OneProtective mask in Corona timesshould not be worn only when required by law. This measure should also be adhered to as far as possible to protect others. And while masks don't really limit us when it comes to socializing (we can still easily converse with others and even a smile can be quickly recognized by our eyes), there is one population for whom this doesn't apply - the deaf and hard of hearing. It is an advantage for them if, for example, a plastic mask is transparent.
People whose hearing is impaired usually rely on other people's lip movements to understand them. However, the usual respiratory masks block the view of the mouth. Next to onePlastic protective visorA mask with a viewing window is also suitable. We'll show you how to make a plastic maskmake it transparentcan. Anyone who has contact with lip readers can benefit from such a model.
If you want your plastic mask to be transparent, you will neednext to the fabricOf course, a piece of foil that you integrate into the mask to create a window through which the mouth can be seen. Here is a list of all the things you will need if you want to make the transparent mask:
- Cotton fabric
- Rubber band
- self-erasing pen
- sewing machine
- PVC film, free of harmful substances (or hard transparent cover)
- Needle and thread
- The stick needle
- Scissors
First of all, you shouldthe patternprint from the link at the end of the article if you want to make a clear plastic mask. If you don't have a printer, you can also draw the mask freehand. You can see the necessary dimensions and the shape for the mask in the picture above. Overall, the face mask is 27 cm long and 14 cm at the highest point and 7 cm high on both outer sides.
Cut out template
The viewing window is again 12 x 6.5 cm. Transfer the measurements onto a piece of paper as shown. It doesn't have to be perfect. Then cut out the template. Then cut out the window using nail scissors.
Transferred to fabric
Then take the fabric and fold it once, right sides together. Pin the two layers together with the pins, place the template on the fabric and trace the outline with a self-erasing pen or pencil (don't forget the window). Then draw another border around the edge of the recorded mask and inside the window (see picture). Cut out the mask and pin the two layers back together. You can then cut out the window again with the nail scissors.
Cut the corners of the window within the recorded strip. Sew the two layers of fabric together along the pencil line you traced. Fold the tabs you made earlier on the window through the cuts outwards on both sides and sew them in place with a needle and thread (this will be a temporary seam). Now turn the fabric over so that the right side faces outwards.
Incorporate a viewing window and make the plastic mask transparent
Of course, in order for the plastic mask to be transparent, you still need a window. Cut a piece of foil that fits into the window of the mask. It should ideally be significantly longer and wider than the opening so that you can place it easily between the layers of fabric and then sew it in stably. Now sew the foil to the fabric along the temporary seam from before. You can then remove the old seam.
In the forehead and chin area, it is beneficial to add a few wrinkles to the mask so that it can better adapt to the shape of the face. To do this, simply sew thread through the fabric in these areas a few times by hand and not visibly between the layers of fabric with a needle and pull lightly on the thread. The fabric folds.
Now cut 2 rubber bands, each 10 cm long. Insert the two ends between the two layers of fabric on each side and sew in place.
Instructions for use if the plastic mask is transparent:
- The transparent mask or window fogs up relatively quickly due to your breath. This means that the inside of the film has to be wiped dry frequently (only with clean hands!).
- Such a protective mask needs to be replaced more often because more moisture collects in it. This makes them less practical for everyday use. Therefore, it is best to only use them when necessary.
- Although the plastic mask is transparent, it can be washed in the washing machine like all other reusable masks. It does not harm the PVC film. If you still don't dare, you can first test it with one of your homemade transparent masks.
- The film must not be ironed.
Printable sewing patternhere.
