FACE TO FACE

Today we met as a group face to face socially distanced of course to discuss further development for our face mask production as a team.

Damarni (pattern cutter) has created a calico version of a mask made as a prototype for design. The mask designed is a snood type face covering allowing user to have it on their neck and simply pull up when needed. The use of a snood covering puts a stop to fumbling around pockets and bag to get the mask out when entering a shop. The mask can be kept on at all times while out but ensures comfort. Let face it no one wants a mask on for a full day but an essential item with the current government rules for COVID-19.

Collectively our aim is not only to produce a sustainable mask but to ensure it is practical and comfortable for all Buyers. With COVID-19 only hitting the UK badly in February 2020 and mask becoming mandatory shortly after, in all indoor facilities the market for face coverings/mask is already huge. Mask are being made from small independent business, individuals via social media for friends and family to huge chain stores such as Apple and Nike.

As a team we need to make our mask stand out from the rest while keeping cost to a minimum. The whole fashion world is slowly but surely switching to become more sustainable and having that as one of our priority sets us on the right path. However, we need to create a face covering/mask that has other benefits to our customers.

Types of masks/ covering

As shown above there are a number of masks out there ranging from £2 to £30+. Some are better designed than other to actually protect and other are designed for fashion purposes.

Personally, I prefer a thinner mask that is pleated to fit around my face, All faces and heads are different therefore the mask fit different but the pleated and adjustable elastic allows any mast to be adjusted to fit correct. As no one knows how long face covering are going to be mandatory more and more people are investing into a face mask right for them at a little more of a cost.

So how can we make out mask best for everyone?

1. To have an elasticated band to prevent the mask slipping down the face but loose enough to be comfortable.

2. A tightening toggle to adjust the sizing so that the mask can fit from age 12+ .

3. Snood style so that the mask can be kept around the neck and forgotten about, making the task of putting the mask over the face when entering shops etc easier.

4. Using a breathable lightweight Fabric that is also sustainable and easily washed.

REFERENCE

Design boom. (2020).apple has revealed its own face mask design, can we soon buy it?. Design Boom. https://www.designboom.com/design/apple-face-mask-09-11-2020/

HELLO magazine. (2020).Face masks ultimate guide: Rules, styles & where to buy the best masks. HELLO Magazine. https://www.hellomagazine.com/healthandbeauty/health-and-fitness/2020092998076/face-masks-ultimate-guide/