Can You Make Your Own Cloth Masks or Face Covers?

In response to recent public health guidelines, the state of Connecticut now mandates the use of masks or cloth face coverings when entering stores or other public areas and gatherings. This has sparked a wave of interest in making one's own face masks, providing a DIY solution to ensure a good fit and comfort.

Why Cloth Masks?

Items considered acceptable can range from simple bandanas to more structured patterns that can be sewn. Websites like Pinterest offer a plethora of patterns and tutorials, making it relatively easy for those with sewing skills to create their own face coverings. Even those without such skills can use fabric from old t-shirts, bandanas, or socks to make homemade masks. This approach has become a practical and popular method to address the need for masks.

Making a Difference in Your Community

I, like many others, have taken up mask-making to help my friends, family, and neighbors who may not have access to store-bought masks. As someone who can sew and has access to a sewing machine, I find it particularly fulfilling to produce a tangible product that can help prevent the spread of diseases. The best part? When we use homemade masks, we not only help ourselves by being more prepared, but also contribute to the health and safety of those around us. Living just 50 miles from New York City, where the virus has been particularly devastating, has made me acutely aware of the seriousness of this situation. Every mask I can sew means adding one more layer of defense against the virus.

Shopping for Masks

While it’s possible to find masks for sale in stores and online, it’s important to be cautious. Many of the masks available for purchase may not be as effective as they should be, and some can be quite expensive. The allure of a fashionable mask is understandable, but remember that aesthetics do not necessarily correlate with effectiveness. For the best protection, always opt for well-known brands, choose masks with multiple layers, and ensure they fit properly. Remember, the most important factor is the functionality of the mask, not its appearance. You can find many reputable brands that offer masks widely accepted by health organizations as effective against respiratory droplets.

Conclusion

Given the current situation, making your own cloth masks or face covers is a practical and significant contribution you can make to your community. Whether you possess the skills to sew or can repurpose old clothing items, creating homemade masks can be a rewarding endeavor. By doing so, you not only provide yourselves and those around you with an additional layer of protection but also contribute to the broader effort to reduce the spread of the virus. So, if you have the means to make masks, consider it a valuable and socially responsible activity.