elastic solutions
The science behind ear loops that last
Elastic Recovery is the ability of a material to return to its original shape and length after being stretched.
In this video, Malena conducts a test to compare the elastic recovery of common ear loop materials.
Test Results
Comparing Solutions
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The solutions in this section are not scientifically backed, due to the fact that elastic solutions do not need any form of testing. These materials do not need to filter particles, because the end use of these materials are for securing the face mask. As long as a material helps keep the mask in place, fits snugly, and is comfortable for the wearer, it can be used as an elastic solution. These solutions have seen widening usage in the production of homemade cloth masks. The purpose of this section is to help others find solutions to elastic from a textile student who can offer some guidance. Due to the shortages that are being experienced during this pandemic, elastic has become hard to obtain. Let's talk about how to work around it.
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Elastic
Due to the shortages, it may be hard to find some that will work for the mask projects. If you have a serger or overlock machine, you can cut thicker elastic (such as ½” wide) in half and serge the raw edges. This helps the elastic fit better behind the ears and doubles your elastic.
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Hair ties
There have been mainly two different types of hair ties that have been seen made in masks. The normal sized average thick one and the slightly bigger and thinner ones. Either one will work, the deciding factor is comfort for the wearer.
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Fabric Ties
​Sewn ties are being made out of fabric, and tied at the back of the head and base of the neck area. The fabric ties should be made with woven fabrics.
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Fabric Ties with Velcro
​This is similar to the fabrics ties in where they fasten, but there is velcro to help with the fit of the head. This method may be more secure and less likely to move instead of just normal ties. The velcro fabric ties should be made with woven fabrics.
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T-shirt Ties
​Fabric ties being made out of old t-shirts and knits will not retain their shape and will be stretched out. DO NOT use T-shirts and knits when making fabric ties for face masks. This will cause sagging of the mask over long periods of time, reducing the snug fit of the mask and the effectiveness of filtration.