You may want to try a DIY face mask with a filter pocket pattern. A face mask is used to keep dirt, smoke, and other pollutants from entering the nose and throat area of the wearer. This type of mask is often used in clinics and hospitals, but there are also many DIY kits available. They can be made for any purpose.
These masks have two parts – the headpiece and the filter pocket. The face mask with the pattern is held onto the head and held in place by elastic bands or Velcro. A clear plastic membrane is then placed over the head piece, so that only the nose and throat can be seen. In addition, some types of headpieces have additional padding over the ear pieces to give the wearer extra comfort.
A cloth or velour head piece is then placed over the mask. Some face masks have straps or clasps which can be pulled aside to expose the attachment of the head piece. In this way it can be worn tighter or looser, depending on the comfort level of the wearer. One additional advantage of these types of masks is that they can be washed and reused as well.
To make the DIY mask with the filter pocket pattern, first prepare the cloth or velour head piece according to the pattern you intend to make. Fold the cloth in half, and then fold half of the cloth into three quarters. This produces a triangle shape. Next, pull the corners of the triangle inwards, until the cloth reaches about halfway. The result will be the pocket.
Next, pull the corners of the pocket forwards, until the elastic is released. This should now be attached to the mask. Ensure that the elastic is attached firmly to the mask, for it to serve the purpose you intended.
After ensuring that all the pieces are firmly attached to the mask, test if the DIY one fits the mask correctly. If not, cut the excess fabric, and discard it. Secure the edges of the pocket onto one side of the mask, using masking tape, or Velcro. You may want to sew the two sides of the pocket together, to ensure that the DIY mask matches the rest of your outfit.
If you wish to create a DIY face mask, or use one you bought elsewhere, you need to ensure that the fabric or velour that you used is strong enough, and that the holes for your features are large enough for your face to fit comfortably through. It is also important that the patterns of the face mask are not too close together. You can use a sewing machine to make the stitching smooth and even. If you are uncomfortable with this task, however, you may prefer to sew the feature to your face mask directly.
Once the feature is in place, line the bottom of the pocket up with your nose and mouth. If you want, you could even glue a rubber or plastic nose and mouth onto the bottom of the filter pocket, to ensure that it stays in place. Glue on some safety goggles, to avoid the feature from shifting or falling when you laugh or talk, and enjoy your DIY face mask.
To make your own DIY face mask using a pocket, you first need to have measurements of your own face, to prepare the pocket for stuffing. This is an easy process, although you will need a ruler, so that you can be sure that the pocket is not too large or too small. Next you need to measure how big your mouth is. The size of your mouth is measured to determine the width of the pocket.
Once you have all these measurements ready, it is time to put your face mask into the pocket. Start stitching from the centre of your mouth, moving outwards. Continue stitching until your mask fits perfectly into the pocket. When your mask is in the right position, stuff it. There is no need for you to worry about how much stuffing you use because the instructions will advise how much each individual strip should hold.
After stitching your own mask, be careful to follow all the instructions carefully. Do not leave any extra material and threads exposed. You may find it easier to hand stitch the mask if you use a sewing machine. This will also allow you to create more intricate designs, but a sewing machine will also be easier to use if you ever need to sew something together that is not smooth, and a little tricky. It is definitely worth learning a new skill such as making your own DIY face mask, as once you’ve finished you will be surprised just how useful and attractive your mask will be.
