While some Calgarians have been donning non-medical face masks when they go out into public places for some time, Calgary city council voting to make them mandatory as of August. Masks will be required in all public spaces, except schools, daycares and gyms unless you can be separated by a screen, shield or barrier.
Alberta’s chief medical officer of health, Dr. Deena Hinshaw, addressed the use of face masks during the COVID-19 pandemic at her daily update back on May 14.
During the update, Dr. Hinshaw said that “wearing non-medical masks can help limit your exposure and protect those around you.” She touched on how they can be helpful in public spaces where it can sometimes be difficult to ensure proper social distancing between people or in case someone is asymptomatic.
It remains important to remember that additional health and safety measures such as social distancing and handwashing remain essential. More information on masks and how to wear them can be found on the Government of Alberta’s website.
While there are ways to make a face mask for yourself, several Calgary businesses have also stepped up to make and distribute them. Here’s a look at some of the Calgary companies currently making non-medical face masks if you’re looking to buy one
Alberta Apparel
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Local clothing company Alberta Apparel has made it their goal to sell one million non-medical face masks — at cost — to help protect the community. Alberta Apparel’s masks are made with ChitoSante, an odour-resisting and moisture-wicking material with breathable, fast-drying, anti-static and additional anti-bacterial properties. The washable masks run for $55 with one size measuring 7.5″ wide x 4.5″ deep.
Ashabi: A touch of heritage
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Ashabi is selling two-pack bamboo masks in both adult and kid’s sizes in a number of different colours and styles. Each mask has its logo, the Gangan or Talking Drum, which is a West African traditional drum. All of its products are made with sustainability in mind.
Black Sheep Mattress Company
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The Black Sheep Mattress Company masks are made from 100 per cent organic cotton muslin and are adjustable and washable. The $20 masks come in contoured large and medium sizes or a pleated version that is one-size. Black Sheep has also donated masks to organizations like The Alex, Birth Unlimited and Enivros.
Fari Hara Custom Menswear
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Fari Hara has created multiple colour ways of these breathable and washable masks made with Nanotex fabric. They have also written up a five-step instruction guide on their website to make sure customers are using their masks in the safest way possible. In addition to its three colours available, it has also made a Black Lives Matter mask with all proceeds from sales being donated to organizations uplifting and empowering the Black community.
Hippo Hug
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This local weighted blanket developer now offers cotton face masks in a variety of bright colours and patterns. The masks can be ordered in semi-bulk – buy five for $30 or 10 for $57.
JukieJoy
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Calgary local Julie Fournier is putting her sewing and knitting experience to work creating unique masks with beautiful patterns, which are available online through her Etsy store, JukieJoy. Fournier’s masks are adjustable in size and are $20. She also offers free delivery.
Kate Hewko
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Calgary fashion entrepreneur Kate Hewko has also waded into non-medical face mask design. The Mr Hewko masks are available in black twill while the Mrs Hewko masks come in black twill, leopard and lace, pink zebra flannel, zebra, red newsprint, and green leopard and lace patterns. These $15 masks also include an opening to insert a filter if desired.
Medium Rare Chef Apparel
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This kitchen apparel distributor is using its resources to make and distribute face masks locally. The Medium Rare masks have a pocket for a filter to be inserted and come with a template that will show you how to make a filter. Plus, each time someone purchases a mask, another goes to a frontline worker.
Meow Foundation
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The Meow Foundation, a no-kill cat rescue charity in Calgary, started making non-medical masks in April and you better believe they have cat patterns. Place an order for curbside pickup via email (thrift@meowfoundation.com), then swing by the Meow Charity Thrift Shop to pick it up. The masks are $10 each.
Modern Masks
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Not only has Modern Masks created reusable, fitted masks to keep Calgarians safe, it also started The Crochet Initiative. Directed at healthcare and frontline workers, The Crochet Initiative creates handmade, high-quality, crocheted ear straps for masks to reduce the strain of wearing them for long hours.
Piece on Peace
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Already offering curbside pickup for its fashion products made by local artists and designers, Piece on Peace also offers multiple styles of masks in all sizes – including kids. Each run of masks is made with a new and unique design and lined with anti-microbial material. Plus, there are velcro and behind-the-ear options.
Plainsbreaker Apparel
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Known for its brightly coloured men’s socks, Plainsbreaker has taken its simple and fun style and applied it to face masks. The masks come in six different colours and have a sleek looking YYC logo to represent the city (other cities and provinces are available as well). The nylon and cotton masks are only $5 each and $1 of every sale is donated to Brown Bagging 4 Calgary’s Kids.
Riyoko
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This clothing and design company temporarily closed its cSpace studio due to the pandemic, but it’s staying busy by making cotton knit/woven masks. The $17 masks come with a filter and are available in four sizes: large, medium and two child sizes for various ages.
Seams Friendly YYC
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The Albertan duo makes their masks and apparel inspired by the “lifestyle, beauty and diversity of our province”. Its masks come in 14 different colours and come in four different sizes – men’s, women’s, kid’s and youth. All masks are dual layered and machine washable.