made my own masks using some youtube vids, but designed my own easier and

[msongs]

and better ones, and faster to make too. went to the fabric store for elastic and guess what?
the lady says lots of people are sewing their own masks and 1/4 inch elastic was sold out so
got some 1/8 inch. that will not last so long probably but the masks are just for me and some friends.

amazing how easy and fast it is if you just use 2 layers of fabric and don't bother with pleats.

[ret5hd]

1. I just wonder how effective they are.

I’ve considered doing the same. But I know that a virus passing through the weave of fabric is about like a skateboard on a runway at DFW.

Maybe there is an aspect I haven’t considered.

[msongs]

2. my take is they reduce particulate spray by trapping some droplets & some

are better than nothing if you are coughing and sneezing. probably the same if you are breathing.

And the ones we make at home are washable with soap and or bleach. fabric is pretty sturdy

[leighbythesea2]

3. Article by friend whos a nurse sent me

https://smartairfilters.com/en/blog/best-materials-make-diy-face-mask-virus/

[diva77]

4. Interesting. Thanks for posting!

[leighbythesea2]

9. Im leaning

On the fly. Going to make some!

[Marrah_Goodman]

5. I did some searching earlier and read they are about 50% as effective as the N95s

But 50% is better then nothing. I am making them for my daughter, granddaughter and their coworkers.

[LisaL]

8. Use cotton materials.

Cotton t-shirts were found to be the best for breathability and catching some particles.
As to how well they work-they are better than nothing.

[blogslut]

6. I think the pleats make them fit more snug

Add: While simultaneously giving the nose and mouth some room to "breathe".

[mitch96]

7. You don't need elastic.Just enough material to tie it from behind

When I started working in hospitals back in the day we just used ties... Simple to sew up also.
m

[IcyPeas]

10. no elastic? no problem (if you have an old pair of pantyhose around)

I've made 3 masks so far. (trying different patterns found on line).

I had no elastic and I assumed the fabric stores would be closed so I did this. Cut a circle out from the leg of a panty hose. I usually use the legs for headbands so I had a few around. The black ones are nicer. They are stretchy and washable.