Here I will share a easy method for removal of the rust and how to replace the wire.
For the first few batches of the masks I made the mistake of using pipe cleaners, as I think many did. Turns out these rust. So here is how to remove them and replace them.
-First I cut a little slit in the back of the mask and pull the old wire out. This is usually pretty easy to do, but sometimes you struggle with fishing it out.
-Then I use a combination of lemon juice and salt, I spot treated with a Q-tip, bonus if you can put it in the sun. You may need to do this step a few times till you see the rust disappear, then give the whole mask a hand wash and dry. I also recommend pressing with an iron to flatten everything out (see added care instructions in post here.)
-Then I replace the wire with one that I cut from a roll of what’s called “artistic wire”. It’s 20 gauge, basically nylon coated wire. I also bend the ends before inserting it so it isn't sharp and can't poke through. (see below bonus directions on how to make the wires or how to purchase from me).
-If you want to close up the hole grab a needle and thread and just make a few stitches, it doesn't need to look pretty, it's the back so no one will see it, but do cut those threads close, as they will bug you if they tickle your face.
Added instructions of how to bend the ends of the wires:
I bought “artistic wire” from a place called Rio Grande online, but you can also do a general search, some of the craft stores will sell it too. You want 20 gauge. And you will need wire cutters and two pairs of flat nose pliers.
-Straighten wire between fingertips.
-Cut a 5" wire.
-Bend ends in using flat pliers.
-Take each end of wire in each pair of pliers and give a tug and a little twist back and fourth to straighten it all out and align the ends.
-Now you have a straight wire without sharp ends to reinsert into the nose wire slot.
I also sell some replacement wires if you would rather not do this last step of making them on your own. Sold in packs of 5 for $6 (includes mailing) at shop.foxanddoll.com. Free for any previous of masks from my site.
