Everyone is still wearing their masks, correct? Just because Americans are getting fidgety and bored of the corona virus, doesn’t mean the virus is gone. So as you throw caution to the wind and venture out on summer escapes to public places, wear a damn mask.
That being said, not all masks are created equal. Many masks are less effective when they struggle to contain copious facial hair. I would never suggest that anyone shave for their mask. Instead, make the mask work for the beard.
I’ve patterned a beard mask for my own bearded man, which he’s so generously modeling in these photos. I’ve also illustrated the shape of the pattern, which can be scaled and/or lengthened to accommodate your beard or very large face. It is comprised of two regular mask side panels with a fitted bridge, but longer in the chin to accommodate a beard’s length. Then another panel shaped a bit like a shield goes under the beard, attached to the two sides, and keeps fabric close to the neck and jaw without squashing the hairs.
