Good Neighbor Bandana - Free Sewing Pattern
Good Neighbor Bandana - Free Sewing Pattern
Good Neighbor Bandana Digital PDF Pattern
78-year-old neighbor asked me to make her an alternative face covering. She showed me the mask she already owned and listed all the characteristics she didn't like about it. Her list included having skin irritations caused by the elastic, feeling suffocated while wearing the mask in the grocery store, and the inability to wash it. I told her I would make something for her that addressed all of those issues. I made the first iteration of this bandana and wore it for two weeks to test it. I wore it to the market, on my daily hikes, and even during vigorous exercise. Good news! My neighbor loves her bandana. She says it's comfortable, she can breathe and talk with it on, and it discourages her from touching her face!
This is a digital PDF pattern only. No physical goods are included.
Instant Download:
This is a digital pattern only. Your pattern will be available to download as a PDF file once your payment is processed. Please download within 24 hours.
Overview:
Video Introduction and Demo: https://youtu.be/rT3_yg5hTo4
Like so many of you, I've been battling feelings of helplessness while watching our world be upended by a global pandemic. I initially felt paralyzed by fear. As the days passed, however, I made a conscious decision to work through my fear, I began to channel my nervous energy into creative energy with the goal of serving my community.
Objective:
I did not want to make a fabric surgical mask. I set out to design a functional, but scaled-back face covering. I designed this accessory with my signature minimalist approach to fashion to be consistent with my values and aesthetic.
Disclaimer:
This face covering is NOT A MASK. Please do not use this pattern when making masks for donation to medical facilities.
This bandana is NOT a substitute for social distancing and frequent hand washing.
This bandana IS appropriate for those who want to comply with the CDC's recommendation to cover one’s face when heading outdoors.
This bandana IS appropriate for the average person including humans with beards.
Construction:
It was also important that the materials and construction be in line with my personal values and brand. I used tightly woven quilting cotton that I purchased from my local Center for Creative Reuse. I designed it without elastic, as elastic has become a commodity during this crisis AND can cause discomfort when worn against the skin for a prolonged time. I also designed it without the use of bias binding. When we cut fabric at a 45 degree angle, we create waste. I wanted my bandana to be as materials-conscious as possible and also cost-effective. Instead, I cut the tie on the crossgrain, as woven fabrics will stretch more toward the weft. I settled on a single tie bandana that allows the wearer to breathe freely but protects others from a potential sneeze or cough.
This is a free pattern. If you enjoyed making and wearing this bandana and you would like to support my small business, please donate here.