Masks of 2020

It has been a year of masks.  I have sewn more than we have kept. 

Started off using what I call the New York pattern.  It is a pleated mask with ties.  Found that it helps to make sure the pleats are deep enough so the mask bottom is just at the chin or barely below.

The second pattern I tried was the denim mask pattern. Joanns had a link for it.  This one was a bit better than the pleated mask. Both this and the New York pattern were pointed out by a friend who is retired.

And then another friend provided a link to the Craft Passion pattern. Which I used for a number of masks. I was making the option with both a nose wire holder and a pocket for more material. Found that I forget to put the wire in and don't use the pocket.

Most of the masks are made from left over fabric.  I did purchase some fabric for lining and non floral for men. The Halloween and Christmas masks are from left over fabric because why not have something seasonal when a mask is worn frequently.

 And then one of my friends point me to another mask pattern that amounts to origami with fabric.  These are the two trial masks to see how they work.  They do provide better coverage than the other patterns.

Tour de Fleece - super wash

One of the few fiber events that happened this year after February.  The organizers decide due to its being online and people not getting through usual fiber fixes to hold as scheduled.

I started with super wash wool purchased years ago at the Taos Wool Festival from Fiber Fanatic.  The label said four ounces but really it was closer to eight.   With no receipt, I couldn't tell what I paid.  Also, have no idea if I paid for the correct amount or not.  It does make me wonder if it is truly super wash.

I choose to use my Ackerworks Bobbins for the singles with a 12:1 ratio.   Had my usual tension problems shown by the over twist that can be seen.

The singles stuffed two bobbins.  They turned out pretty even.  

The ply was a 8.5:1 ratio resulting in a two ply approximately worsted weight yarn.  The total yardage in two skeins was about 450 yards.  This will be enough for a scarf.