Community Face Mask - Set 1

General info:
These community masks are handmade with care and attention to detail in design and construction. However, as they are made by a human, variations in seams, pleats and ties are to be expected.
Adult Mask: Pleated, 8.25" x 3", and expand to just over 5”
Child Mask: Pleated, 6.25” x 2.25”, and expand to about 4.25”

Jersey ties are sewn in (instead of elastic over ears) to allow for better fit for different people, to prevent ear ulcers from extended wear, and to ensure they are latex free for sensitive wearers. Ties can be shortened as needed, by simply cutting them. The knots are added to make it easier to find the end to pull when untying behind your head.
 
Galvanized steel nose wire has been sewn into its own pocket, and is both heat and rust proof. It is robust to hold its shape and keep a tight fit on your nose, but will suffer from flexion fatigue (and will eventually break), if it is bent and straightened over and over again. Imagine bending a wire back and forth to eventually get it to snap. To avoid that, and to assist with wire longevity, form it to your nose initially, and then leave the wire bent (even through transport and washing / ironing) to prevent unnecessary stress. Small adjustments are fine during wear, but avoid repeated, dramatic reshaping, if at all possible. 
 
Content:
Fabric, inner and outer layer: 100% preshrunk woven cotton
Fabric, middle layer (3rd layer): 100% non-woven polypropylene (breathable & washable)
Ties: hand stretched 100% cotton jersey yarn
 
To use: The lighter fabric is the inside of the mask. Tie the top ties behind the head first, then expand the mask just enough to just cover nose and mouth, and then tie the bottom ties. Nose wire can then be further adjusted for best fit. Mask fits best with the nose wire at the mid-bridge point of your nose (where the cartilage meets bone) – no need to wear the nose wire up close to your eyes. If you prefer to have ear loops, you can knot the ties behind the ears. You can even tie the top ties to the bottom ties, crossing at the back of the head if that gives you a better fit. Lots of options! 
 
To care for your 3 layer community mask: Machine or hand wash in warm or cold with detergent. Air dry. Please see note about leaving nose wire bent during cleaning to prevent flexion stress. Using a garment bag will prevent straps getting tangled in your other clothes. It is NOT recommended to iron your 3 layer mask, due to the polypropylene 3rd layer, and the possibility you may melt it.
 
Disclaimer: Please note this is not intended to replace a medical grade N95 mask. Use at your own risk. If used properly, community masks can help slow the spread of germs or viruses by catching droplets, according to NB provincial health recommendations at the time of mask production. 
 
Wear it, wash it, and be safe!