I'm a hobbiest quilter (OK, fabric hoarder), and I've been sewing masks since I first heard that medical providers did not have enough masks and were reusing their surgical and N95 masks.  I've sewn them for medical professionals, kids, counselors to the hard of hearing, teachers and many others.  I knew that my fabric stash would come in handy one day!  All of the fabric used in my masks is 100% high quality quilting fabric that the CDC recommends for masks.  Some of it is the even better-rated batik.

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Now that the immediate need is filled, I'm selling custom masks using lessons learned from making hundreds of them.    I'm continuing to sew masks for those who can't afford them, but it's a nice change to tailor them for individuals. I enjoy sewing these masks and usually have them done within a day of the order.  **I'm currently substitute teaching in a virtual classroom and my sewing time is mostly on weekends.**

 

Nose Bridge

All of my masks are made with high quality quilting fabric and include a metal bridge to improve the fit over the nose.   The metal piece is pliable and rust resistant with rounded edges and is sewn into the mask.  if you request it, I can change that out for an 18 gauge steel wire.  The steel wire is great for holding its shape over your nose, but it is difficult to get the shape just right.  I'm liking the hold of the steel better and better.  

 

Filter

I sew the filter in place for the fitted masks - these masks should be air dried only.  In the pleated masks, the filter is removable/replaceable - the filter should be removed and washed after each use.  The filters are made with H600 Halyard fabric - the same fabric used to protect surgical instruments when they are sterilized. 

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Ear loops

For keeping the mask on, there are choices.  Adjustable ear loops are the quickest and easiest to use - perfect for quick errands.  Fabric or ribbon ties are more time consuming to put on, but are far more comfortable for longer term wear.  They also give you the option of wearing the mask like a necklace for times when you are alone, but need quick access to it.  On my pleated masks, I include adjustable ear loops.  On fitted masks, I put both ear loops and a single ribbon.  If you prefer, I can attach a thick elastic that would loop around your head.  That definitely takes the pressure off of the ears.  The advantage of a custom mask, is that you can truly have it your way - just let me know!

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Clear pane

I haven't found the perfect pattern for a clear pane mask - though I have sewn many of those.  I can make them if requested.  My next task is to find the perfect pattern for that (must have nose bridge and not be too terribly fussy to sew).

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Washing Instructions

It's best to hand wash these and let them air dry overnight.  If you use a delicates bag, they can go in the washing machine - I hand wash mine.  I don't recommend drying them in the dryer - particularly if the filter is sewn in.  For masks with ribbons, if the ribbons fray, they can be firmed up by burning the edges with a bit of flame (I use my gas stove for this) or a dab of Fray Check.

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