New favorite face mask pattern!
I have made and given away hundreds of face masks, over half to seniors, and do not ever use the ear loops - always elastic or ties around the head. With the pleated face masks, I have found they need a nose wire to stay firmly in place, and they are 1- a pain to add 2- good ones are hard to get and 3- some people have a hard time with them. I also find there are large gaps on the sides on many people, not optimal for stopping the spread of droplets. And some people find they collapse against the face when worn for longer times, making them uncomfortable. So I have been on the lookout for something as simple to make as the pleated mask, but better fitting.
Take a look at this mask: https://aplat.com/blogs/shus-notebook/diy-cloth-face-mask
Advantages: Super simple for even a novice seamstress to make, It does not need a nose wire to stay in position. It "cups" the face very well, giving a really close fit. When made with 3 layers or a crisp fabric, it doesn't collapse against the face when you breathe. You can insert a coffee filter or similar for extra protection. The ties can be placed in a number of different positions on your head, making it adaptable for many people. It can be made with elastic instead of ties if you prefer.
Tips for mask sewers: 36" or 42" shoelaces work perfectly as ties (47" must be for a really big guy!) Be sure to leave enough space for threading the cord when you sew the original seams. You can play with the depth of the folds or the distance of the last top stitching from the sides to fit larger and smaller faces. If interlined or interfaced, no extra filter needed.
Off to make another - I have a friend coming to walk with me!
Sue