Many locations throughout the United States have been requiring the use of cloth face coverings when we go outside in public places. In New York and Pennsylvania, to name a couple, it is a direct order from their governors.
There isn’t a nationwide mandate, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that we wear at least a cloth face covering when we are out in public spaces such as grocery stores and using public transportation.
Are Cloth Face Coverings Effective?
The CDC further states that
A cloth face covering is not intended to protect the wearer, but it may prevent the spread of virus from the wearer to others. This would be especially important if someone is infected but does not have symptoms.
Where Can We Find Cloth Face Coverings?
Well, if you’re handy with or without a sewing machine, you can make your very own at home! There are many sites online that offer how to make one with a sewing machine. Check out the CDC’s website as well as Pinterest!
Making a Cloth Face Covering Without a Sewing Machine:
There are a couple of ways you can make your very own face covering without the need for a sewing machine!
The first option is to grab an old t-shirt and a pair of scissors. Cut off about 6-8 inches from the bottom of the t-shirt. From here, cut a 6″ long rectangle from the right side of the cut-off t-shirt bottom. The diagram below is from the CDC’s website and better illustrates the next steps.
The second option is using a bandana and two hair elastics or rubber bands. Fold the square bandana in half, and then fold the bottom 1/3 and the top 1/3 to the middle. Feed each end of the folded bandana into a rubber band. Secure the rubber bands around your ears, and open up the center portion of the bandana to fully cover your mouth and nose area.
For both options, make sure that there is no open spaces between the fabric and your mouth and nose area – make sure it is on tightly!
Where Can I Buy Face Masks Online?
I’ve created a roundup below of some online retailers that are offering face masks. Some are super simple and others are made with fun fabrics – those are my favorite. I figure if you’re going to wear a face mask, it should be a cool one, right?
JANE
Jane.com has a variety of affordable face mask options. Click each of the images below for more information and to purchase. I ordered mine a few days ago and am not 100% sure about the shipping time, but cannot wait to get them.
THE HOUSE OF PERNA
A dear friend and amazing clothing designer, Amanda Perna, has been burning the candle at both ends making masks for our first responders. For the past two weeks she has been offering to make masks for the public, where when you purchase one for $25, one is donated to a first responder. Masks are purchased on a pre-order basis and are machine washable (gentle cycle).
(and they are so pretty too!!)
ETSY
I love supporting small businesses, and that is what Etsy is all about! I found some great mask options – different patterns, adult sizes, kids sizes…
A LITTLE PRICIER…
I found these masks as well. They are a little pricier, but some are very cool! Be sure to check shipping and washing instructions carefully before purchasing any of these.
ONZIE
You may know Onzie as an activewear brand. They, amongst a lot of other fashion brands, have created ways to make and sell masks to help protect! For $24 you would receive two masks made from the same fabric they make their yoga pants from. Translation = super comfy!
Please comment below with retailers offering masks for sale as I’d love to keep this list going (and updated)!
rai fakhar e alam says
hi,
Great job!
The way you explain how to make a mask, it was very helpful, thank you!.
Is there any other way to make a masks at home?
I am definitely going to read other link blogs
Dana says
My pleasure!