Tuesday, June 2, 2020

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How to Be Prepared for a Hike

Posted: 02 Jun 2020 05:00 PM PDT

Hiking is a great way to spend time outdoors and get a lot of exercise. While you may be eager to go out into the wilderness, taking time to prepare for your hike will help keep you safe and comfortable. Even if you're just going out for a day hike, there are essentials you should bring with you. If you plan on going on a more advanced hike, warm up with some exercise beforehand so you don't get exhausted later on. As long as you plan ahead, you'll be ready to take on any hike!

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Planning Your Hike

  1. Choose a trail that's within your skill level. If you're a beginner and you haven't had a lot of experience hiking, pick shorter trails that have gentle inclines so you don't get as tired. If you have more experience hiking, you can also try wilderness trails that are steeper or have more difficult footing. Only choose long, steep trails if you've been hiking a lot since they can be dangerous to attempt them if you aren't prepared for the conditions.[1]
    Be Prepared for a Hike Step 1 Version 5.jpg
  2. Check the route and trail conditions online if you can. Search the park's website for a trail map or use a hiking website, like AllTrails or Hiking Project, to find trails near you. Pay attention to how long the trail is and how long it normally takes to complete the round-trip. A few days before and on the morning of your hike, check the conditions to see if they've changed and affected the route. Make note of the trail condition so you can wear shoes that offer the most support.[2]
    Be Prepared for a Hike Step 2 Version 6.jpg
    • Trails do close from time to time, so always be sure to check if they're open before you leave for your hike.
    • Many other hikers rate and describe the trails they use, so read through them to see if the trail is right for you.
    • Keep track of the amount of time you've been hiking and leave the same amount of time before sunset so you can get back to your starting point before dark.
  3. Look up the weather forecast so you can plan your outfit. Check the hourly forecast to see how warm it's going to be during your hike. If it's going to be cold, you'll have to pack more layers so you stay warm. Also be sure to check if it's going to rain, since you may want to bring a rain jacket or waterproof clothes so you stay dry.[3]
    Be Prepared for a Hike Step 3 Version 5.jpg
    • The temperature can drop quickly if you change altitudes during your hike, so bring extra layers of clothes in case you get cold.
  4. Choose to hike in the morning or afternoon while the sun is out. Trails are usually less busy in the morning and temperatures are cooler so you'll feel more comfortable. Otherwise, pick a time in the afternoon while the sun is still out. Avoid hiking after dark if you can since you may not notice uneven trails and could get lost.[4]
    Be Prepared for a Hike Step 4 Version 5.jpg
    • Your pace may vary depending on the difficulty of the trail. and an additional 30 minutes for every of uphill elevation. So a flat loop would take about 2 hours to complete.}}
  5. Learn about what dangerous animals may live in the area. Hiking in the wilderness is great for getting closer to nature, but there may be some animals to avoid. Search on the park or trail's website to find out what animals have been spotted in the area and what you should do if you encounter one.[5]
    Be Prepared for a Hike Step 5 Version 5.jpg
    • For example, there could be bears, wolves, or mountain lions in your area.
    • Most animals are as scared of you as you are scared of them. Usually, animals will avoid you as long as you avoid them.
  6. Ask someone to hike with you so you stay safe. Avoid hiking alone since you won't be able to reach someone in case there's an emergency. Talk to other friends that hike and see if they want to come with you. Otherwise, you may be able to find hiking groups in your area. Try using an app like Meetup or checking for flyers at an outdoor supply store.[6]
    Be Prepared for a Hike Step 6 Version 5.jpg
    • Ask the person what distance they're comfortable hiking. You may need to adjust your route if they aren't as experienced.
  7. Tell other people where you're hiking and how long you'll be gone. Before you leave, talk to other friends and family members and let them know exactly where you're going. Show them a map of the trail and mention what time you plan to be finished. That way, someone knows where you are in case there's an emergency.[7]
    Be Prepared for a Hike Step 7 Version 5.jpg
    • While you're out on the hike, try to check in on a set schedule so your friends and family know you're safe.

[Edit]Dressing and Packing

  1. Wear breathable layers of clothing. Even if you're hiking in the heat of summer, bring multiple layers of thin, breathable clothes just in case it gets colder. Pack a long-sleeved shirt and a pair of pants so that you can put them on over your other clothes. Choose fabrics that are labeled "moisture-wicking" to help you stay cool and dry throughout the hike.[8]
    Be Prepared for a Hike Step 8 Version 5.jpg
    • Avoid cotton clothing since it holds moisture and can get heavy.
    • Opt for lighter colors since you'll feel cooler and you'll be able to spot any ticks or pests easier.
  2. Put on trail shoes or hiking boots for the best foot support. If you're only going on a light hike on an easy trail, you can probably get away with wearing a comfortable pair of tennis shoes. Otherwise, look for trail shoes or hiking boots that are stiff so you don't sprain or twist your ankle. Make sure your shoes or boots fit tightly and are comfortable since you'll be walking in them for a few hours.[9]
    Be Prepared for a Hike Step 9 Version 5.jpg
    • If you're breaking in new shoes or boots, wear them out for hikes that are to break them in. As they get more comfortable, increase your distance.
  3. Carry your cell phone with you at all times. Make sure your cell phone is in a convenient location where you won't lose it. Put it in your pocket, an arm band, or a backpack so it can't fall out. Use your phone to take pictures, track your location, watch the time, and to make phone calls if there's an emergency.[10]
    Be Prepared for a Hike Step 10 Version 5.jpg
    • Check in with other friends and family throughout your hike so they know you're safe.
    • Consider bringing a portable charger for your phone just in case the battery dies while you're on the trail.
    • You may not get service depending on where you're hiking.
  4. Use a backpack with chest or waist straps. Choose a lightweight backpack so you don't have a lot of weight to carry. Try to find something that fits well on your back and has comfortable padding on the straps. Check if there are straps that go around your chest and waist so you don't have so much weight on your shoulders throughout the hike.[11]
    Be Prepared for a Hike Step 11 Version 5.jpg
    • Hiking backpacks are more lightweight and have more convenient storage than regular backpacks. You can buy one from an outdoor supply store, but they usually will cost around $50–200 USD.
    • Avoid stuffing your backpack full since it will get really heavy and will be difficult to carry.
  5. Take a map and compass in case you get lost. Even if you have a GPS on your phone, you may need to use a map in an emergency. Try to find a topographical map of the area so you can easily locate landmarks and trails. Make sure you have a compass so you can determine which direction you're facing.[12]
    Be Prepared for a Hike Step 12 Version 5.jpg
    • You can usually get a trail map at a park ranger's stations or a visitor center.
    • As a quick reference, remember that the sun rises in the east and sets in the west. If you find the sun in the sky, you can get a rough idea of which direction you're facing.
  6. Bring nutritious snacks with carbs and proteins to help you stay energized. Avoid fatty or sugary snacks since they won't provide as many nutrients. Instead, look for snacks that have lots of carbs or proteins, such as beef jerky, nuts, trail mix, or granola bars. You can also eat fruit and vegetables if you want something fresh. Always pack enough food so you have enough for an extra day just in case there's an emergency.[13]
    Be Prepared for a Hike Step 13 Version 5.jpg
    • Other foods you can bring include dried fruit, seeds, tuna or salmon pouches, and cheese.[14]
    • Keep any food packaging in your backpack so you can throw it away properly later.
  7. Pack of water for every hour you'll be gone. Look for insulated water bottles so it stays cold while you're hiking. Look at how much time it takes to hike the trail and have at least per hour. Keep the water bottles in an easy-to-reach spot in the side or top pockets of your backpack.[15]
    Be Prepared for a Hike Step 14 Version 2.jpg
    • You may need more water if there are high temperatures or if you're hiking a more strenuous trail.
  8. Apply bug spray and sunscreen every 2 hours while hiking. Look for bug spray that has DEET since it helps repel mosquitoes, flies, and ticks more efficiently. If the sun is out, get sunscreen that's at least 30 SPF and rub it into any exposed skin. Reapply the bug spray and sunscreen about every 2 hours since the other applications will sweat off.[16]
    Be Prepared for a Hike Step 15 Version 2.jpg
    • You can also wear a hat and sunglasses to keep the sun out of your eyes.
    • Check your legs and pants for ticks if you walk through tall grass.
  9. Keep an emergency kit in your pack in case of an accident. Include bandages and disinfectant so you can help with minor scrapes and cuts. Also pack a signal mirror, a piece of bright-colored cloth, and a whistle to make it easier to get someone else's attention from a distance. Carry a headlamp with you just in case it gets dark so you can see the trail and are more visible to other people. Put matches and a pocket knife or multi-tool in the kit as well so you can start a fire and make repairs to your gear if you need to.[17]
    Be Prepared for a Hike Step 16 Version 2.jpg
    • If you're planning a multi-day trip, plan on bringing a tent or emergency shelter as well.
  10. Use trekking poles to help brace your knees. Trekking poles are sturdy walking sticks that take pressure off your knees so you don't feel as sore at the end of your hike. Adjust the height of your trekking poles so they reach the ground when you have your elbows bent at 90 degrees. Make sure the poles have a comfortable grip, or else your hands will get sore as you use them.[18]
    Be Prepared for a Hike Step 17 Version 2.jpg
    • You can buy trekking poles from your local outdoor supply store.
    • You do not need trekking poles for your hike if you don't want them.

[Edit]Conditioning for Advanced Hikes

  1. Eat a meal with carbs and protein before your hike. Carbs and protein help give your body energy so you don't get exhausted while you're out on your hike. Opt for something like oatmeal, eggs, pasta, and lean meat since they're nutritious. Incorporate fruits and vegetables into your meal as well for additional carbs and natural sugars.[19]
    Be Prepared for a Hike Step 23.jpg
    • Avoid overeating since you may feel uncomfortable while you're out hiking.
  2. Go for long walks 2–3 times a week. Walk at a comfortable pace where you can still hold a conversation without breathing heavily. Start with walks that are about 30–60 minutes long so you don't get too worn out. Take a rest day between walks so you don't get any sprains. At least once a week, go on a walk that's 2 hours or longer so you can build your stamina. By the time you go on your hike, you should be comfortable going on walks that last 4–6 hours.[20]
    Be Prepared for a Hike Step 18 Version 2.jpg
    • Try walking on different terrains since hiking trails aren't usually paved.
    • Track how far you walk using your phone or smartwatch so you know your pace.
    • Take the stairs whenever you can so you get used to climbing elevation.
  3. Incorporate squats and lunges into your workout to strengthen your legs. Keep your back straight and feet shoulder-width apart. To do a squat, bend your knees until they're at a 90-degree angle. Hold the position for a count before standing up again. If you want to do a lunge, step forward with 1 leg and bend your knees at 90-degree angles. Push yourself back up to a standing position. Do 2–3 sets that are 10 reps each.[21]
    Be Prepared for a Hike Step 20 Version 2.jpg
    • Working out your legs prevents them from getting sore and exhausted while you're in the middle of your hike.
    • Hold dumbbells while performing squats or lunges if you want to build more muscle.
  4. Exercise your core to improve your balance. You'll have to carry hiking gear and supplies, so it may be difficult to keep your balance on uneven trails. Try doing 10–20 sit-ups or holding a plank position for 30 seconds to help you build up your core. Aim to do 2–3 sets of each exercise at least 2–3 times per week.[22]
    Be Prepared for a Hike Step 21 Version 2.jpg
  5. Try foot exercises to prevent sprains and aches. Spread a towel flat on the floor and set your foot on top of it. Keep your heel still and grab the towel with your toes. Pull the towel closer toward your heel before stretching your foot out again. Do this 5 times with each foot. You can also pick up marbles with your toes and drop them into a cup as an alternative way to stretch your arches.[23]
    Be Prepared for a Hike Step 22 Version 2.jpg
    • If your feet get sore, lay a cold bottle horizontal on the floor and roll your foot over it.
  6. Practice cardio exercises to help increase your stamina. Even though going for a walk is a cardio exercise, try doing something that's more high-intensity a few times a week. Focus on cardio exercises that work your legs, such as running, cycling, soccer, or swimming. Work on your cardio at least 2–3 times a week on top of your walks.[24]
    Be Prepared for a Hike Step 19 Version 2.jpg
    • Include high-intensity cardio in your walks. For example, you could jog for 10–20 minutes in the middle of your walk to raise your heart rate.

[Edit]Tips

  • Know your limits when you're planning a hike and don't choose a route that's too long or difficult for you to complete.
  • While you're out on your hike, don't leave any waste behind and don't disturb any nature so you don't leave any trace. That way, you preserve the wildlife and trail conditions for others.[25]

[Edit]Warnings

  • Always tell someone where you're hiking and how long you expect to be gone if you go hiking alone. Check in with them frequently so they know you're safe.
  • Avoid overpacking since you'll have more weight to carry and you could get exhausted.
  • The temperature can change quickly while you're hiking, so take a few extra layers of clothing just in case.

[Edit]Things You'll Need

  • Breathable clothes
  • Trail shoes or hiking boots
  • Backpack
  • Cell phone
  • Water bottles
  • Map
  • Compass
  • Bug spray
  • Sunscreen
  • First aid kit
  • Signal mirror
  • Whistle
  • Duct tape
  • Matches
  • Pocket knife
  • Trekking poles

[Edit]Related wikiHows

[Edit]References

  1. https://www.girlscoutsosw.org/content/dam/oregon-sw-washington-/forms/GSOSW_Hike_Selection_Guide.pdf
  2. https://www.nps.gov/articles/hiking-safety.htm
  3. https://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/28708.html
  4. https://www.seattleymca.org/blog/how-prepare-your-next-hike
  5. https://www.nps.gov/articles/hiking-safety.htm
  6. https://www.nps.gov/appa/planyourvisit/safety.htm
  7. https://www.seattleymca.org/blog/how-prepare-your-next-hike
  8. https://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/28708.html
  9. https://americanhiking.org/resources/hiking-boots/
  10. https://www.seattleymca.org/blog/how-prepare-your-next-hike
  11. https://youtu.be/JcfYXSR-Jtc?t=25
  12. https://www.nps.gov/articles/10essentials.htm
  13. https://www.nps.gov/articles/10essentials.htm
  14. https://www.wildlandtrekking.com/blog/best-foods-to-eat-while-hiking/
  15. https://americanhiking.org/resources/10essentials/
  16. https://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/28708.html
  17. https://www.seattleymca.org/blog/how-prepare-your-next-hike
  18. https://americanhiking.org/resources/trekking-poles/
  19. https://www.wildlandtrekking.com/blog/best-foods-to-eat-while-hiking/
  20. https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/trekking-training-guide-tips/
  21. https://www.nzwalks.com/what-you-need-2/how-to-prepare-for-a-hike/
  22. https://www.nzwalks.com/what-you-need-2/how-to-prepare-for-a-hike/
  23. https://www.wta.org/go-outside/trail-smarts/how-to/how-to-avoid-common-hiking-injuries
  24. https://www.nzwalks.com/what-you-need-2/how-to-prepare-for-a-hike/
  25. https://www.nps.gov/articles/leave-no-trace-seven-principles.htm

How to Clean Copper

Posted: 02 Jun 2020 09:00 AM PDT

Copper makes beautiful jewelry, household items, and decor, and you likely want to keep your items looking their best. However, exposure to oxygen causes copper to develop a black patina over time and your pieces might become stained. Fortunately, you can restore the rose gold luster of your favorite copper pieces using products you likely have in your home. With a little elbow-grease, you may be able to get your precious pieces looking new again.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Using Vinegar and Salt

  1. Combine equal parts vinegar and salt to make a paste. Pour the salt into a clean bowl, then slowly add the vinegar. Use a spoon to stir the ingredients together to make a paste. Keep stirring until the paste appears consistent.[1]

    Clean Copper Step 1 Version 5.jpg
    • The measurements don't need to be exact.
    • Vinegar may be enough to remove oxidization on your piece of copper.[2]
  2. Apply the paste to a clean towel. Dip your clean towel into the paste to coat the towel. Get a generous amount of paste onto the towel so there's enough to scrub the copper piece.[3]

    • You can use any type of clean towel. For instance, a dishcloth or paper towel will work great.
  3. Scrub your copper piece with the salt and vinegar. Use the towel to rub the salt and vinegar paste into the copper item. Rub the dark stains vigorously to help remove them. Apply a firm, even pressure to pull up the stain.[4]

    • As you clean the copper piece, dip the towel in the paste again as needed to apply more paste.
    • Only use salt and water if you're cleaning a delicate surface.[5]
  4. Use a toothbrush to work the paste into dents. If your copper item has dents or crevices that are stained, scrub these spots with a toothbrush. Apply the vinegar and salt paste to the toothbrush, then work the bristles into the grooves to help remove the dark spots.[6]

    • Apply more paste to the toothbrush as needed to clean the copper.
    • If you still see marks on the surface, try lightly scrubbing the surface with fine-grit sandpaper.[7]
  5. Rinse off the paste and wipe your piece dry. Hold the copper item under warm running water to remove the excess paste. Use your fingers to gently wipe off the paste. Then, use a clean towel to wipe your copper item dry.[8]
    Clean Copper Step 5 Version 5.jpg
    • If there are any spots remaining on the copper, apply pressure with the cloth to remove them.

[Edit]Boiling Away Tough Stains

  1. Combine vinegar, water, and salt in a large pot. Measure out of vinegar into a large pot, then add 1 tbsp (17 g) of salt. Use a measuring cup add of warm water to the pot. Then, stir the ingredients to combine them.[9]

    Clean Copper Step 6 Version 5.jpg
    • If you're cleaning a large copper piece, use a bigger pot and double the ingredients for the cleaning solution.
  2. Submerge your copper piece in the solution. It's safest to put the copper into the pot before you start boiling the solution. Place the item into the pot and make sure the stains are covered by the cleaning solution. It's okay if part of the item is not covered, as long as you aren't trying to clean the exposed area. [10]

    Clean Copper Step 7 Version 5.jpg
    • It's okay to clean more than 1 piece at a time if they all fit into the pot. For instance, you might clean 2 copper mugs at the same time or a handful of copper jewelry pieces.
  3. Bring the solution to a boil over high heat. Turn the burner on high heat to heat the pot. Monitor the pot as it heats to boiling. After it reaches boiling, adjust the heat to keep it at a rolling boil.[11]

    Clean Copper Step 8 Version 4.jpg
    • Stay near the pot while it's heating to make sure it doesn't boil over.
  4. Watch for the stains to fade from the copper. The vinegar and salt will draw out the stains or black patina. Check the water to see if the discoloration is leaching out of the copper and into the solution. Let the item boil for up 15 minutes.[12]

    Clean Copper Step 9 Version 4.jpg
    • If the item looks clean before you get to 15 minutes, it's okay to turn off the pot early.
  5. Turn off the heat so the copper piece can cool. After 15 minutes, turn off the burner so that the solution and the copper item will start to cool. Leave the pot to cool for 30 minutes to an hour.[13]

    Clean Copper Step 10 Version 4.jpg
    • Don't try to handle the copper while it's still hot. The metal may burn your hand, so be careful.
  6. Scrub the cooled copper piece with a dry cloth. Remove the copper item from the solution and use a soft, clean cloth to dry it. Use firm pressure as your rub the copper to buff it into a shine.[14]

    • If you see any remaining stains, rub them vigorously with your cloth to try to buff them out.

[Edit]Removing Tough Stains with a Lemon or Lime

  1. Cut a lemon or lime in half. Hold a lemon or lime on a cutting board. Then, use a sharp knife to slice it in half. Keep both halves of the fruit to use as a cleaner.[15]

    • You can use either a lemon or a lime to clean copper, but lemons are more commonly used.
  2. Dip 1 half of the lemon or lime in salt. Pour a small amount of salt on a plate, then press the fleshy part of the lemon or lime into the salt. Apply a thin layer of salt over the fruit flesh.[16]

    Clean Copper Step 13 Version 4.jpg
    • Leave some salt on the plate so you can dip the fruit in more salt as needed.
  3. Scrub the lemon or lime over the copper. Use light pressure to press the fleshy part of the lemon or lime into the copper item. Vigorously rub the copper to remove the stains or patina. Pay special attention to areas that have dark stains.[17]

    • Dip the lemon or lime half in the salt as needed. If the first lemon or lime half starts to squish before the item is clean, switch to the second half and resume scrubbing.
  4. Rinse off the copper piece with warm water. Hold the copper item under a stream of warm water until you don't see anymore fruit flesh or salt. Turn the item over in your hands as you rinse it so that it's thoroughly cleaned.[18]

    Clean Copper Step 15 Version 4.jpg
  5. Wipe the copper piece with a dry cloth. Use a soft, clean cloth to dry the copper item. Apply a firm pressure to lightly buff the piece.[19]

    • If you notice any remaining stains, vigorously rub those spots with your cloth to help bring them up.

[Edit]Scrubbing the Copper with Ketchup

  1. Apply a dollop of ketchup to a clean rag. Use a clean dish cloth or paper towel. Squeeze the ketchup onto the cloth or dip the cloth in the ketchup.[20]

    Clean Copper Step 17 Version 3.jpg
    • Keep the ketchup nearby so you can apply more as necessary. For large pieces, you may use a lot of ketchup.
    • The acids in the ketchup dissolve copper stains.
  2. Sprinkle salt onto the ketchup for added effectiveness. While using salt is optional, it might the ketchup more effective. To use the salt, simply sprinkle a light layer on top of your ketchup. The ketchup and salt will mix together as you scrub the copper.[21]

    • Add more salt each time you add additional ketchup.
  3. Scrub the mixture into the copper, leaving a thin layer. Use your cloth and firm pressure to apply the ketchup-salt mixture over the surface of the copper. Vigorously rub the areas that are stained. Apply the ketchup in a thin layer over the copper item.[22]

    • If you're treating a small stain, it's okay to only apply the ketchup to that area. However, it's also okay to treat a large item with ketchup.
  4. Let the ketchup sit on the piece for 30 minutes for tough stains. You don't need to let the ketchup sit on small stains that are coming up with scrubbing. However, leaving the ketchup in place for up to 30 minutes can draw out the stain more easily. Set a timer and wait for the ketchup to work.[23]
    Clean Copper Step 20 Version 3.jpg
    • You can always try scrubbing first and then let the ketchup sit on the item if it's not coming clean.
  5. Rinse off the ketchup-salt mixture with warm water. Hold the copper item under running water to rinse it clean. Use your fingers to scrub off any stuck-on ketchup. Keep rinsing until the water runs clear and the item looks clean.[24]
    Clean Copper Step 21 Version 3.jpg
    • Use a toothbrush to remove stuck-on ketchup spots.
  6. Dry the copper with a clean cloth. Use a soft, clean cloth to dry the copper item. Apply a firm pressure to the piece to lightly buff it. Additionally, vigorously rub any areas that still look stained.[25]

    Clean Copper Step 22 Version 3.jpg

[Edit]Video

[Edit]Tips

  • It's normal for copper pieces to turn black over time because of oxidation.

[Edit]Warnings

  • Decorative lacquered items should only be washed in soapy water and dried thoroughly. Polishing or scrubbing such copper items will remove their protective coating.[26]

[Edit]Things You'll Need

[Edit]Using Vinegar and Salt

  • Vinegar
  • Salt
  • Cloth
  • Water

[Edit]Boiling Away Tough Stains

  • Large pot
  • Vinegar
  • Water
  • Salt
  • Cloth

[Edit]Removing Tough Stains with a Lemon or Lime

  • Lemon or lime
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Salt
  • Water
  • Cloth

[Edit]Scrubbing the Copper with Ketchup

  • Ketchup
  • Salt
  • Cloth
  • Container (optional)
  • Water

[Edit]Related wikiHows


[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

  1. https://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/cleaning/how-to-clean-copper
  2. [v161150_b01]. 22 September 2019.
  3. https://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/cleaning/how-to-clean-copper
  4. https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-clean-copper/
  5. [v161150_b01]. 22 September 2019.
  6. https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-clean-copper/
  7. [v161150_b01]. 22 September 2019.
  8. https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-clean-copper/
  9. https://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/cleaning/how-to-clean-copper
  10. https://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/cleaning/how-to-clean-copper
  11. https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-clean-copper/
  12. https://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/cleaning/how-to-clean-copper
  13. https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-clean-copper/
  14. https://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/cleaning/how-to-clean-copper
  15. https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-clean-copper/
  16. https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-clean-copper/
  17. https://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/cleaning/how-to-clean-copper
  18. https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-clean-copper/
  19. https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-clean-copper/
  20. https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/cleaning/a20161708/how-to-clean-copper/
  21. https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/cleaning/a20161708/how-to-clean-copper/
  22. https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/cleaning/a20161708/how-to-clean-copper/
  23. https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/how-to-clean-copper-and-brass-with-ketchup-223741
  24. https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/how-to-clean-copper-and-brass-with-ketchup-223741
  25. https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/cleaning/a20161708/how-to-clean-copper/
  26. https://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/cleaning/how-to-clean-copper

How to Sew a Simple Medical Mask

Posted: 02 Jun 2020 01:00 AM PDT

You might want to wear a fabric medical mask to help prevent the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus. Additionally, sewing and donating fabric masks is a great way to help healthcare providers who are on the front lines of the pandemic. Although fabric masks aren't as effective as medical-grade masks, they may provide some protection against germs.[1] Fortunately, these masks are very simple to make, even if you're just learning to sew. If you have a bit more sewing experience, you can create a medical mask with a more complex design.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Simple Mask Template

[Edit]Cutting Your Fabric

  1. Clean your hands and work area before making a mask. When you're making a medical mask, it's important to use good hygiene. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds to make sure they're clean. Additionally, use bleach wipes or a bleach spray to disinfect your tools and work surface.[2]

    Sew a Simple Medical Mask Step 1 Version 2.jpg
    • If you're making masks to donate to health care providers, consider wearing a face mask while you make them. This way you won't accidentally breathe, cough, or sneeze on the masks you're making.
  2. Pick a heavy-weight, tight-woven fabric, such as cotton. A tight weave will provide better protection from germs. Use a cute decorative fabric if you have it. However, you can also use a heavy-weight T-shirt or pillowcase if that's all you have.[3]

    Sew a Simple Medical Mask Step 2 Version 2.jpg
    • You may be able to get free supplies from a local fabric or craft store if you're donating the masks. For instance, Joann Fabrics will provide the materials you need to make masks for donations, free of charge.[4]
  3. Print and cut out the CDC-approved pattern. Click this link to access the pattern: https://www.coxhealth.com/innovation/masks/. Check that the pattern will print at the actual size, then print it out and double-check the scale to make sure it's right. Use your scissors to cut out the fabric.[5]

    • If you don't have a printer, just cut out a rectangle that's wide x tall. Then, reference the pattern as a guide while you're working. This mask is pretty easy to make.
  4. Trace the pattern onto your fabric and cut it out. Lay the fabric on your work surface with the "good" side facing down. Place the pattern on the fabric, then use a pencil or fabric chalk to trace around it. Finally, use fabric scissors (or sharp scissors) to cut out the rectangle.[6]

    • Keep the pattern nearby because it'll help you figure out where to fold the fabric when you're making the body of the mask.
  5. Cut two strips of fabric to use for ties. Using fabric ties makes it easier to construct your mask, as you need fewer materials. Additionally, you can easily adjust the fit of your mask by tightening or loosening the ties. Use fabric scissors to cut your ties.[7]

    • If you have fabric with different patterns or colors, you might want to use a different fabric for your straps. or wide. Cut two strips of elastic for each mask.[8]}}

[Edit]Making the Mask

  1. Fold the top edge of the backside over a fabric tie. Place the fabric you're using for the mask body on your workspace with the "good" side down. Lay the first fabric tie down on the top of the rectangle. Make sure the fabric strip is centered so that there's an equal length on either side of the mask. Then, fold the top edge of the backside of the mask over the fabric strip.[9]

    • To make sure your straps stay in place, line up the rough edge of the fabric with the bottom of the fabric strip.
  2. Sew along the top to secure the fabric strip. Use your sewing machine or a needle and thread to do straight stitches along the rough edge of the fabric. Go all the way across from 1 end of the fabric to the other. Leave the sides open so you can insert a wire.[10]

    • This stitch will hold the fabric tie in place and leave a small tunnel at the top of the mask.
  3. Insert metal floral wire into the pocket at the top of the mask. Cut about of floral wire. Slide the metal wire into the tunnel you just created when you stitched down the top strap. Use your fingers to push the wire into place at the top of the mask. This wire will allow the wearer to adjust the mask around their nose.[11]

    • If you don't have any metal wire, use a twisty tie. Just strip off the paper first, as it will come off in the wash if you don't.
  4. Make 3 small folds over the center of the mask to create pleats. The pleating helps the mask contour to the wearer's face. Make the first fold about below the top of your mask. Then, make another fold and pin the pleat in place. Repeat the process once more to create a total of 3 pleats. Leave about of fabric at the bottom so you can attach the other strap.[12]

    • Use the mask pattern as a guide for making your pleats.
  5. Stitch up the sides of the mask to secure the pleats and wire. Once you've folded all of the pleats, fold the edges of the front side of the fabric about over to the back. Then, sew straight stitches up each side to create side seams. Not only will this secure your pleats, but it'll also prevent the nose wire from falling out.[13]

    • Don't forget to use the pattern for reference.
  6. Fold the bottom over the second fabric strip. Lay the second fabric strip over the bottom of the mask. Make sure the strip is centered so that there will be equal amounts of strap on either side of the mask. Then, fold the lower edge of the backside of the mask over the fabric strip. Line up the rough edge of the fabric with the top edge of the strip. Then, sew straight stitches along the rough edge to secure the mask around the bottom strap.[14]

    • This is exactly like the first step for making the mask. of the backside of the mask up and sew along the rough edge using a straight stitch to make another tunnel. Starting on the right side, insert the free end of the elastic you attached at the top of the mask into the tunnel and use straight stitches to sew it in place. Then, repeat on the left side. This will create 2 ear loops on either side of the mask.[15]}}
  7. Sew a topstitch around the perimeter of the mask twice to secure it. Use your sewing machine or a hand sewing needle and thread to complete the topstitch. This will reduce the risk of your mask fraying or coming apart.[16]

    • You can skip the topstitch if you're in a hurry. However, your mask will hold up better in the wash if you add a topstitch.
  8. Wash your mask before wearing it. Your mask won't be able to protect you from germs if it's dirty. To sanitize it, wash it in detergent on a hot setting. Then, dry it in your dryer for best results.[17]

    Sew a Simple Medical Mask Step 13 Version 2.jpg
    • If necessary, you can air-dry your mask. However, heat will kill more germs, so using a dryer is your best bet.
    • If you don't have a washing machine, sanitize the mask by boiling it for 10 minutes. Then, lay it out on a sanitized surface to air dry.[18]

[Edit]Video

[Edit]Things You'll Need

  • Fabric
  • Floral wire or twisty tie
  • Elastic (optional)
  • Pattern
  • Pencil or fabric chalk
  • Sewing machine or hand sewing needle
  • Thread
  • Fabric scissors (or sharp scissors)
  • Fabric pins

[Edit]Tips

  • If you don't have a medical-grade mask, wear a simple medical mask if you're a healthcare professional, you're sick, or you're caring for someone who is sick.[19]

[Edit]Warnings

  • Homemade medical masks aren't as effective as medical-grade masks, which can block up to 95% of germs. Only use a homemade fabric mask if you don't have access to a medical-grade mask.[20]

[Edit]References

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