MATERIALS

We recommend using Phifertex mesh for the masks.  It is an open weave vinyl-coated polyester and it is the same material used by the fly mask manufacturers.  Please see the “Outdoor Fabrics” listings on our Material and Notion Source Information page for sources.  We did not test this pattern with any other types of mesh, but if you try another type it must be durable and must provide good vision for the horse.  The mesh for the ears should be lighter weight and softer.  Some choices are:

Coolmax Mesh-  Lightweight, strong, and cool.
No-See-Um Netting-  Very fine and lightweight, least expensive
Power Mesh-  Nylon/spandex so it stretches, a bit heavier, expensive

Use synthetic sheepskin or polyester fleece (such as Polartec™) for the edge binding.

FITTING

The chart below shows the MASK circumference around the horse’s throatlatch when fastened with the hook-and-loop tape closure pieces matching exactly.  The masks of course can be adjusted to be smaller or larger.

YARDAGES

 ALSO NEEDED:  Thread; 1/8 YD fleece (45/60” wide); SIZES XS-SM-  6” of 1 1/2” wide hook-and-loop tape and 1/4 YD mesh ear fabric if making ears, SIZES MD-XL-  7” of 2” wide hook-and-loop tape and 1/3 YD mesh ear fabric if making ears.  For REGULAR MASK WITHOUT EARS ONLY-  3” long piece of 1” wide webbing.