As an asthmatic, Talisman Menswear owner, Paul Jerome is no stranger to wearing face masks, but has found they have become increasingly hard to find amidst the current pandemic. So, he decided to make his own reusable and machine washable mask.
Shortly after, he saw someone on Facebook trying to source masks and he offered to hand make some. Since then, his custom masks have taken off thanks to the power of social media and he has now sold around 140 masks to the general public.
The masks Paul makes are not medical grade and are not COVID-19 proof but there is a still a huge demand for them with the current shortage of medical filtering masks such as the N95 mask. People feel a lot safer going out with some form of mask on as it stops them touching their face and something is better than nothing.
“We have to continue sanitisation and social distancing as much as possible. Wearing a mask is just an extra precaution we can take, which has to be better than not wearing one at all.” said Paul.
The masks are made with three layers for added protection. Paul uses a cotton fabric for the outer layer which customers can supply if they want certain patterns or colours. A polyester fusing is then used as the middle layer and then another cotton layer on the inside of the mask.
By making these masks, Paul is not only servicing a huge demand in the community, but it also gives him something to do and keep his mind off the stress of having to close his shop. Paul added “I’d like to thank everyone who has purchased a mask as it allows me to pay my casual staff member to continue working every Saturday morning.”
With a 24-hour turnaround, customers can expect great service and a contactless pick-up or delivery. Paul can also make children’s masks with fun designs such as cartoons.
If you wish to support a great local business and purchase a mask, head to Talisman Menswear Facebook page and send Paul a message. They are $15 per mask and delivery can be arranged for a small fee. Paul can also post them for an additional fee and has already sent masks interstate to New South Wales, Queensland, Western Australia, Australian Capital Territory and Tasmania.
