Mask Fit Tips & Tricks

When I started making masks in March, I could never have imagined where we would be now. Mask mandates, the fact that they are somehow a fashion trend, the need or want for specific patterns, styles, colors, branding, fabrics… the list goes on and on. In fact, I remember very clearly saying to someone “I mean, it's not like it needs to be a fashion statement….”

Well friends, the joke is clearly on me.

It seems that we all have different preferences around 2020’s hottest accessory, but one thing is consistent: we want a good, comfortable fit. So today, I’d like to give you a couple of fit tips and tricks about masks.

Whether you’re wearing my masks (still available in the shop!) or someone else’s, I hope these will make your experience with them at least a little more comfortable!

First: Make sure you have the right size. This is especially important in smooth front style masks! Your mask should stay in place when you talk without needing adjustment. If it falls up or down when you move your jaw, the problem is the curve on the front of the mask not the side to side size. You need a deeper curve across the front to allow for more movement.If your mask covers your ears, or comes up too high on the bridge of your nose, or completely covers your cheekbones, you need a smaller size. If it’s too tight across the bridge of your nose or pulls on your ears, you need a bigger width. See photo for more explanation.

2. Ear loops versus straps. While this is truly a personal preference, you want your straps or loops tight enough to hold the mask in place, but not so tight that it constricts your movement, pulls your ears forward, or gives you a headache. If you are having trouble with your ear loops or straps staying in place, my first suggestion is to try twisting them to make an X before wrapping around your ear. This provides a small amount of tightening, and is very simple to do. Be careful though, that it doesn’t cause your mask to gape at the sides, allowing air (and germs) to escape. Another suggestion is to simply cut the strap or ear loop and tie a knot to your liking. This is YOUR mask, and it needs to fit well! As long as straps or loops stretch, it shouldn’t be problematic on most to simply snip them and re-tie. A third option is an ear saver of some sort. Again, there are a BUNCH of different styles, including headbands, 3D printed cleats, or mine that button behind the head. These may also be helpful if your straps are slightly too short, as it will decrease pressure on your ears. If your straps are too short, it does get trickier. It’s always easier to make things smaller than larger. If you’re ordering from me, I make my ear loops a little bigger on purpose to accommodate size differences. Again, an ear saver can help! Another solution is to take a hair tie elastic and knot it around your ear loop, and then use the hair tie on your ear. You can also try breaking in the elastic by stretching it to its fullest potential in your hands several times. If you’re ordering from me and are concerned about strap length, I am HAPPY to cut them longer and let you tie them to fit yourself. Just leave me a note in the comments when you make your order.

3. Nose pieces. Nose pieces are an essential part of the mask fit for me, both as a maker and a consumer. Your nose piece should be malleable enough to form to your face, but it should hold a position when you remove the mask. Home made mask makers are using ALL kinds of materials for nose pieces. Fun fact, mine are made from plastic coated twist ties! You can also purchase “after market” nose pieces that stick on to masks that might not have them.

4. Styles & fabrics: Whether you choose pleat fronts, smooth fronts, gaiter styles, veil styles, scarf styles, or something else altogether is purely a personal choice and preference. However, keep in mind the material the mask is made from. A general rule of thumb is that if you can blow out a candle with the mask on, it may not be doing an adequate job blocking your air. Tightly woven, cotton based fabrics appear to be best, but new science is emerging ALL THE TIME about mask effectiveness. Bottom line, the more effective your mask, the safer you and those around you are, but something is much better than nothing!

I hope this helped! If you have any mask questions, please ask them in the comments! And keep your eyes peeled, I’m hoping to drop some more styles soon!

Until next time,

Charis