"HACKNEY HOMEMADE HEALTH MASKS are DIY and started as an idea of mine when I realised we have a sewing machine at home we could use to make something everybody needs now - cute fashionable and ecologically responsible face masks!", says Nina, founder of MASKINI. Nina is also a talented DJ who played with us on the 8th of March for the International Womxn's Day, last party we had before our wourld completely changed. Below you can read all about this great project that is also helping womxn in need + find out how to get your MASKINI.
WXMB 2: Tell us a little bit more about the product itself?
NINA: My talented partner Areti is making these masks with so much patience, she sews all three layers (two layers of breathable cotton blend (74.6 % protection) + fusible fleece on the inside which serves as a filter to not let any virus, bacteria or bad vibe get through to your face. After she sewed all the layers and straps, she turns the mask around and we get this product. After that she also sews a fabric with wire inside so it can be adjusted to your nose and not let air through that side.The 4 straps, unlike the usual ear stretch are way more comfortable and can be adjusted to any hair style or accessories. It takes us a little bit longer to make them but at least people will enjoy wearing them more.
WXMB 2: By wearing MASKINI you are not just helping yourself and the others by protecting them, but you are also giving to charity, right?
NINA: Yes. We decided at the very beginning of the project that we are donating 10% of our profit monthly to Women's Aid charity organisation who deals with domestic violence. We have noticed an increase in domestic violence in statistics and news and want to help women feel safe and offer support at these uncertain times. We are both currently unemployed so we figured this was a good way of spending our time, and obviously - we both need cute masks, too :) Our flatmates were really helpful during our shooting and helped us out by modelling. Everything is sort of organic - made by just the people living together, not to mention people purchasing off us will allow the NHS access to the medical grade masks which they need more than us.
WXMB 2: How can people buy or order MASKINI?
NINA: Just go to our MASKINI Instagram and reach out. As masks are reusable and washable, it also is a ecological way of people staying protected without using disposable plastic. We are delivering for free locally - in Hackney and rest of the masks we are able to post anywhere in and out of UK. Stay safe (and fashionable) people! <3 one love
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