Discussions

Okay, I got me more elastic, and I have a unreasonable fabric stash still. I'm fully expecting mandatory masking to come into effect eventually, and the kids needing them for school, either voluntarily or mandatory.  
 
I've sewn a bunch of the pleated surgical-style masks a while ago, but I'm always fighting with glasses fogging up. I end up with my glasses 1/2 way down my nose so I can see in the grocery store.  
 
Those who have sewn masks (or have loved ones who have sewn you masks), what's your favourite pattern and/or style? I see lots of tutorials promising "no fog" etc, but then complaints in the comments about fit etc.  
 
I don't have the patience to do mock-ups of 6 different patterns, so I'm hoping ebrandon can help me narrow it down to a couple.

Have you tried getting the special wires that you can insert as part of the nose piece?  
 
Paper clips work well, but you need to remove them before laundering.  
 
Just a couple of ideas that may help with fogged up glasses.

Tried that, at least in a pleated mask. It was useless. Ultimately, the only thing that helps is sitting the glasses on top of the fabric. It's hard to get a good fit around the nose, I can get it snug everywhere else but there.

I did the 3 pleat first bunch but I found a free pattern on this website, and it was much easier to sew and fit way better. I did some tucks on side for my kids to fit better . I also found I liked the fit better , I could breath easier and my glasses didn't fog up.  
 
Here is the link pattern is quite away down on site. You can print it off on home printer.  
I didn't line them I just used same material each side.  
 
https://www.craftpassion.com/face-mask-sewing-pattern/  
 
Edited by Mac72, 2020-08-10 19:05:28

Sorry in advance if this sounds ignorant - I’ve only used the disposable masks thus far. I’m trying to decide between purchasing and sewing myself for reusable masks. Everything i’m finding on amazon uses sold separately disposable filters, which seems to defeat the purpose of going with reusable? Not sure if the point is to simply cover up or if I need to be looking for specific specs or filters or fabrics - are there ‘rules’ to this? Any info appreciated!

https://www.regmedctr.org/webres/File/OlsonMask_wPattern_v3-USE%20THIS%20ONE.pdf  
 
This is a link to the pattern that I use. It has a pocket for a filter that you can make from paper towel or a coffee filter. I use the blue shop towels to cut out filters. They offer an extra, absorbent layer of protection. I also tack about a 2 inch strip of twist tie in the inside seam to pinch over the nose.

Most masks that have filter pockets are optional. I have some with pockets and some without, and I never use a filter as I found it started to make it challenging to breathe.  
 
The general idea of a mask with more layers will offer more protection - 2 is better than 1, 3 is better than 2. But cloth/reusable masks tend to get wet (which is good - it's doing it's job), so the filter also absorbs some of the dampness. You could also use a piece of cloth as a filter, which could then be washed and reused.

Try searching sweetredpoppy.com for a free pattern and tutorial. You might also try sewing a button to the very top of this mask that will hold your glasses and keep them from sliding down and keep just enough space that they don't fog. I used the green garden wire sold in a roll from the dollar store for the nose piece (doubled). Good luck with your project!

 
 
Edited by Flutterby, 2020-08-11 09:17:49

I just read my post again. I had mentioned paper clips. They can be used, but I meant to say pipe cleaners.  
 
Some people have also tried twist ties, but that sounds a bit weak to me.

Thanks Abbysmum - that’s helpful!

thanks everyone! I gots some fabric to cut!

I have seen where coffee filters can be used inside cloth masks. Cheap and disposable. Not sure how much filtering they would do but is an extra layer.

that's the one I have as soon as I put it on I'm instantly hot what other material would be better ?

They're all hot. It's the nature of the job they do - they're supposed to contain droplets, so they get hot and moist inside. That's why you should change them fairly frequently.  
 
But you do get used to it. If nothing else, it saves me money as it encourages me to be quicker in the store so I can take the darn thing off, LOL.

where do you get those in Brandon ?  
are they pricey ?