER, they are giving the biggest sacrifice and I want to do my part too. I am inspired by everything yall do.
Cindi and group have obviously done a lot of testing and research to find the products that work. I am at the point that I need to stop searching for ideas for materials. I will go with the ones she suggests. Thank you for all your work, Cindi. I have confidence, now, that my masks will be helpful.
I've watched many of these tried out several but never felt they were good enough to be really helpful. I believe you have come up with The One worth the effort.
Any mask right now is better than zero mask. Even for general public's use. Because people can remain asymptomatic and still be contagious: everyone should be wearing a mask. Thank you for your efforts.... :)
@@angesw7054 Anything is better than nothing, and if you encounter the virus while wearing a mask, you'll take in less of it. See that's probably why Dr Li became so ill and died, he had exposure day after day and therefore aquired a high viral load. If everyone wore these while out there would logically be far less spread. Many experts feel that's why Singapore, Japan and S. Korea have been relatively successful. Of course don't feel invincible, this is just another tool in your effort to stay well, you still need to wear eye protection, nitrile gloves, and wash hands well when you get home. Avoid people. Above all, take 5,000 mgs vitamin C (in divided doses) and 5,000iu D daily. Resveratrol and zinc and iodine too!
@@OceanFrontVilla3 Actually wear mask is necessary in public, but homemade mask will not prevent the virus at all. Stay at home is the safest way from infection.
@@angesw7054 It depends the homemade mask. If you're putting in HEPA filters for example, it's quite good but not perfect. Everyone should wear one as we do need groceries, we can't stay in for three months. In Canada we've been practicing social distancing for 3 weeks and many businesses are closed and we only got out for necessities. Those who live in apartments are at greater risk. The countries that are doing this are having a lower infection rates such as Taiwan and Japan. Masks help.
I am enclosing the nose wire inside a fabric tube. I fold my rectangle in half, place the wire against the fold, stitch across the ends and and along the long edge close to the wire. I them place the raw edge on the top,wrong side of the lining and stitch close to the raw edge to hold in place. I then continue making the mask as before. Enclosing the wire ensures it doesn't poke through the fabric. I also am sliding a tube of flannel over the ear elastic to give more comfort. I leave it lose so the person can place it when it feels the best. Just a couple of ideas. I love your videos and am recommending them to everyone.
Great video! I am an activity Director in an assisted living and I am planning on having my residents help make masks to donate to our local hospitals. I knew that interfacing would make a good barrier, thanks for confirming!
The 3/8 inch elastic will work if you go top to top & bottom to bottom. In other words, the elastic goes around the head, not the ears. I use 14" on the top & 14" on the bottom.
To make the nose clips, I used disposable metal cookie sheets, but here's the twist. I cut the edge off the cookie sheet, then cut the sheet into long strips 1/2" long. Next I cut the long strips into three sizes, 4 1/2" long for large, 3 1/2" long or med., and 2 1/2" long for small patterns. Then I folded each strip in half long ways. Next I took the back of a spoon and flattened out the aluminum to make a nice smooth strip! I also used a plastic balloon holder to flatten out the strips. These are less bulky, bend easily and can be sewn into place! Thank you, B. Allison
Great idea! Also, no printer? Adjust zoom on monitor until size matches with a ruler, and trace onto paper. Backlit monitor makes tracing easy. For zoom, open in Adobe (free) by saving where you can find it, open Adobe, open file. But, in most .pdf viewers you can type numbers for zoom until it's perfect. Note: it says to ADD 1/4" seam allowance. Instead I zoomed until the 2" scale was 2.5" (2 1/2") wide so that my traced pattern would have an extra 1/4" all around. For me the zoom worked at 103%. I hope this helps!!
Great.video Cindi! You know your stuff! People need to know that you were a nurse practitioner. You have great sewing and science backgrounds to be a trusted source!
Lots of great info!! I have found that t-shirt yarn works great for head ties. It's soft and stretchy!!! You can make your own if you can't buy it with old t-shirts!
With elastic being so hard to find right now I'm using acrylic yarn. I know it's mentioned here as not something that would work but I've had excellent luck using an acrylic yarn crocheted in a chain that's attached to the sleep mask I've worn every night for several years. Simply leave a tail of about 6 inches on each end of the chain with a 25-35 chain length in the middle. Run the chain through the casing and let the person who will be wearing the mask adjust the length and tie it off. They can then pull the knot through the casing to hide it. According to an online source, acrylic yarn washes well and the chained yarn allows a comfortable stretch around the ears. You can also use different colors to match the mask if you like. I tested this on both myself and my husband (whose face is a bit larger than mine) and it works well.
Thank you so very much for the tips and ideas and what NOT to use! I am making a few for myself now. I had over 4 months of chemo and then cancer surgery on March 5. I feel pretty good and I want to stay that way! Stay safe❤️
Head bands with a button on each side, so the loops go over the buttons, NOT behind the ears, are MUCH more comfortable. The back of your ears get very sore after wearing ear loops for a day or two. Head bands (like a folded bandana, either tied or elasticated at the back of head, just at the hairline) work well if made to measure and really fit the wearer, so the buttons are in the right place to hold the mask, while holding the headband firmly but comfortably in place! It is tricky to make a “one size fits all” ‘cos of the button placement.
I watched one of your previous videos for making a face mask and decided to try it myself. It was an great experience especially learning to to make my first project on a sewing machine. I was very interested especially when you put the link to the Jesse pattern by a scientific guy. Funny because my name is Jesse and making a face mask using the Jesse pattern was very satisfying. Just wanted to thank you. It also got my wife making masks for friends and family. I think she was jealous cause I make such a cool sequin face mask that everyone compliments me on. Thanks again for sharing...
Pass this along to anyone making masks, please. A local nurse says the fabric should be different on inside and outside so they know which side they had against their face and which side faced the patient so they don't infect themselves.
So glad you posted this. I haven't made any, but what you said makes so much sense...I wonder how many people are thinking of this. If you wouldn't mind I'd like to post your comment on Facebook groups I'm in making masks. If you have time to join the ones all over the world everyone should do this.
@@demelzapoldark3035 yes, absolutely post and share. My aunt is an OR nurse passed this on. She is making masks for locals. I am all thumbs and do not sew, but happy to pass things on to those who do.
Briala Dulsanaya It adds a lot to the cutting and pinning time so many who are doing a lot of masks are making a design and putting the word “back” on the top of the mask. That works too.
If people are making a lot of masks - and dont have the time to cut and plan two different color sides, just mark the back of the mask with the word “Back” in permanent marker. Or put a design on the seam edge. That works and doesn’t eat into your production time.
Thank you ! This is the best info I’ve seen. If I could add something - I’ve also been making masks that have straps that go behind the head.. I’ve used the head bands like you show. They are perfect for that. I also use the thicker elastic like you show. As you say, it’s too thick for behind the ear but it is perfect for behind the head. So if anyone has that in their stash, it can be used for the behind the head style.
thank you so much! All of the options (especially woven type) you mentioned is what I struggle to find comparison information with and you have it all condensed in one clip! ( i have to scroll through 50+ video clips to find only a few tips here and there. Your video helped me so much! (especially at this time a lot of stores are closed already)
For across the nose I am using a 4 1/2 piece of the wire left over from our underground dog fence. It is coated in plastic and it is quite thin and works great.
I've just finished watching your videos on making a face mask. Your explanations, research and recommendations for the various components are most helpful!
For the ribbon, instead of sewing the ends, all you have to do is take the flame of a lighter, a lit candle or a match and pass the flame across the ends of the ribbons so they don't fray. Simple & fast. Thank you for all of your info! Stay well!
I emailed Pellon a few days ago and this is their response "We do not have any products that have been specifically tested as surgical grade and can be certified as such; however, we have been getting numerous inquiries on possible materials to use for surgical masks and/or barrier fabrics. The below are the most popular items that have been recommended based on customer technical questions with GSM and spun bonded versus melt blown properties. Thank you! 910 SEW-IN FEATHERWEIGHT 40 MIDWEIGHT STABILIZER 360 E-Z STITCH 380 SOFT-N-STAY 915 CAMBRIC Style # 360- melt blown Style # 380- spun bonded
I’m so glad Pellon responded with that. They could easily have said our products are not recommended for masks and therefore cannot make any recommendations. Good for them for stepping up in a crisis.
Thanks Michelle Chastain. Very helpful indeed. I’d like to find out what the fabric is called in the UK (mentioned at 4m30). If that’s what she recommends, that’s what I’d like to use! But I’ll certainly investigate the ones that Pellum mentioned. Stay safe.
I saw a nurse online that had sewn a button to a scarf she had on her head ,to help with the pressure on the ears from elastic, they hooked the elastic on the button.
Hands down, the most informative video on UA-cam! Your masks will be most effective if your heed Cindi's advice on these products!! Thank you for all your creative work - saving lives is indeed taking more than a village.....
I'm so happy I can help you.... I'm using panty hose for the ear straps and its working better than ANY other option, even better than the best elastic that is not available!! I can't believe how well its working! I just placed an order for a ton of little girls tights. Cut about .5" or .75".
I wish all sewists would heed your advice! I made a sample today with fusible stabilizer, then the outside and liner of cotton. I used shoelaces too, and a section of pipe cleaner zigzagged on. That mask was too hot for even 10 minutes of wear. Later at work at a child care center, I used a surgical mask when children were coughing and sputtering and after 15 minutes of wearing, I wanted fresh air. It too, eventually became uncomfortable to wear. So I appreciate your advice and I'm going back into my supplies for another sample run. The smartfilters web site I found that outlined the study you talked about referenced one layer of a cotton tea towel fabric as most effective after the real surgical mask.
This is the most informative video I've seen for DIY face mask materials. I had so many questions about fusible interfacing, woven vs. non-woven, etc. Thank you so much for the explanation.
I have seen nylons / pantyhose fabric cut in bands and used for a children's headband. once cut it rolls in on itself, it stretches and is soft. cut pieces about 1/2 inch but less than one inch. these bands can slip right over your head easily no tying necessary.
I have been using 1 1/2 inch loops cut out of knee-high hosiery and then stretched for ear loops. It is just stretchy enough to hold the mask in place and it's super soft so you don't feel it behind your ears. Also, I've been getting 6-8 masks out of 1 pair of 69 cent knee highs from the drug store. Also, LARGE hair ties...not the small ones like you are showing, but the ones that are about 3-4" in diameter that are meant for people with thick curly hair...work great for ear loops. I've made several using the ones that I had, but the couple stores I went to looking for more were sold out.
Brilliant idea!! I thought about removing some elastic from some unwanted hair scrunchies but there isn't much in there. But if desperate you could sew that together tightly back and forth again and again on the sewing machine. The hosiery sounds a LOT more comfy though, huh? Brilliant.
Cindi, your video has gone viral!! My friends in Yakima are watching it for making their face masks. You're doing great! Thank you for all your tips. I can't wait to get back into class with you!
It would be much more helpful if you stated what each material was or at least listed them in the description as well as list your website that you’ve mentioned for us to go to.
I went for a grocery store for my first time after 2 1/2 weeks. I wore a DIY mask. It was not good experience, I couldn't sleep thinking how many times I touched my face when trying to fix the mask on face. Your video is very informative and it gives extra ideas and information than those other DIY mask videos don't do.
I have watched a lot of videos on this topic and there have been a few good ones, but this is the best one yet. It is very thorough about protection, washable (except not sure about Oly-fun), wearable, and breathable. So informative about ties and non-woven options for interfacing. Now I can get busy! Thank you so much! By the way, some of the videos recommended using floral wire for the bridge of the nose and turning in the ends so it won't poke through.
I’m also making masks at home with 2 layers of 100% cotton. 3rd layer I sew with opening for the user to insert the filters they choose. Mostly I tell the buyers it’s a washable mask covers that I make which extends the life of the disposable ones.
Some good friends of mine are also doing this. They are happy with the results. I's a good idea - for places and people who need the extra layers or to be able to replace filters. I am having good results with the rectangular masks with pleats and ties. I made a handful for my husband (an essential guy :) ) with openings on the side so that he can replace the filters as needed. It works, but was a bit clunky. I'm now able to refine styles a bit, so practice makes for a perfect pattern!
@@LisaFaiss cut a regular t shirt into a spiral, it can be as long as you want. Once you stretch it out, it doesn't matter that its slightly off grain, and it becomes longer and stronger. (try cutting 1-2" thick strip, in a spiral, pull it, it becomes a rope)
Hi Sandi, I have watched each video now and have been circulating the last one to people locally. I am in the south east of the UK just east of London. Thank you so much for your videos, as a retired nurse I really appreciated you nurse/ needle woman explanations. I hope you own hospital and community appreciates all you are doing and hope that you will have mega customers once this pandemic is over. Keep safe, keep well x
Excellent demonstration for the micron size. Thank you. Things many people can source to repurpose as filters in masks: HEPA filtration material from air filters, vacuum cleaner bags, window coverings, pillow protectors, mattress protectors, pet car seat protectors, crib bedding liners. VERY IMPORTANT: PLEASE test your mask materials (and re-test if you use anything different) for breathability and excessive heat retention AFTER laundering the finished product! Shrinkage in the laundering process can change the breathability factor and the heat retention properties of your materials. Found this out the hard way.
My personal opinion is to stay away from anything that's iron on because it has glue on it and you don't want to be inhaling anything that has glue on it. I would personally only use sew-in type of interfacing
The glue is a plastic that melts when hot. Just about all interfacing is made of plastic even the sew it types. The question is will the off gassing kill you as soon as the virus would.
Just sharing my past experience: We used t-shirt strips for ties in a lot of costumes...they eventually wear down. Pulling and tying over and over, that raw edge, while it won't fray like cotton, it will eventually widdle away. I have a cabinet full of t-shirt left over parts from quilts and was tempted to start using them, but I'm sticking to sewn fabric ties for durability. Especially since have a large box of hideous cotton fabric that would be perfect for ties.
Health care professionals are requesting the colors on each side be different so they dont accidentally reverse it if removed and replaced on their faces.
As a public health practitioner and a medical provider I DEFINITELY DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS! these masks should not be touched by your hands in the first place and should be washed after every use in hot water and detergent to break down the fatty viral capsule. If the mask is removed (i.e. touched by your hands, it renders it useless to put back on again). These DIY home made masks are quickly becoming vectors for disease if people do not wash them after every use and follow strict guidelines. Also, no homemade mask will be able to protect from COVID-19.
Most of the time "oly fun" material is available in 3yd rolls at walmart and craft stores..it is same material used in reusable grocery bags..the apprearance looks little dots or matte like
whoa, you explain so much in making these masks, thank you. I was questioning so much when I saw people making masks but they were so loose I wondered how they would work. So thank you for sharing your knowledge with us who want to make a *useful* mask for protecting those we love. I noticed you even stopped & did a check near the beginning to let us know if it would indeed protect as person. So thank you for that. Looking forward to getting supplies and creating these masks. Take care.
My seamstress girlfriend had a great idea and I am using it for the nosepiece......get the 2" metal prong paper fasteners from Office Depot (you would use when creating a 2 hole punch in a folder). I only use the end prongs and not the base....it is too stiff. But the end prongs bend nicely. Wire cutters will sail the end prongs off nicely. I also create a sewn box around the prong to enclose it on the mask. Hope this helps someone!
Just thought I'd mention, the Shape Flex interfacing you mention in the pink roll is woven. It's on the front. I almost bought 8 yards but fortunately did my research first. The rest of your video is awesome!!!
I’m making this one! I have 3 others that are also 3D masks, but this design allows more breathing room, and also looks more stylish. Thank you for uploading! UA-cam recommended your other face mask video to me, and I immediately subbed your channel. Love your personality, and you’re such a wonderful teacher!
The Pellon ShapeFlex package you have says "Woven"....and it says "woven" in the Pellon demo manual thing too. Make sure you check for non-woven everybody. There's so much buying chaos out there that I almost spent a ton on the shapeflex and luckily looked more closely.
I save the wire handles from the rice cartons on Chinese take-out dinners. My husband uses them for all kinds of things, and I plan to try them for my masks.
Apparently tshirt yarn works well for ties and super quick to make. For grossgrain ribbon, use a lighter to melt the ribbon and it will not ravel. Zigzag stitch over pipe cleaners can also work for the nose bridge.
I really liked how you explained about the holes in the woven fabric and therefore the need for the non woven layer. Due to that explanation which made a lot of sense, I made a pattern where you don’t join fabric with stitching right down the middle of the mask and punch holes in the mask right over our noses and mouths. Instead, you (1)gather the middle third of the bottom edge to snug under the chin, (2) one small dart on each side edge to close the side gaps, and (3) four small darts for the nose section. I used your idea for using a foil pan to make a metal piece that I sewed in the seam allowance for the nose/upper cheek area. If you’d like my pattern, please let me know. Thank you!
The fabric she refers to is a non woven fabric, in the fabric stores you will be asking for non woven interfacing(not woven) it comes in different weights and also comes in regular or iron-on.
Thank you for sharing!! Something to keep in mind is: the hospitals are washing and drying these masks in a super high heat!! The oly fun melts and the vacuum bags will dissolve.. unless if you leave an opening for inserting these materials every time you use and remove and dispose prior wash!! I found the simplest way and they appreciate best is to make it out 100%cotton fabric and leave an opening and they are inserting the disposable masks to last longer.. 👍🏼 Now I have 10 yards of oly fun 🤣🤣🤣I guess I will make bags with it 🤦🏻♀️ 😁 yay ❣️Happy sewing ❣️
I saw a video for an Olson face mask. Many hospitals are requesting masks with a removable pockets for the filter. This will allow them to remove filters and insert new filters after masks are washed.
This is exactly what I can’t figure out! She says get the oly fun, but people are saying that it melts... I looked at a ton of different reusable bags I have, and literally all the material looks different to me. I Wasting so much time researching, that I could be spending sewing masks...
Just a thought but you could donate pre-cut filter inserts of the poly fun to donate with the masks. Make them with a pocket/insert so the poly fun layers don't get washed but removed and replaced after each use.
For nose bands I am using the flat bands from coffee bags, cut in half with wire snips. My top stitching channel is wide enough to slip the wire through to the center. I leave one side of the liner open to add more layers if desired. Am using cotton fabric for lining and outside.
Thank you for this series of videos. You have provided lots of informative do's and don'ts from types of fabric, interfacing, elastics, substitutions, etc. I live in Louisiana and in one of the parishes that seem to have a continuous rise in positive testings. There are three young grandchildren in my home; I have parents and in-laws with very low immune systems in fear because masks are so hard to come by; therefore, I take no chances when it's a must to go outside our home. Making these masks with your patterns and instructions are easy for a "basic sewer" like me!!!!
Very, very helpful. I’ve made almost 50 masks so far, and we’re starting to run out of notions here in Ohio. I’ll keep your recommendations in mind. Many thanks.
Cloth masks are considered a barrier mask. It's for the wearer to contain their own cough or sneezes. And helps people to not touch their faces. N95 helps 1st responders, nurses and Dr's to not breath your nasty air your breathing on them.
Wow I am amazed, of all the videos I’ve watched yours is the most knowledgeable and very informative. Thank you for all the advice on what to use as a filter, and you are very right I tried on one of the masks I made and I was having trouble keeping it on for long. The two layers of fabric was two thick because one was stretchable 99% cotton(a friend wanted black)and that was the only black I had around. I am making masks for my extended family and I would like to just sew extras and give them away.
Thank you so much for making a video that explains the types of fabric to use, this is awesome and so easy to understand through the examples you have used. :)
I thought it couldn't be fusible, that it only can be non-fusible or sew-in interfacing because of the adhesive. Is it safe or not? Thanks for sharing.
We use fusible interfacing, if you're worried about fumes that is, all of the time. Store-bought blouses and dress shirts almost always use interfacing and it lasts for years. A lot of that would be fusible to save time and errors in the factory. The fumes disappate though it will smell when you're ironing. Fusible has been out there for decades and is usually what people use (non is not popular at all except for very delicate fabrics, which is also why it's harder to find). Think about the collars you wear and those are right by your face all of the time. For an outer covering, get the cotton fabric with the tightest weave you can find (a premium quilting fabric like Moda or a quilting Batik fabric).
Suggestion for when there is not enough elastic for ear loops for each mask: Make your own STRAIGHT ON THE GRAIN fabric tubes to cut down on fraying instead of using bias tape!. It may take a wee bit longer to make but would last better, and probably be more comfortable! 1)Cut fabric about .75" wide and long enough to make ear loops for maybe 4-6 loops--but add 1/2" to 1" longer for EACH LOOP. 2)Fold the .75" together, w/ WRONG side out and stitch the long length, half the thickness of the width. 3)Put a long crochet hook or a wire coat hanger flattened out with a small hook made on the end and push it through the tube, hook the fabric back through the tube so the right side is out. 4)Cut the fabric ear loops 1/2" to 1" LONGER than your instructions length for plain elastic, to allow for larger faces. 5) Cut 1.5" to 2" piece of elastic and place INSIDE the loop of ONE end of every loop, and stitch across 2x to secure. 6) Sew one fabric+elastic loop on each side of the mask as directed. This would save elastic, and make it easier for the folks who wear it to adjust to the desired tightness with a safety pin or a stitch on the FABRIC part of the loop, but still keep the elastic stretchy!
Thanks! I'm making masks with loops around the back of the head instead of ears. I'm gonna try out your idea to save me on elastic, which is running low for me & can't be easily purchased anymore in the Seattle area.
I read a review that says among the cons to the Oly Fun fabric are: "will melt if exposed to extreme heat" - "You must be extra careful if you iron it. Use a pressing cloth and low iron heat" - "Must be air dried. Can not be heat dried" - These would be big drawbacks because I imagine the health care workers are going to want to wash them in hot water.
A doctor in another video says an autoclave heats to 240 degrees celsius. That's 464 degrees farenheidt. So, this might be a mask to wear on top of another mask to make that one last longer, but as the only means of protection, I don't know. Uniform service dryers can get as hot as 176 degrees Farenheidt. Household dryers today go up to maybe 135 degrees F. In both cases, the heating element and metal parts of the dryer will probably be hotter.
These may very well be best for just those of us at home. In Washington State all of the ladies sewing for the 100 Million Masks project were prepared to have their masks be a one-time-use disposable option. Otherwise the nurses who might use this for a day would have better luck, possibly, than with a 3 day old N95 mask that has been falling apart and in a labeled bag on the wall for days so it can be used and reused. Doctors and nurses were using staplers to repair the elastics on their disposable N95 masks. Things may eventually be easier for the rest of the nation (cross fingers and pray) but Seattle and WA State were hit like a deer in the headlights and the supplies were gone very quickly before we could get help of any kind from FEMA and the president (who still isn't getting masks, tests and PPE to the states no matter how many governors are begging for help). What you see on TV coming out of NY City is absolutely still true. They're using trash bags for gowns in the hospitals, reusing their masks, and even wearing their ski goggles or go-fund-me ski goggle fundraisers to protect themselves because there are not enough face masks. That was still the news as of 4/11/20. Problem not solved, so improving on this mask may be the best way. Those of us who may be asymptomatic or pre-symptomatic could save lives by at least wearing the best mask we can make when out in public.
Forgot to also say: these shouldn't be ironed ever--unless you're using Sew-In or Fusible Non-Woven interfacing. The Oly Fun is just plastic non-woven fabric. If you need to, carefully trim the fabric as most would do when sewing curves or darts etc for fabric patterns (clothing making). That will help the Oly Fun lay more flat and help it curve by not having so much bulk along the front seams.
Cowgirl I’m thinking I read Pro’s and Con’s to utilizing Pipe Cleaners. Making these masks except maybe the throw away ones is not cut and dry😬. We should be wanting to utilize the resources we have well, keeping in mind the safety of our “Front Line” people. I would love to see one place that those who are wanting to make these mask can go for updates current information and finding of what is working and any changes that need to be made to theses mask, for the safety of our precious team on the front lines😃. Probably over answers you question.
QBI Faith I agree to a place to gather the best ideas and updates so we can keep things usable and use less time, any takers on putting together a place with mask info updates. Susan Caple Colorado
QBI Faith I vote for you🥰to open the Facebook group, web site or both! You got the great idea!!!🥳We can invite experts like Paddy Robertson, CEO from Smart Air. Check out his 40 min. Video from March 10th. On his Facebook page!
You recommend the use of Oly-Fun as a permanent filter layer. The Fairfield is not clear about whether or not to was Oly-fun. In one part of the website they say washing and drying will degrade the material. In another area they say washing and drying may degrade the material. In another area of the website they say machine wash gentle cycle - air dry? Have you done an testing on how many times you masks with Oly-Fun can be washed?
Ok, so am I missing something? Will any of these substitutes affect our lungs? Wearing these interfacing and having it next to our nose and breathing and filtering thru our lungs are two entirely different applications? Just wondering. Okay, be affected by Corona or lungs problems?
Thank you very much from Australia. Masks might be needed for the very first time in July 2021 in my little state. I’ve held off making any as I’ve been paralysed with fear of making the wrong thing. Thank you.
With an actual N95/TB fitted respirator- it has to fit snugly around the nose, mouth, sides of cheeks and under the chin. Putting pipe cleaners in the top, sides and bottom edges.
I think the problem is people have nothing. So even the masks made out of t shirts are better than nothing. That’s the comparison that people should keep in mind. Shops in Germany are closed so we can’t buy things like that we have to use what’s in our home. And some support medical professionals even wear those pleated types with the air gaps.. so they can’t be that bad. As i understand from my sister (a doctor in U.K.) the virus doesn’t transport through the air on its own as in your analogy, it usually comes inside a droplet ball of spittle or mucus so that’s why even cotton is mostly effective. But I agree if it’s making people take more risks then that’s obviously wrong (for any mask that aren’t the proper ones).
Tin Coffee-bag ties that are easily pocketed. Sticky on one side to hold in place until the pocket is sewn. 5/8” FOE (Fold over elastic) is a great way to make the sides and top and bottom really snug. I found wonderful patterns on Etsy (piano keyboard, music notes pattern, and Autism Awareness puzzle pattern) :)
I have found that a 1 1/2 inch strip of knit material taken from a t-shirt and then stretched out makes a great replacement for elastic and it is very comfortable. Just cut across body of the t-shirt and then pull it tight. It curls up and is like a stretchy piece of elastic. FYI
@@tonibridge1 Definitely not all of them! If you get the better ones like Filtrete 2800 MPR (Microparticle Performance Rating) it equates to MERV 14 and do NOT have fiberglass. The lower MERV ones are the ones that are fiberglass and don't filter out near as much. Look for a 2400 or 2800 MPR filter for best results.
Thank you for posting this. On a related note, existing face masks can be treated with polyethelyneamine and or catechin, an African plant, to create an effective viral blocking mask; Here are some selected citations; "Studies published by Tiliket et al. and Catel-Ferreira et al. in 2015 demonstrated a cellulose based material for airborne virus filtration in which a low-cost non-woven cellulose material (Kimwipes) were chemically modified by coating them with polyethylenimine (PEI) or grafting in an antiviral agent; catechin." "The filtration efficiency of the modified filter media was first tested on aerosolized T4D viruses (Enterobacteria phage T4, Doermann’s strain T4D). Then the treated filter was inserted inside a commercial medical mask in place of its cellulose layer and the reconstructed mask was challenged with TD4 aerosols to evaluate its virus removal efficiency." "Both treatments significantly improved the virus capture factor (ratio of upstream to downstream PFU contents) of KW cellulose wipes and of reconstructed commercial masks when compared to original masks and to masks reconstructed with untreated wipes." Tiliket, Ghania & Ladam, Guy & Nguyen, Trong & Lebrun, Laurent. (2016) published "Polyethylenimine surface layer for enhanced virus immobilization on cellulose." Search for that article online. Polyethylenimine (PEI) is a polycation, which is readily adsorbed by the cellulose matrix from a 0.1% w/v solution in NaCl 0.2 M (ca. 100 ng cm−2). Further PEI adsorption steps at higher PEI concentrations induce a linear growth of the PEI films, suggesting that free adsorption sites still exist after the initial adsorption. The adsorbed PEI chains are resistant to variations of the ionic strength up to NaCl 1 M. "Promisingly, the adsorption of T4D bacteriophages are *15-fold more efficient* onto the PEI-treated fabric, compared to the native regenerated cellulose films, as measured by QCM-D. This confirms the strong affinity between the negatively charged viruses and PEI, even at low PEI concentration, probably governed by strong electrostatic attractive interactions. This result explains the remarkable improvement of the affinity of medical masks for virus droplets when one of their cellulose layers was changed by two-PEI-functionalized cellulose-based filters." Polyethylenimine is commercially available. This should be of interest to DIY mask makers.
THANKS SO MUCH! I watched all of your videos on making a safe mask and they were the best of any that I've seen. I made 3 using your instructions. One suggestion that worked well for me was to lengthen the elastic bands to about 9" and then I used a bra clip to hold them behind the head, (THE PLASTIC DISCS THAT HOLD YOUR STRAPS IN PLACE) instead of behind the ear which was uncomfortable for me. (I wear glasses) You can easily hood one elastic, and put it over your face and then hoop the other one. If you are not familiar with bra clips, they are very inexpensive and are available on Amazon. The clips tightened the mask just enough so that there were NO GAPS! ALSO, my Doctor told me you can disinfect paper or fabric masks by placing them in a paper bag with a damp paper towel and then into a 165 degree oven for 30 minutes. Most peoples' hot water is not hot enough without the addition of bleach to disinfect for the Corona Virus.
Here are some time stamps if you're looking for instructions on a specific part of the mask.
0:40 *Filter/Interfacing*
Needs to be non-woven
8:15 Non-woven interfacing (Most Pellon work. 8:15 she lists which numbers work)
911 Fusible Featherweight
930 Sew in
We love 950 Shirtailor
Midweight works. Sheerweight works, but you may want extra layers.
Oly Fun. Use only cool or low iron with pressing cloth. from Walmart (some reusable shopping bags are made with this)
PUL is not a good option as it's not breathable. (14:01)
*Don't use* fusible web, fusible batting (not wearable) or dryer sheets as a filter.
7:50 test to see if it's breathable- wear it for 15 minutes. You don't want it to be so hot that it's uncomfortable.
12:40 *Nose bridge*
Cut strips from an aluminum pan, add tape or interfacing to trick your sewing machine into liking it more.
Hair clips
14:08 *Ties/Elastic*
Headwraps (dollar store)
Ties:
Homemade or store bought Bias Tape (see video) This can add 15 minutes to your sewing time, so it's not ideal. Also, you may want to see a seam down each side.
Grosgrain ribbon 2 yards per mask cut into four 18" strips
Shoelaces (a bit stretchy)
Twill tape
Do *not* use yarn, elastic thicker than 3/8", and hair ties are not recommended for this mask.
Her other Mask videos:
*Make your own Face Mask* ua-cam.com/video/fySsaOojEVM/v-deo.html
*The difference in masks: Which one should I make?* ua-cam.com/video/NnSL3J7J0_E/v-deo.html
*Support the face mask making efforts* ua-cam.com/video/cvgkJCYRzDY/v-deo.html
Face Mask Notion Kit for sale by the Fabric Patch www.fabricpatch.net/shop/c/p/Face-Mask-notion-kit-x48143749.htm Currently out of stock.
*Useful comments* I've seen:
Perhaps it's best not to top stitch the front, as the needle holes could let the virus through (quoting a comment that I saw- I'm not an expert, though!)
The retention seal from a whole bean coffee bag can work well for the nose.
Health care professionals appreciate different colors on each side.
Also, from a computer, right above the subscribe button, you can click on the three dots which give you the option to see a transcript of the video, which I find helpful for searching through a video.
Please like to make this more visible, and comment if you notice I left something out.
Thank you. This is super helpful!
What about reusable shopping bags that are printed ok? Wouldn't the printing make it not breathable?
That coffee bag retention seal is a great idea. THANK YOU!
Heather Whiteley Thanks. Yes, I use what you said for the non woven water proof liner. I do custom machine embroidery so I have lots of backing that is thin and not woven.
@@kiki29073 I hope you've been given or have found an answer to your question before now.
Yes, the printed portion of reusable shopping bags should be fine. If you are worried about a particular logo, see if you can breathe through it by just holding it up to your face. There are different styles of printing, so it really depends on which style was used for a specific bag - the solid layer of stretchable plastic that was the only option when I was growing up has changed to more permanent and lighter variations through the years. If you can peel the logo up or it shows signs of cracking, then it's one of the 'solid' types that wouldn't be useful in making a filter layer, but anything else should be fine.
I hope you and those you care about and for are well.
Finally someone who makes sense and tells the truth about the materials! Everyone is making and selling masks that will do nothing but give you a false sense of security. Thank you and bless you for your hard work.
I live in New York state and we desperately need this for our health care professionals. I am an essential worker - I am the EZ scan attendant and service desk clerk at Tops Friendly Markets and will be making these for all our employees in the store. Thank you for this video; I never thought to use up all the interfacing and reusable bag material that I have in my basement. God Bless you - we will persevere and conquer this !
Lllllllllkjugda
Bless you! I am in NY as well and I want to make them for our Supermarket workers, Nurses, Landromat operators in my area as well.
Working on the best possible design & making as many as possible 🙏🏼
I am in Connecticut, I work at the hospital as a medical Interpreter. And we need them. I want to make some too for my coworkers, nurses, sonographers, etc.
Could you please tell me what I need if ok
As a former Army medic let me suggest that 3 coffee filter inserts ( trimmed to fit )will improve the filtering . If you want to kill some virus ,spray a 1% iodine solution on the first paper insert (let dry overnight) followed by plain paper filter next to skin . Iodine kills 99.8 % of all bacteria and viruses on contact . Just don’t drink it . We used it in (1960s) as a iodine / glycerol throat spray when nothing else worked for nasty throat infections . You can use 1% povidone iodine mouthwash as a source . Or 3 drops in 100 ml of ethyl (vodka) . Not 100% but much better than nothing . Stay safe !
TY 4 your service 🇺🇲
Thankyou ❤ and yes thankyou for your service!!!
Joe Duke Hi Joe, are the HEPA filters safe to use as they have glass fibre in. I have some at home I could use if I was sure that they were safe and would not cause another set of respiratory problems
@@ruthportway5198 Get the 3M Filtrete Vacuum cleaner bags - they don't have fiberglass. I read abou them in the comments under another Hepa filter/mask video where people were warning about the fiberglass in the hepa filter vac bags. e.g. I just ordered these. Good price and ship fast. www.ebay.com/itm/Electrolux-67706-Vacuum-Bags-C-Tank-3-bags-per-box-/283345585746
@@ruthportway5198 Not all have fiberglass in them, but I'm afraid that I have forgotten the name of at least on brand that has confirmed it doesn't.
T-shirt fabric makes a great substitute for elastic since it has the
same amount of stretch. Just cut strips ALONG THE WIDTH that are at
least 1/2" wide. Stretch both ends, and both sides will curl to the
middle. Now you can use it for the ear straps.
Great ideas
I use this also in my masks.
Same
This is a very good, COMPETENT video. You are one of the only ones that is telling people they need a water resistant barrier, and that is very important! Thank you
She never mentioned the fabric, that black stuff??????
I've watched a lot of these videos this is the most informative to the general public. Kudos to you.
Your attempts to do your very best with moment-to-moment updates, especially the extra info on your store's website, are amazing!! Thank you so much. We may all have to stay apart but this big community on UA-cam makes me teary-eyed. It's a wonderful support network in a way.
Love the visual on the woven fabric and the virus beads!!!It really makes a difference to see that!!!
Love the interruption at 3:06 questioning yourself...classic! But you carried on like a 'trouper!'....Well Done! Helpful video too, thanks!
8233Eire i would like to see the research or proof or what information they are looking at to say it will work just as good as n95.
I had never even turned on a sewing machine before ths week, and have already made two masks. I used the Pellon non-woven on the inside of the front material and on the material next to the face, thus four layers. I then did the match test (struck a match and held it 2 inches from my face and blew as hard as I could); the flame didn't flicker. So, that gives me confidence. Thanks much for your videos and God bless.
I got my first sewing machine in January. My boyfriend bought it for me as a late Christmas gift. I grew up with my extremely talented mother who sewed. I was the designer, she the seamstress, she was amazing. I know from watching her, not actually doing it. I want to do what you ladies are doing. My beautiful niece and my sister, her mother work in the medical field, in the ER, they are giving the biggest sacrifice and I want to do my part too. I am inspired by everything yall do.
You have a generous spirit! Just take your time! :)
@@carolc6141 thank you that's nice to say.
Cindi and group have obviously done a lot of testing and research to find the products that work. I am at the point that I need to stop searching for ideas for materials. I will go with the ones she suggests. Thank you for all your work, Cindi. I have confidence, now, that my masks will be helpful.
I've watched many of these tried out several but never felt they were good enough to be really helpful. I believe you have come up with The One worth the effort.
Any mask right now is better than zero mask. Even for general public's use. Because people can remain asymptomatic and still be contagious: everyone should be wearing a mask. Thank you for your efforts.... :)
@@angesw7054
Anything is better than nothing, and if you encounter the virus while wearing a mask, you'll take in less of it. See that's probably why Dr Li became so ill and died, he had exposure day after day and therefore aquired a high viral load. If everyone wore these while out there would logically be far less spread. Many experts feel that's why Singapore, Japan and S. Korea have been relatively successful. Of course don't feel invincible, this is just another tool in your effort to stay well, you still need to wear eye protection, nitrile gloves, and wash hands well when you get home. Avoid people. Above all, take 5,000 mgs vitamin C (in divided doses) and 5,000iu D daily. Resveratrol and zinc and iodine too!
@@OceanFrontVilla3 Actually wear mask is necessary in public, but homemade mask will not prevent the virus at all. Stay at home is the safest way from infection.
@@angesw7054
It depends the homemade mask. If you're putting in HEPA filters for example, it's quite good but not perfect. Everyone should wear one as we do need groceries, we can't stay in for three months. In Canada we've been practicing social distancing for 3 weeks and many businesses are closed and we only got out for necessities. Those who live in apartments are at greater risk. The countries that are doing this are having a lower infection rates such as Taiwan and Japan. Masks help.
What is that black waterproof material called???? Where can I buy It??????????????
I am enclosing the nose wire inside a fabric tube. I fold my rectangle in half, place the wire against the fold, stitch across the ends and and along the long edge close to the wire. I them place the raw edge on the top,wrong side of the lining and stitch close to the raw edge to hold in place. I then continue making the mask as before. Enclosing the wire ensures it doesn't poke through the fabric. I also am sliding a tube of flannel over the ear elastic to give more comfort. I leave it lose so the person can place it when it feels the best. Just a couple of ideas. I love your videos and am recommending them to everyone.
I removed the elastic on fitted sheets, that I was no longer using to use for the 😷 it works!❤️🙏🏻
That just crossed my mind yesterday!! Excellent thinking. (:
Raggedy Ann fantastic advice! Thank you!
You’re a genius!! I’m saved!
I ran out of sheets! lol
Great video! I am an activity Director in an assisted living and I am planning on having my residents help make masks to donate to our local hospitals. I knew that interfacing would make a good barrier, thanks for confirming!
The 3/8 inch elastic will work if you go top to top & bottom to bottom. In other words, the elastic goes around the head, not the ears. I use 14" on the top & 14" on the bottom.
This will work for kids too. I prefer to make the elastic for them as they need to be able to put them on by themselves.
Thanks. I have 1/4" elastic but not the measurement.
RAIVAIN BROWN )
To make the nose clips, I used disposable metal cookie sheets, but here's the twist. I cut the edge off the cookie sheet, then cut the sheet into long strips 1/2" long. Next I cut the long strips into three sizes, 4 1/2" long for large, 3 1/2" long or med., and 2 1/2" long for small patterns. Then I folded each strip in half long ways. Next I took the back of a spoon and flattened out the aluminum to make a nice smooth strip! I also used a plastic balloon holder to flatten out the strips. These are less bulky, bend easily and can be sewn into place! Thank you, B. Allison
Great idea! Also, no printer? Adjust zoom on monitor until size matches with a ruler, and trace onto paper. Backlit monitor makes tracing easy. For zoom, open in Adobe (free) by saving where you can find it, open Adobe, open file. But, in most .pdf viewers you can type numbers for zoom until it's perfect. Note: it says to ADD 1/4" seam allowance. Instead I zoomed until the 2" scale was 2.5" (2 1/2") wide so that my traced pattern would have an extra 1/4" all around. For me the zoom worked at 103%. I hope this helps!!
Thanks, BC Allison. I needed this info! :)
Great.video Cindi! You know your stuff! People need to know that you were a nurse practitioner. You have great sewing and science backgrounds to be a trusted source!
Lots of great info!! I have found that t-shirt yarn works great for head ties. It's soft and stretchy!!! You can make your own if you can't buy it with old t-shirts!
With elastic being so hard to find right now I'm using acrylic yarn. I know it's mentioned here as not something that would work but I've had excellent luck using an acrylic yarn crocheted in a chain that's attached to the sleep mask I've worn every night for several years. Simply leave a tail of about 6 inches on each end of the chain with a 25-35 chain length in the middle. Run the chain through the casing and let the person who will be wearing the mask adjust the length and tie it off. They can then pull the knot through the casing to hide it. According to an online source, acrylic yarn washes well and the chained yarn allows a comfortable stretch around the ears. You can also use different colors to match the mask if you like. I tested this on both myself and my husband (whose face is a bit larger than mine) and it works well.
NanaV77 try the Dollar Tree for elastic headbands. They come in packs of 12, colorful and 1/4 inch wide.
I'm using headbands from the dollar tree
That's a great idea!
Thank you so very much for the tips and ideas and what NOT to use! I am making a few for myself now. I had over 4 months of chemo and then cancer surgery on March 5. I feel pretty good and I want to stay that way! Stay safe❤️
Blessings 🙏❣️
KathyN Adding a prayer for you 🙏🙏🙏
Take lots of vitamin C daily in divided doses, 10,000 mgs is good, as this really boosts your immunity
Prayers, blessings and hugs sent your way. Stay safe.😍
Head bands with a button on each side, so the loops go over the buttons, NOT behind the ears, are MUCH more comfortable. The back of your ears get very sore after wearing ear loops for a day or two. Head bands (like a folded bandana, either tied or elasticated at the back of head, just at the hairline) work well if made to measure and really fit the wearer, so the buttons are in the right place to hold the mask, while holding the headband firmly but comfortably in place! It is tricky to make a “one size fits all” ‘cos of the button placement.
I like the idea. Can you give some picture, more explanation? Thanks
I watched one of your previous videos for making a face mask and decided to try it myself. It was an great experience especially learning to to make my first project on a sewing machine. I was very interested especially when you put the link to the Jesse pattern by a scientific guy. Funny because my name is Jesse and making a face mask using the Jesse pattern was very satisfying. Just wanted to thank you. It also got my wife making masks for friends and family. I think she was jealous cause I make such a cool sequin face mask that everyone compliments me on. Thanks again for sharing...
Pass this along to anyone making masks, please. A local nurse says the fabric should be different on inside and outside so they know which side they had against their face and which side faced the patient so they don't infect themselves.
So glad you posted this. I haven't made any, but what you said makes so much sense...I wonder how many people are thinking of this. If you wouldn't mind I'd like to post your comment on Facebook groups I'm in making masks. If you have time to join the ones all over the world everyone should do this.
Aluminum Pam's? What's this?
@@demelzapoldark3035 yes, absolutely post and share. My aunt is an OR nurse passed this on. She is making masks for locals. I am all thumbs and do not sew, but happy to pass things on to those who do.
Briala Dulsanaya It adds a lot to the cutting and pinning time so many who are doing a lot of masks are making a design and putting the word “back” on the top of the mask. That works too.
If people are making a lot of masks - and dont have the time to cut and plan two different color sides, just mark the back of the mask with the word “Back” in permanent marker. Or put a design on the seam edge. That works and doesn’t eat into your production time.
Thank you ! This is the best info I’ve seen. If I could add something - I’ve also been making masks that have straps that go behind the head.. I’ve used the head bands like you show. They are perfect for that. I also use the thicker elastic like you show. As you say, it’s too thick for behind the ear but it is perfect for behind the head. So if anyone has that in their stash, it can be used for the behind the head style.
thank you so much! All of the options (especially woven type) you mentioned is what I struggle to find comparison information with and you have it all condensed in one clip! ( i have to scroll through 50+ video clips to find only a few tips here and there. Your video helped me so much! (especially at this time a lot of stores are closed already)
For across the nose I am using a 4 1/2 piece of the wire left over from our underground dog fence. It is coated in plastic and it is quite thin and works great.
I've just finished watching your videos on making a face mask. Your explanations, research and recommendations for the various components are most helpful!
For the ribbon, instead of sewing the ends, all you have to do is take the flame of a lighter, a lit candle or a match and pass the flame across the ends of the ribbons so they don't fray. Simple & fast. Thank you for all of your info! Stay well!
Try the bag closures from coffee bags for the nose shaper. Perfect and wrapped in plastic already.
Tania Talbot omg I was coming to say this! I have been collecting them since forever because of sewing them into dust masks I’ve made in the past!
That is brilliant!
Oh good idea!
I was sitting here wondering what I could use over the nose.
Thank you! ❤️
Great idea except I don’t have any 😫
I’ve been saving those for years and am already using them for masks also. They are perfect for them!!
I emailed Pellon a few days ago and this is their response "We do not have any products that have been specifically tested as surgical grade and can be certified as such; however, we have been getting numerous inquiries on possible materials to use for surgical masks and/or barrier fabrics. The below are the most popular items that have been recommended based on customer technical questions with GSM and spun bonded versus melt blown properties. Thank you!
910 SEW-IN FEATHERWEIGHT
40 MIDWEIGHT STABILIZER
360 E-Z STITCH
380 SOFT-N-STAY
915 CAMBRIC
Style # 360- melt blown
Style # 380- spun bonded
Best Regards,
Amy Berg
Pellon® Consumer Products
4801 Ulmerton Road
I guess Pellon 911 Fusible Featherweight is the same as the 910 sew in, right?
michelle chastai
I’m so glad Pellon responded with that. They could easily have said our products are not recommended for masks and therefore cannot make any recommendations. Good for them for stepping up in a crisis.
Thanks Michelle Chastain. Very helpful indeed. I’d like to find out what the fabric is called in the UK (mentioned at 4m30). If that’s what she recommends, that’s what I’d like to use! But I’ll certainly investigate the ones that Pellum mentioned. Stay safe.
michelle chasta
I saw a nurse online that had sewn a button to a scarf she had on her head ,to help with the pressure on the ears from elastic, they hooked the elastic on the button.
I saw that too and I think it's brilliant. My ears hurt too after awhile, will try with the buttons.
You can add a large paper clip to the elastic on the back of your head. It will ease up the elastic around the ears.
could you please post link to video
It is just a stretchy fabric headband that you can find in Dollar Tree or Wal-Mart with a button see on each side. No pattern needed
*sewn
Hands down, the most informative video on UA-cam! Your masks will be most effective if your heed Cindi's advice on these products!! Thank you for all your creative work - saving lives is indeed taking more than a village.....
I'm so happy I can help you.... I'm using panty hose for the ear straps and its working better than ANY other option, even better than the best elastic that is not available!! I can't believe how well its working! I just placed an order for a ton of little girls tights. Cut about .5" or .75".
Great about the Dollar Tree Headbands. We have been making masks for family. Ran out of elastic, stumbled on Dollar Tree Headbands yesterday.
58markstep - I discovered these last week, and each one will make 2 ear pieces for 1 Mask.
Why use elastic when you can make straps to tie, you know like your shoes.
J Prsns - Yes, I have been making ties too with 1/4” grosgrain ribbon, and it looks & works great!
I wish all sewists would heed your advice! I made a sample today with fusible stabilizer, then the outside and liner of cotton. I used shoelaces too, and a section of pipe cleaner zigzagged on. That mask was too hot for even 10 minutes of wear. Later at work at a child care center, I used a surgical mask when children were coughing and sputtering and after 15 minutes of wearing, I wanted fresh air. It too, eventually became uncomfortable to wear. So I appreciate your advice and I'm going back into my supplies for another sample run. The smartfilters web site I found that outlined the study you talked about referenced one layer of a cotton tea towel fabric as most effective after the real surgical mask.
Yes, that was a surprising and interesting study. Who knew tea towels had such power?
Judith Collins and I saw people using flannel as their insert and that seems like it would be to hot to wear after a while to.
@@karenjames5063 I read a medical worker said flannel gets soggy inside from your breath, retains too much moisture
This is the most informative video I've seen for DIY face mask materials. I had so many questions about fusible interfacing, woven vs. non-woven, etc. Thank you so much for the explanation.
I have seen nylons / pantyhose fabric cut in bands and used for a children's headband. once cut it rolls in on itself, it stretches and is soft. cut pieces about 1/2 inch but less than one inch. these bands can slip right over your head easily no tying necessary.
I have been using 1 1/2 inch loops cut out of knee-high hosiery and then stretched for ear loops. It is just stretchy enough to hold the mask in place and it's super soft so you don't feel it behind your ears. Also, I've been getting 6-8 masks out of 1 pair of 69 cent knee highs from the drug store. Also, LARGE hair ties...not the small ones like you are showing, but the ones that are about 3-4" in diameter that are meant for people with thick curly hair...work great for ear loops. I've made several using the ones that I had, but the couple stores I went to looking for more were sold out.
Brilliant idea!! I thought about removing some elastic from some unwanted hair scrunchies but there isn't much in there. But if desperate you could sew that together tightly back and forth again and again on the sewing machine. The hosiery sounds a LOT more comfy though, huh? Brilliant.
Cindi, your video has gone viral!! My friends in Yakima are watching it for making their face masks. You're doing great! Thank you for all your tips. I can't wait to get back into class with you!
You can candle the end of the ribbon, so it melts and won't fray.
It would be much more helpful if you stated what each material was or at least listed them in the description as well as list your website that you’ve mentioned for us to go to.
aashly1O1 exactly!
I still can't figure out what that black roll of oly fun stuff is
@@miloekstults7926 you can get it at walmart
@@cindys1395 Do you know if it is washable? Should it be an insert that can be removed? My son is a doctor in San Diego sewing his own masks today!
@@cindys1395 but what is that I am going to be looking for? I cant figure out what are the materials she is talking about
I went for a grocery store for my first time after 2 1/2 weeks. I wore a DIY mask. It was not good experience, I couldn't sleep thinking how many times I touched my face when trying to fix the mask on face. Your video is very informative and it gives extra ideas and information than those other DIY mask videos don't do.
I have watched a lot of videos on this topic and there have been a few good ones, but this is the best one yet. It is very thorough about protection, washable (except not sure about Oly-fun), wearable, and breathable. So informative about ties and non-woven options for interfacing. Now I can get busy! Thank you so much! By the way, some of the videos recommended using floral wire for the bridge of the nose and turning in the ends so it won't poke through.
I’m also making masks at home with 2 layers of 100% cotton. 3rd layer I sew with opening for the user to insert the filters they choose. Mostly I tell the buyers it’s a washable mask covers that I make which extends the life of the disposable ones.
Do you have them for sale
Use cotton in diferentes way
| \ __ it's better
This's a way I do
Some good friends of mine are also doing this. They are happy with the results. I's a good idea - for places and people who need the extra layers or to be able to replace filters.
I am having good results with the rectangular masks with pleats and ties. I made a handful for my husband (an essential guy :) ) with openings on the side so that he can replace the filters as needed. It works, but was a bit clunky. I'm now able to refine styles a bit, so practice makes for a perfect pattern!
Copper wire doesn't rust after washing, and we are finding that a ribbon of T shirt fabric is working well for the ear loops, and is very comfortable.
Great idea!
Do you do any sewing on the tshirt material, or just cut it in strips and knot together?
@@LisaFaiss cut a regular t shirt into a spiral, it can be as long as you want. Once you stretch it out, it doesn't matter that its slightly off grain, and it becomes longer and stronger. (try cutting 1-2" thick strip, in a spiral, pull it, it becomes a rope)
basically you can get yards and yards of rope from one t shirt.
Thanks, I did this and it works great. I make my own T-shirt’s so have a LOT of scraps I can use. It works fantastically.
THANK YOU! This is the absolute BEST explanation and direction yet!
Hi Sandi, I have watched each video now and have been circulating the last one to people locally. I am in the south east of the UK just east of London. Thank you so much for your videos, as a retired nurse I really appreciated you nurse/ needle woman explanations. I hope you own hospital and community appreciates all you are doing and hope that you will have mega customers once this pandemic is over. Keep safe, keep well x
Excellent demonstration for the micron size. Thank you.
Things many people can source to repurpose as filters in masks: HEPA filtration material from air filters, vacuum cleaner bags, window coverings, pillow protectors, mattress protectors, pet car seat protectors, crib bedding liners.
VERY IMPORTANT: PLEASE test your mask materials (and re-test if you use anything different) for breathability and excessive heat retention AFTER laundering the finished product! Shrinkage in the laundering process can change the breathability factor and the heat retention properties of your materials. Found this out the hard way.
HEPA filtration material may contain fiberglass! Double check before using!
@@cathymcnaughton4927 One would certainly want to check all materials content before using, yes.
My personal opinion is to stay away from anything that's iron on because it has glue on it and you don't want to be inhaling anything that has glue on it. I would personally only use sew-in type of interfacing
The glue is a plastic that melts when hot. Just about all interfacing is made of plastic even the sew it types. The question is will the off gassing kill you as soon as the virus would.
If someone is worried, they don’t have to fuse the interfacing. It could just be sewn in.
@@DannyB-cs9vx exactly. Glue won't kill you. Now people just tripping.
Big G unit agree. I hot glued my wires in. And my masks are safer. You want that wire to stay on!! People ARE TRIPPIN
One cool the glue wont be toxic
Tee shirts cut into 1inch strips, then pull so it rolls in on its self make and easy tie.
Arlene Ball ..... best advice ever !!
Just sharing my past experience: We used t-shirt strips for ties in a lot of costumes...they eventually wear down. Pulling and tying over and over, that raw edge, while it won't fray like cotton, it will eventually widdle away. I have a cabinet full of t-shirt left over parts from quilts and was tempted to start using them, but I'm sticking to sewn fabric ties for durability. Especially since have a large box of hideous cotton fabric that would be perfect for ties.
Soft shoelaces may be an option. They are meant to be tied over and over.
@@bdazzleddesigns9219 oh wow that's a great idea
Thank you!
Health care professionals are requesting the colors on each side be different so they dont accidentally reverse it if removed and replaced on their faces.
user THIS is very important.
I wonder if a small plastic shirt button could be sewn on the front to mark the correct side....
I put printed side front and solid back
I saw a tutorial where they used a light color fabric on one side, and a dark one on the opposite.
As a public health practitioner and a medical provider I DEFINITELY DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS! these masks should not be touched by your hands in the first place and should be washed after every use in hot water and detergent to break down the fatty viral capsule. If the mask is removed (i.e. touched by your hands, it renders it useless to put back on again). These DIY home made masks are quickly becoming vectors for disease if people do not wash them after every use and follow strict guidelines. Also, no homemade mask will be able to protect from COVID-19.
There is good elastic in unused fitted sheets....and I’m cutting up the edge of those sheets...for the mask lining....great thread count!
You never named the black inner fabric how can we obtain it?
I was wondering the same thing about the fabric that she was talking about. What's the name
Oly fun is the name of material
Most of the time "oly fun" material is available in 3yd rolls at walmart and craft stores..it is same material used in reusable grocery bags..the apprearance looks little dots or matte like
uufuuuuf ididii8ejyhehehyjeu m
Thank you so much for explaining extra careful about the interfacing materials best used for face masks!!!!!
whoa, you explain so much in making these masks, thank you. I was questioning so much when I saw people making masks but they were so loose I wondered how they would work. So thank you for sharing your knowledge with us who want to make a *useful* mask for protecting those we love. I noticed you even stopped & did a check near the beginning to let us know if it would indeed protect as person. So thank you for that. Looking forward to getting supplies and creating these masks. Take care.
My seamstress girlfriend had a great idea and I am using it for the nosepiece......get the 2" metal prong paper fasteners from Office Depot (you would use when creating a 2 hole punch in a folder). I only use the end prongs and not the base....it is too stiff. But the end prongs bend nicely. Wire cutters will sail the end prongs off nicely. I also create a sewn box around the prong to enclose it on the mask. Hope this helps someone!
MaryEdna Parish were you using the pattern in this video? Would love to see a picture of how you did the nose part. I love visuals-:)
Would you be willing to make a tutorial with all the info?
QBI Faith Not sure actually. It can be inserted in any mask.
Just thought I'd mention, the Shape Flex interfacing you mention in the pink roll is woven. It's on the front. I almost bought 8 yards but fortunately did my research first. The rest of your video is awesome!!!
Melissa Rhodes I have it too in my collection... so why is she showing it... got credibility?...
Love Cindi's videos!! She gives so much information that is very helpful! Tutorials are excellent!
I’m making this one! I have 3 others that are also 3D masks, but this design allows more breathing room, and also looks more stylish.
Thank you for uploading! UA-cam recommended your other face mask video to me, and I immediately subbed your channel. Love your personality, and you’re such a wonderful teacher!
The Pellon ShapeFlex package you have says "Woven"....and it says "woven" in the Pellon demo manual thing too. Make sure you check for non-woven everybody. There's so much buying chaos out there that I almost spent a ton on the shapeflex and luckily looked more closely.
What about using a section of pipe cleaner for the metal nose bridge. Cheap and flexible, washable.
Coffee bags have a tie that is flat and strong. I plan on using them.
That's what I've been using...
Those are great ideas thx people
Perfect.
I save the wire handles from the rice cartons on Chinese take-out dinners. My husband uses them for all kinds of things, and I plan to try them for my masks.
Commenting to help the algorithm boost this video!! Thank you for explaining.
Apparently tshirt yarn works well for ties and super quick to make. For grossgrain ribbon, use a lighter to melt the ribbon and it will not ravel. Zigzag stitch over pipe cleaners can also work for the nose bridge.
I really liked how you explained about the holes in the woven fabric and therefore the need for the non woven layer. Due to that explanation which made a lot of sense, I made a pattern where you don’t join fabric with stitching right down the middle of the mask and punch holes in the mask right over our noses and mouths. Instead, you (1)gather the middle third of the bottom edge to snug under the chin, (2) one small dart on each side edge to close the side gaps, and (3) four small darts for the nose section. I used your idea for using a foil pan to make a metal piece that I sewed in the seam allowance for the nose/upper cheek area. If you’d like my pattern, please let me know. Thank you!
The fabric she refers to is a non woven fabric, in the fabric stores you will be asking for non woven interfacing(not woven) it comes in different weights and also comes in regular or iron-on.
Thank you for sharing!!
Something to keep in mind is:
the hospitals are washing and drying these masks in a super high heat!! The oly fun melts and the vacuum bags will dissolve.. unless if you leave an opening for inserting these materials every time you use and remove and dispose prior wash!!
I found the simplest way and they appreciate best is to make it out 100%cotton fabric and leave an opening and they are inserting the disposable masks to last longer.. 👍🏼
Now I have 10 yards of oly fun 🤣🤣🤣I guess I will make bags with it 🤦🏻♀️ 😁 yay
❣️Happy sewing ❣️
Oh, goodness! I just ordered a bolt of Olyfun!!! Like you - I guess I will make tote bags!
Will the interfacing still be viable?
I saw a video for an Olson face mask. Many hospitals are requesting masks with a removable pockets for the filter. This will allow them to remove filters and insert new filters after masks are washed.
This is exactly what I can’t figure out! She says get the oly fun, but people are saying that it melts... I looked at a ton of different reusable bags I have, and literally all the material looks different to me. I
Wasting so much time researching, that I could be spending sewing masks...
Just a thought but you could donate pre-cut filter inserts of the poly fun to donate with the masks. Make them with a pocket/insert so the poly fun layers don't get washed but removed and replaced after each use.
I have used recycled elastic from an old fitted sheet.
I was thinking of doing that because my local walmart sold out of elastic fabric string.
Is the elastic from sheet thin enough for the mask?
@@giselle1383 my elastic is 3/8ths. Not ideal, yet still thin enough to work. Some sheets have very wide elastic.
Cut up some ACE type athletic bandages or the like into strips.
What a great idea. I think I have a couple lying around
@@giselle1383 Try underwear elastic.
For nose bands I am using the flat bands from coffee bags, cut in half with wire snips. My top stitching channel is wide enough to slip the wire through to the center. I leave one side of the liner open to add more layers if desired. Am using cotton fabric for lining and outside.
Thank you for this series of videos. You have provided lots of informative do's and don'ts from types of fabric, interfacing, elastics, substitutions, etc. I live in Louisiana and in one of the parishes that seem to have a continuous rise in positive testings. There are three young grandchildren in my home; I have parents and in-laws with very low immune systems in fear because masks are so hard to come by; therefore, I take no chances when it's a must to go outside our home. Making these masks with your patterns and instructions are easy for a "basic sewer" like me!!!!
Very, very helpful. I’ve made almost 50 masks so far, and we’re starting to run out of notions here in Ohio. I’ll keep your recommendations in mind. Many thanks.
What is that black waterproof fabric called?????
Cloth masks are considered a barrier mask. It's for the wearer to contain their own cough or sneezes. And helps people to not touch their faces. N95 helps 1st responders, nurses and Dr's to not breath your nasty air your breathing on them.
exactly, cloth masks are NOT completely useless
This is the best mask video so far. I've watched 10 🙏👍♥️
Amen. The others are all looks and very little substance.
Totally agreed. I watched so many youtube tutorials and this is the best so far. Thanks for sharing.
But she doesn't show how to make the masks.
Wow I am amazed, of all the videos I’ve watched yours is the most knowledgeable and very informative. Thank you for all the advice on what to use as a filter, and you are very right I tried on one of the masks I made and I was having trouble keeping it on for long. The two layers of fabric was two thick because one was stretchable 99% cotton(a friend wanted black)and that was the only black I had around. I am making masks for my extended family and I would like to just sew extras and give them away.
Great video. I've found that wider elastic can be cut thinner without fraying, too.
This is the BEST and MOST INFORMATIVE video I’ve seen! Thank you for your hard work in researching and sharing all this info. Great job!
Thank you so much for making a video that explains the types of fabric to use, this is awesome and so easy to understand through the examples you have used. :)
But she doesn't say what fabric "it" is.
This has been the most informative video I had seen so far. Thank you so much for the excellent information♥️
What is that black waterproof material called and where can I get it???????????
This is by far the best face mask video.
I thought it couldn't be fusible, that it only can be non-fusible or sew-in interfacing because of the adhesive. Is it safe or not? Thanks for sharing.
I think non-fusible is hard to find at this point. Everything is selling out everywhere. Can't find anything.
@@Kimberlyn1323 I understand, but it's safe to use even tho it has the adhesive? Thanks again.
@@VickyLatorreArt I dont know I heard the same thing. I have a little and was going to use it until I saw that it shouldn't be used.
@@Kimberlyn1323 Thanks.
We use fusible interfacing, if you're worried about fumes that is, all of the time. Store-bought blouses and dress shirts almost always use interfacing and it lasts for years. A lot of that would be fusible to save time and errors in the factory. The fumes disappate though it will smell when you're ironing. Fusible has been out there for decades and is usually what people use (non is not popular at all except for very delicate fabrics, which is also why it's harder to find). Think about the collars you wear and those are right by your face all of the time.
For an outer covering, get the cotton fabric with the tightest weave you can find (a premium quilting fabric like Moda or a quilting Batik fabric).
Suggestion for when there is not enough elastic for ear loops for each mask:
Make your own STRAIGHT ON THE GRAIN fabric tubes to cut down on fraying instead of using bias tape!. It may take a wee bit longer to make but would last better, and probably be more comfortable!
1)Cut fabric about .75" wide and long enough to make ear loops for maybe 4-6 loops--but add 1/2" to 1" longer for EACH LOOP.
2)Fold the .75" together, w/ WRONG side out and stitch the long length, half the thickness of the width.
3)Put a long crochet hook or a wire coat hanger flattened out with a small hook made on the end and push it through the tube, hook the fabric back through the tube so the right side is out.
4)Cut the fabric ear loops 1/2" to 1" LONGER than your instructions length for plain elastic, to allow for larger faces.
5) Cut 1.5" to 2" piece of elastic and place INSIDE the loop of ONE end of every loop, and stitch across 2x to secure.
6) Sew one fabric+elastic loop on each side of the mask as directed.
This would save elastic, and make it easier for the folks who wear it to adjust to the desired tightness with a safety pin or a stitch on the FABRIC part of the loop, but still keep the elastic stretchy!
Thanks! I'm making masks with loops around the back of the head instead of ears. I'm gonna try out your idea to save me on elastic, which is running low for me & can't be easily purchased anymore in the Seattle area.
I read a review that says among the cons to the Oly Fun fabric are: "will melt if exposed to extreme heat" - "You must be extra careful if you iron it. Use a pressing cloth and low iron heat" - "Must be air dried. Can not be heat dried" - These would be big drawbacks because I imagine the health care workers are going to want to wash them in hot water.
A doctor in another video says an autoclave heats to 240 degrees celsius. That's 464 degrees farenheidt. So, this might be a mask to wear on top of another mask to make that one last longer, but as the only means of protection, I don't know. Uniform service dryers can get as hot as 176 degrees Farenheidt. Household dryers today go up to maybe 135 degrees F. In both cases, the heating element and metal parts of the dryer will probably be hotter.
Yes it melts with an iron. I wish I had read this before purchasing it.
These may very well be best for just those of us at home. In Washington State all of the ladies sewing for the 100 Million Masks project were prepared to have their masks be a one-time-use disposable option. Otherwise the nurses who might use this for a day would have better luck, possibly, than with a 3 day old N95 mask that has been falling apart and in a labeled bag on the wall for days so it can be used and reused. Doctors and nurses were using staplers to repair the elastics on their disposable N95 masks. Things may eventually be easier for the rest of the nation (cross fingers and pray) but Seattle and WA State were hit like a deer in the headlights and the supplies were gone very quickly before we could get help of any kind from FEMA and the president (who still isn't getting masks, tests and PPE to the states no matter how many governors are begging for help). What you see on TV coming out of NY City is absolutely still true. They're using trash bags for gowns in the hospitals, reusing their masks, and even wearing their ski goggles or go-fund-me ski goggle fundraisers to protect themselves because there are not enough face masks. That was still the news as of 4/11/20. Problem not solved, so improving on this mask may be the best way. Those of us who may be asymptomatic or pre-symptomatic could save lives by at least wearing the best mask we can make when out in public.
Forgot to also say: these shouldn't be ironed ever--unless you're using Sew-In or Fusible Non-Woven interfacing. The Oly Fun is just plastic non-woven fabric. If you need to, carefully trim the fabric as most would do when sewing curves or darts etc for fabric patterns (clothing making). That will help the Oly Fun lay more flat and help it curve by not having so much bulk along the front seams.
What about using pipe cleaners for the nose piece?
Cowgirl I’m thinking I read Pro’s and Con’s to utilizing Pipe Cleaners. Making these masks except maybe the throw away ones is not cut and dry😬. We should be wanting to utilize the resources we have well, keeping in mind the safety of our “Front Line” people. I would love to see one place that those who are wanting to make these mask can go for updates current information and finding of what is working and any changes that need to be made to theses mask, for the safety of our precious team on the front lines😃. Probably over answers you question.
QBI Faith
I agree to a place to gather the best ideas and updates so we can keep things usable and use less time, any takers on putting together a place with mask info updates. Susan Caple Colorado
QBI Faith I vote for you🥰to open the Facebook group, web site or both! You got the great idea!!!🥳We can invite experts like Paddy Robertson, CEO from Smart Air. Check out his 40 min. Video from March 10th. On his Facebook page!
You recommend the use of Oly-Fun as a permanent filter layer. The Fairfield is not clear about whether or not to was Oly-fun. In one part of the website they say washing and drying will degrade the material. In another area they say washing and drying may degrade the material. In another area of the website they say machine wash gentle cycle - air dry? Have you done an testing on how many times you masks with Oly-Fun can be washed?
Ok, so am I missing something? Will any of these substitutes affect our lungs? Wearing these interfacing and having it next to our nose and breathing and filtering thru our lungs are two entirely different applications? Just wondering. Okay, be affected by Corona or lungs problems?
Thank you very much from Australia. Masks might be needed for the very first time in July 2021 in my little state. I’ve held off making any as I’ve been paralysed with fear of making the wrong thing. Thank you.
With an actual N95/TB fitted respirator- it has to fit snugly around the nose, mouth, sides of cheeks and under the chin.
Putting pipe cleaners in the top, sides and bottom edges.
Pipe cleaners may rust in the wash.
@@FormerDelusional I've made the slot for the pipe cleaner open on one side so it can slide out and be replaced.
Thanks for that cause I have a hundred of those.
And I don’t think they will rust. I use them to clean straws and things with long thin holes. They dry up and no rust.
@@FormerDelusional I was told by the hospital to use 20 florist wire. I loop up the end like a teardrop shape
Pipe cleaners work very well for bridge of nose. I used 4" segment but can use longer.
I saw them use a pipe cleaner on another mask demo. They did double it, which might help it last longer. :)
I think the problem is people have nothing. So even the masks made out of t shirts are better than nothing. That’s the comparison that people should keep in mind. Shops in Germany are closed so we can’t buy things like that we have to use what’s in our home. And some support medical professionals even wear those pleated types with the air gaps.. so they can’t be that bad. As i understand from my sister (a doctor in U.K.) the virus doesn’t transport through the air on its own as in your analogy, it usually comes inside a droplet ball of spittle or mucus so that’s why even cotton is mostly effective. But I agree if it’s making people take more risks then that’s obviously wrong (for any mask that aren’t the proper ones).
I have found that the out layer of a tot's pull-ups is non porous, and I believe would be protective. Any comments on that would be helpful. Thanks,
Tin Coffee-bag ties that are easily pocketed. Sticky on one side to hold in place until the pocket is sewn. 5/8” FOE (Fold over elastic) is a great way to make the sides and top and bottom really snug. I found wonderful patterns on Etsy (piano keyboard, music notes pattern, and Autism Awareness puzzle pattern) :)
I have found that a 1 1/2 inch strip of knit material taken from a t-shirt and then stretched out makes a great replacement for elastic and it is very comfortable. Just cut across body of the t-shirt and then pull it tight. It curls up and is like a stretchy piece of elastic. FYI
Firstly thank you for the video. But I couldnt grasp how you can breath through it ?
Medical is asking for ties and NOT elastic, so there is more adjustability. Their ears are getting sore from the many hours they are working.
I saw someone use the filter from a Filtrete Furnace filter. It is a hepa filter and will make it closest to an N95 mask. 🥰
You have to be careful with furnace filters as they have fiberglass in them which is dangerous if inhaled.
@@tonibridge1 Definitely not all of them! If you get the better ones like Filtrete 2800 MPR (Microparticle Performance Rating) it equates to MERV 14 and do NOT have fiberglass. The lower MERV ones are the ones that are fiberglass and don't filter out near as much. Look for a 2400 or 2800 MPR filter for best results.
@@tonibridge1 I called 3m and the Filrete filter does NOT have fiberglass- info straight from the horse's mouth!
the Filrete 1500 goes down to 3 microns, which is the gold standard.
@@joanchantler2498 do you know how these filters stand up to washing?
GREAT explanation of what supplies to use when the usual supplies for mask are in short/empty supply. Thank you.
Thank you for posting this. On a related note, existing face masks can be treated with polyethelyneamine and or catechin, an African plant, to create an effective viral blocking mask; Here are some selected citations;
"Studies published by Tiliket et al. and Catel-Ferreira et al. in 2015 demonstrated a cellulose based material for airborne virus filtration in which a low-cost non-woven cellulose material (Kimwipes) were chemically modified by coating them with polyethylenimine (PEI) or grafting in an antiviral agent; catechin."
"The filtration efficiency of the modified filter media was first tested on aerosolized T4D viruses (Enterobacteria phage T4, Doermann’s strain T4D). Then the treated filter was inserted inside a commercial medical mask in place of its cellulose layer and the reconstructed mask was challenged with TD4 aerosols to evaluate its virus removal efficiency."
"Both treatments significantly improved the virus capture factor (ratio of upstream to downstream PFU contents) of KW cellulose wipes and of reconstructed commercial masks when compared to original masks and to masks reconstructed with untreated wipes."
Tiliket, Ghania & Ladam, Guy & Nguyen, Trong & Lebrun, Laurent. (2016) published "Polyethylenimine surface layer for enhanced virus immobilization on cellulose." Search for that article online.
Polyethylenimine (PEI) is a polycation, which is readily adsorbed by the cellulose matrix from a 0.1% w/v solution in NaCl 0.2 M (ca. 100 ng cm−2). Further PEI adsorption steps at higher PEI concentrations induce a linear growth of the PEI films, suggesting that free adsorption sites still exist after the initial adsorption. The adsorbed PEI chains are resistant to variations of the ionic strength up to NaCl 1 M.
"Promisingly, the adsorption of T4D bacteriophages are *15-fold more efficient* onto the PEI-treated fabric, compared to the native regenerated cellulose films, as measured by QCM-D.
This confirms the strong affinity between the negatively charged viruses and PEI, even at low PEI concentration, probably governed by strong electrostatic attractive interactions.
This result explains the remarkable improvement of the affinity of medical masks for virus droplets when one of their cellulose layers was changed by two-PEI-functionalized cellulose-based filters."
Polyethylenimine is commercially available.
This should be of interest to DIY mask makers.
I am glad someone here who isnt even a medical provider had the sense to do some peer review periodical searching. cheers
I read on South Korean news that you have to change the filter everyday. Otherwise the interfacing filter won’t act efficiently.
I found to make easy straps was to cut 1 1/4 " strips of cotton fabric, fold lengthwise, iron, then run through a serger. Very time effective.
Never thought I’d sere this in my day 😩
I know. I hate sewing so much, usually, that I haven't improved my machine but still have a shxxxy one from the 90's..a Kenmore from Sears. Ugh.
THANKS SO MUCH! I watched all of your videos on making a safe mask and they were the best of any that I've seen. I made 3 using your instructions. One suggestion that worked well for me was to lengthen the elastic bands to about 9" and then I used a bra clip to hold them behind the head, (THE PLASTIC DISCS THAT HOLD YOUR STRAPS IN PLACE) instead of behind the ear which was uncomfortable for me. (I wear glasses) You can easily hood one elastic, and put it over your face and then hoop the other one. If you are not familiar with bra clips, they are very inexpensive and are available on Amazon. The clips tightened the mask just enough so that there were NO GAPS! ALSO, my Doctor told me you can disinfect paper or fabric masks by placing them in a paper bag with a damp paper towel and then into a 165 degree oven for 30 minutes. Most peoples' hot water is not hot enough without the addition of bleach to disinfect for the Corona Virus.
I love that you tell us what NOT to use...really good video. Diane in NC