Just like social distancing (remember to stay six feet apart at all times when in public space!), face masks are an important way to stay healthy during this time. The CDC is suggesting that everyone wear a face covering of some kind while outside of the house. But face masks in the store can be expensive, as well as hard to find. Fortunately, there are lots of easy ways to make one on your own, no sewing required!
For a no-sew face mask, here is what you will need:
- a handkerchief or other piece of fabric that is 18 inches by 18 inches (such as a cut t-shirt)
- 2 hair ties or rubber bands (hair ties will be more durable and hold up in the wash)
1. Lay the piece of fabric flat, fold the top about a 1/3 of the way down
2. Fold the bottom of the fabric a 1/3 of the way up, so the top and the bottom folds meet in the middle
3. Flip over, so the opening where the top and bottom meet faces inward
4. Again, fold the top about a 1/3 of the way down
5. Fold the bottom about a 1/3 of the way up, so the fabric meets in the middle in a pleat
6. Flip the fabric over, so the opening where the top and the bottom meet faces inward
7. Thread the fabric through the two hair ties, so each hair tie is about a 1/3 of the way along the length of the fabric
8. Fold the sides of the fabric in, so the open seams at the edges are no longer exposed
Once the fabric is folded over so the hair ties are hanging free, your face mask is ready for use! Simply loop the hair ties around your ears and make sure the open seams of the fabric go against your face.
ALWAYS wash your face mask after wearing it outside! A clean face mask not only protects you but the others around you.
No hair ties? In a pinch, wrap an infinity scarf around your mouth and nose three times, making sure the fabric is tight. Even a little protection like a scarf can go a long way!
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