Face Mask Information and Care Instructions:
Sew Gypsy is maintaining a low contact process for all products which means:
- All products are washed, then sealed in a plastic bag
- All products are handled with gloves
- A face mask is worn while constructing, washing and packaging products
Cloth masks have the advantage of being washable and reusable.
A metal strip is enclosed at the top to snugly form around your nose for a better seal.
The elastic on both ends can be shortened by carefully undoing the knot and then re-tie to fit you better. Don’t cut the knot as you may lose too much length causing it to become too tight.
NOTE: Once you have a good fit for your mask you can sew a few small stitches on either side of the knot to help keep it in place.
If threads appear after washing (this is normal) just CUT the threads don't try to pull on them to ensure the strength and integrity of your product.
FILTER:
A FILTER opening lies under the metal strip for added protection. Once you’ve inserted the extra filter hold both ends and tug to re-pleat the mask.
Filter Materials:
- Kleenex
- Paper Towels (Bounty Plus are great!)
- Handkerchief or non-woven materials such as: tea bag paper, thin face cloths, etc.
probably non-woven)
SIZES:
- Adult - 6”-6.5” x 31/4”-3.5”, very close to the masks given out at our hospitals here in Canada.
- Babies - It is recommended that children under 2 should not wear masks because their lungs may not be strong enough yet to draw breath through a mask.
- Children (3-6 years) - 6" x 2.75" (approx.)
- Children (7-10) - 6.5" x 3' (approx.)
- XL - 4" x 8" (special order)
WASHING INSTRUCTIONS:
Hand-washing is ideal for longevity of the product, as well as maintaining pleats and wire shape.6
Machine wash or hand-wash, with a small amount of anti-bacterial soap or OxiClean. Rinse well if hand-washing.
Hang or machine dry.
NOTE: Applying a soft press with an iron helps pleats stay crisp with no adverse effects. This is not necessary for the function of the mask.
If you use your face mask all day:
- change your filter several times, especially if working around people
- consider a new filter after each client visit or meeting where applicable
- IMMEDIATELY wash your hands
Restringing Your Face Masks
Elastics can wear out over time and through washing.
To replace:
- remove the old or broken elastic
- using a pin, a larger needle (repair needles), or a wire (bend one end into a small circle to hold the new elastic), thread the new material through the ends of the mask and re-tie.
Materials you can use:
- Sewing Elastic
- Elastic Cording
- Elastics
- Ribbons
- Yarn
- Shoe Laces
The elastic materials are for making loops to fit around your ears. The ribbon, yarn or shoe laces can be used as ties that go around the head and neck instead of ears. Simply tie big knots at both ends or sew a few stitches to keep them from slipping out. Get creative and personalize your face mask.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=r7TB2SDRmu0
Disclaimer - These are not medical grade Face Masks, always follow the advice of your medical practitioner and Alberta Health Services.