Homemade masks
I am not good at sewing and can barely use my sewing machine. Nonetheless, I decided to join the increasing number of crafters making their own face masks. The opinion on the use of face masks here in the United States is changing. A growing number of medical experts are now saying that widespread use of face masks could be an effective complement to hand washing and social distancing to reduce the spread of the coronavirus. American officials have been discouraging use of N95 and surgical masks by the public due to severe shortages of personal protective equipment, which are essential, and should be reserved, for heath care professionals.
But how about homemade masks? Some studies have shown that, while homemade masks are not as effective as medical-grade masks protecting their wearers, they do reduce aerosol exposure. Although outward protection was shown to be less effective than inward protection, these masks still reduced disease transmission significantly. Therefore, any barrier protection is better than none. People still need to go to the grocery store, pharmacy, or to medical appointments, and wearing homemade masks for these outings could not only lower their risk of infection but could also reduce transmission of the disease by those without symptoms.
As I mentioned earlier, my sewing skills are very limited. Therefore, I chose a face mask design that looked easiest for me to make with the 100% cotton fabric and 1/4" elastic band I had at home. I decided to make the masks only double layers, because breathability is an important factor for me and my family. I am planning to make as many masks as the materials I have will let me. I am not sure how I feel about wearing one of these, as it feels very weird. However, my 12-year old son corrected me that the situation is what's weird. Lets just hope that all of the prevention methods we are doing will help to reduce the number of infections and deaths and this new normal will not last long.
But how about homemade masks? Some studies have shown that, while homemade masks are not as effective as medical-grade masks protecting their wearers, they do reduce aerosol exposure. Although outward protection was shown to be less effective than inward protection, these masks still reduced disease transmission significantly. Therefore, any barrier protection is better than none. People still need to go to the grocery store, pharmacy, or to medical appointments, and wearing homemade masks for these outings could not only lower their risk of infection but could also reduce transmission of the disease by those without symptoms.
As I mentioned earlier, my sewing skills are very limited. Therefore, I chose a face mask design that looked easiest for me to make with the 100% cotton fabric and 1/4" elastic band I had at home. I decided to make the masks only double layers, because breathability is an important factor for me and my family. I am planning to make as many masks as the materials I have will let me. I am not sure how I feel about wearing one of these, as it feels very weird. However, my 12-year old son corrected me that the situation is what's weird. Lets just hope that all of the prevention methods we are doing will help to reduce the number of infections and deaths and this new normal will not last long.
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