Staying Safe Neednt Cost The Earth
If you are finding it hard to get hold of KN95 masks, or finding them too expensive, you could perhaps consider the next best thing: Silk.
A number of studies have shown that silk is effective at repelling droplets, with one study showing the best results were the KN95 masks, the next best were silk masks.
These can be made at home, and do have a number of advantages. They can be washed numerous times and dry quickly. They are soft and don't tend to aggravate the skin and generally provide a good seal around the nose. They are a natural product and environmentally preferable to polyester disposable masks. They can be made cheaply.
I have attached a pattern based on a KN95 mask, as it appears when folded. you will need to cut 8 pieces, double layers front and back and then join the middle seam for each side, insert a cotton inner layer, a metal strip across the nose area (you can get these from a disposable mask), close the seam around the outer edge and attach the elastic.
An old silk scarf or shirt is ideal to make these. I have also spoken to the recycle shop at the Otaihanga transfer station and they will collect any silk items that come in so people can use them for mask making.
Poll: 🤖 What skills do you think give a CV the ultimate edge in a robot-filled workplace?
The Reserve Bank has shared some pretty blunt advice: there’s no such thing as a “safe” job anymore 🛟😑
Robots are stepping into repetitive roles in factories, plants and warehouses. AI is taking care of the admin tasks that once filled many mid-level office jobs.
We want to know: As the world evolves, what skills do you think give a CV the ultimate edge in a robot-filled workplace?
Want to read more? The Press has you covered!
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52.4% Human-centred experience and communication
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15% Critical thinking
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29.7% Resilience and adaptability
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2.8% Other - I will share below!
Share your favourite main crop potato recipe and win a copy of our mag!
Love potatoes? We will give away free copies of the May 2026 issue to readers whose potato recipes are used in our magazine. To be in the running, make sure you email your family's favourite way to enjoy potatoes: mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, by March 1, 2026.
WAIKANAE NIGHT MARKET THIS FRIDAY
When:- Friday 27 February, 4:00pm – 7:00pm
Where: Waikanae Arts and Crafts Society Hall
27a Elizabeth St, Waikanae
Joyously made, locally hand crafted and wonderful preloved goodies:-
* Good quality Preloved Clothing
* New Clothing by a local designer
* Jewellery
* Hand made Bags
* Hand made Children's Dress-ups and Dolls Clothes
* Hand made Crochet Toys
* Hand made Cushions
* Upcycled and repurposed items including Furniture upcycled in a Shabby Chic style
* The Chimney Pot - Antiques & Collectables
* Collage Art
Bring the kids along!! They have not been forgotten!!
Don't miss it - Everyone Welcome!!
Support Local!!
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