Where the Masks Are

Next week, Minnesota moves from a “stay home” to a “stay safe” order, which means: time to build your mask wardrobe!

(kidding/ not kidding)

I know a lot of people feel overwhelmed trying to find masks as they are venturing out more often: what will be comfortable? what is the right price? is the organization worthy? should I make my own?

I rounded up some options that I like a lot. Most of these are small companies, many of them are boutique fabric and housewares producers, and many of them are gifting masks with every purchase.

1 Vistaprint Masks. One mask for $18. Many fabric options. Masks take about 3 weeks to ship.

2 Tribe Alive Masks. Set of three for $18. Masks will ship out within 4 weeks.

3 Kahtryn Zaremba Muse Lane Mask. One mask for $16 or purchase one mask and donate one to an essential worker for $20. Masks are currently sold out but it has been a rapidly changing environment so I am including anyway. (We are installing one of her wallpapers in California!)

4 Ferrick Mason Collection.  Variety pack: 5 for you and one sent to someone in need, $38.  (2-packs also available).  Masks are made to order and ship out 2-3 days from order.

I originally found these directly on the Ferrick Mason site, but now Printmakers Collective is offering masks by some of the best small-batch fabric makers around.  Explore all the collections here.

5 Ravi Bandana. One bandana for $35. Several prints available. 10% of the purchase will be donated to the LA Food Bank and LA Untied Way.

6 Scattered Petals Face Mask and Chambray Linen Face Mask. One face mask for $18. For every mask purchased, one mask will be donated to a hospital in need. Masks ship in 2-4 weeks from the time it is ordered.

7 Heather Taylor Home Masks. 10 pack of face masks for $50. For every purchase of ten, ten face masks will be donated to those in need. Ships within 5 business days of order.

8 Let’s Face It Masks. Set of 3 for $30 in assorted prints. For every set sold, a donation is made to the Mayor’s Fund for Los Angeles. Masks will ship out within 7-10 days.

As for me, I was lucky enough to be gifted a mask by Tracy, the local Brizo rep, when she brought me a set of finish samples. I liked it so much, I asked her for the pattern and have been making my own. I have been working with the fabric I have lying around, but I realize I may need to pick up some fabrics that fit into my wardrobe more specifically.

Here is the pattern I have been using.

Following Tracy’s experience, I am skipping the filter and just doing solid fabric on both sides. A print or color on the outside and a muslin on the inside, which makes it easy to keep the outside, out! Once I figured out a good production line I am finding these fairly quick and easy to make. If you try it, let me know if you have questions!

Mask up and stay safe!