These face coverings / fashion masks are available free to health and social care workers, and their families.

If you would like to make a donation towards their cost, the materials used amount to around £1.50.

Important Note

These are not PPE masks. They are face coverings that may or may not offer protection against COVID-19. They are not a substitute for officially prescribed masks, such as N95.

Masks are dangerous for children under two years of age.

Materials

Masks are made using cotton or polycotton fabric as a outer layer and lining. Patterns of fabric vary, but male masks will be plain fabrics, unless you prefer otherwise!

Between the two layers, there is a layer of Vilene non-woven interfacing. This has been suggested to aid filtration of small particles.

I recommend that people opt for a tied version of the mask – this uses grosgrain ribbon, which is grippy in texture, and washable. However, elastic is also available – this design has an elastic over each ear.

The masks have a fabric channel to insert a nose wire – this allows the mask to be pinched at the nose for increased protection. Nose wires can be floral wire, insulated wire, garden wire, rolled up piece of foil, a paperclip. Anything that is able to be manipulated.

Mask Type 1

This is a basic mask, which is standardised in four sizes:

  • Male
  • Female and Teen
  • Child (6-12 years)
  • Child (3-6 years)

Mask Type 2

This is a more complex mask, but offers a better fit – especially for those who wear glasses or have a beard that needs to be encased in the face covering. [NB: this one is a little big on my chin, they’re more fitted than this]

The measurements required:

  • Bridge of nose (where glasses sit) to just in front of the ear.
  • Bridge of nose to point of the chin (or end of beard)

What to do to order

Please drop me a message, on Facebook or wherever you normally connect with me, with the following information for each mask you require:

  • Mask type – 1 or 2?
  • Mask size? (Measurements, if type 2)
  • Gender of wearer? (to make appropriate fabric choices)
  • Ribbon ties, or elastic over ears?
  • Fabric preferences? (e.g. any no-no colours? If for a child, can use more childish prints.)