Lip reading cloth face mask with clear vinyl window. This pleated cotton face mask shows the mouth to help with communication.

During this interesting historical moment, I’ve redirected a huge amount of my creative efforts to sewing masks. I’ve recently learned that there is a need among the deaf community and others (speech pathologists, educators of young children, etc.) to have a face mask which allows the mouth to be seen to aid in communication and lip reading.

I researched different ways to make this type of mask and after several prototypes, I came up with the pattern for this pleated mask with a clear vinyl window.

The design is based off of a versatile pleated style which gives great coverage from the bridge of the nose to well below the bottom of the chin on most adults.

A removable bendable wire is tucked in a slender channel on the top edge of the mask to help the mask fit your face and protect glasses from fogging.

Open fabric binding on both sides holds a soft elastic loop that fits comfortably over the ears. Because the elastic is not sewn to the mask, it can easily be removed to be tightened or replaced. If you prefer to have drawstring, ribbon, or even shoelaces to tie the mask instead, you would be able to pass these materials easily through the binding.

Dimensions of the folded mask are about 8” by 3.5” and it is sewn with 100% cotton or cotton blend fabric.

Wash by hand only with soap or detergent, air dry. Do not iron as this will melt the vinyl!

Due to humidity from breathing, the window may fog up and obscure the mouth. Though I haven’t tried it myself yet, I have read that one can use anti fogging agents normally used to prevent fogging if swim goggles if this is a problem.

Please don’t hesitate to ask me questions and I will definitely be willing to work with you if you have special concerns about masks or how they fit. If you need a mask but are unable to afford one, please let me know and I will help you out to the best of my capacity with a discount or donation.

Happy mask wearing and stay safe out there, beautiful people! ❤️❤️❤️

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