It is just crappy quality, there are many different possible formulations for the elastic, some more long lasting than others. Race to the bottom and all that.
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It probably has something to do with latex allergies from using real rubber. I checked my vintage elastics and they appear to have a higher content of natural rubber while the newer ones have more synthetic rubber. Synthetic rubber doesn’t seem to do as well with being stretched.
Interesting observation and question!
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I’ve dug into my larger fabric scraps to start making face masks. I’m still waiting on my elastic from Hobby Lobby, but, they’re otherwise done. I like this pattern for myself and my family (it comes in 4 sizes, has a filter pocket, plus, I can use some pretty small pieces for this kind), but our hospitals want a different style. Probably going to make a few more of these for friends, too, then start on the hospital ones.
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Those masks look great. The cheery fabrics make this situation a whole lot less depressing.
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Now that I’m teaching at home for the long haul, I have been digging into the scraps. My daughter is now scrunchie wealthy. 
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I’ve had this craftalong on “tracking” for awhile as a reminder to get back to it. Now I have lots to read through! Before I scroll back up I’m going to drop my latest scrappy project here - using fabric and embroidery floss bits. 
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Finally found a use for those large scraps…actual yardage in some cases…that have been sitting around forever. Rather “old-maidish” and old-fashioned prints. I’ve just never found a good use for them…but I still have them!
Surgical masks! there are so many patterns out there, and advice, and material suggestions. But in many cases it just comes down to basic protection for health workers and “something is better than nothing”. We’ve had several calls from local health centers for masks. This is the link I am working from right now. I’m going to run out of elastic, so I’ll probably switch to ties.
Here’s the first batch. I’m getting faster. I have added a floral wire nose piece and changed the spacing of the pleats a bit.
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There are several people here who are making these as well as the more fitted masks. I followed a tutorial by @tendstowardschaos that look like the ones you are making as well…those prints will be welcomed…the are still very lovely!
I am using a boatload of red, white and blue prints to try to get some more for men…not sure how many would want to wear cute little owls… 
I think it is a great use of fabric…
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There’s a new Lettuce Craft Challenge that might be right up you Fabric Scrappers alley…
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Awesome little wings!
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Now they’ll bicker over who has which set! 
Great job, though.
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Truth! Ha!
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I finally finished my scrap quilt. The fabric at the back wasn’t wide enough, so I inserted a scrappy strip
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I wanted to get it finished so I had some headspace to plan what I’m making for you. 
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It turned out really nice! The back piece almost looks like a bunch of nautical flags…
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It’s wonderful. The back strip is entrancing too, those ziggetty zaggety triangles, wow!
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Really like how the back came out! 
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Love the strip you added to the back! A real double sided quilt.
Gorgeous work.
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