It's a strange world lately... I understand there is a lot of 'discussion' about wearing masks - I'm not commenting on that! I am a designer of sorts so I a offering a way to make them more comfortable to wear.

I hate when the mask touches my face face and then it seems like it breaths even less; so I designed a frame that can fit or adapt to almost all mask styles. 'And the best part is that you probably have everything needed to make it already.

Go, look through your recycle bin...

Supplies

Plastic (HDPE) bottles from vinegar, or bleach or other that has a large surface
Xacto knife/Mat knife
Pattern
*Optional Hot Knife
Your own mask

Step 1: Cut It Up

Print the pattern at 100% (do not fit to page) If you have thicker paper it makes tracing easier. Check size by measuring the squares to be 1".

Take the container and carefully cut it into the largest flat area enough for the pattern piece.

Cut out the pattern piece and then trace around it onto the plastic sheet.

Step 2: Cut Out the Frame

It's time to cut the plastic. I find that the large long cuts are easier with scissors. Keep it smooth and curved.

The inside 'face' holes are harder to cut so be patient as an xacto knife needs a few passes to get through. Wtch your fingers!

Alternatively you can use a hot knife. They heat up to very high temperatures which can make it faster. Mine goes to 500 degrees and that did still take some pressure and time. If you have hole punches that may be another way. The shape is not that crucial as long as it allows air and is not too open.

Step 3: Fitting Into the Masks

This first mask is my pattern for Glasses; and the sides can be adjusted to fit the frame. The frame is probably too long so it allows you to cut it so it will 'force-fit' across the mask inside.

The 'Olsen' style mask can be adapted to include some channels for the ends of the 'arms & legs' to slide into. I have designed a few very popular masks for various preferences (free download)

Cut small pieces off and test before you cut too much... It should give a nice curve to the mask shape. Once slid into the channels it will stay put until you want to take out and clean etc.

Step 4: FItting the Pleated Masks

Since the surgical and pleated masks already have some places to sit the ends of 'arms & legs' they just need adjustment of length across.

The pleats will keep them in place (if need be a few stitches will help)

Step 5: Practice Good Hygiene

I am providing you with a way to make a frame but the rest is up to you. PLEASE practice good hygiene in cleaning and handling your mask.

Make good choices of fabric, storing, washing etc. This may be mostly for people who do not work in the front lines of constant PPE change. (I assume no responsibility for misuse)

For some help with patterns (Especially the Fitted face mask for Glasses ) and making your own Iron-in Metal Nose Wire (again with recycled materials) check my site: https://www.madebybarb.com/

Check out my YouTube channel for more DIY fun...