Silk bandana or handkerchief?

[Sid Post]

No, I'm not looking to make Corobavirus face masks.

Where should I look for a 'good' quality silk bandana? I'm not looking for fancy or colorful patterns. I'm wanting a classic paisley or solid color for use with a motorcycle helmet. I want something substantial, not overly thin.

Where should I look? What should I avoid? What sort of pricing should I expect? Specific recommendations are appreciated too! I can be reached at username atgmaildotcom .

TIA,
Sid

 

[plumberroy]

I am not a big fan of silk, but I also don't like size and weight of most cotton bandanas sold . I buy fabric of the weight I like and roll hem on my serger. Most store bought bandanas are 20" × 20" or 21"x21" I make them 24 x 24. I try for fabric 50% heavier than store bought

 

[eveled]

My Dad always carried a handkerchief. His favorite for a while was a checkerboard lol. Literally a portable checkerboard for backpacking. He liked it because (like plumberroy said) it was bigger than a standard bandana.

I make bandannas out of favorite shirts when they wear out. Usually get one or two good ones out of the back of a shirt.

The sleeves make good sweat bands. Maybe find a silk shirt?

Not sure I’ve ever even touched real silk. But I’d look in the ladies section of TJ Max or Marshall’s for scarves. You might get lucky.

I knew a guy who bought two identical leather purses for cheap money and used them as saddle bags on his shovel head Harley.

These work well too. Sorry Not silk but soft.

https://www.bladehq.com/cat--Scarves-Wraps--1290

 

[Sid Post]

Shemagh are on the right track but, the ones I have are too rough for skin pressure with a good fitting helmet.

I have looked at neck gaiters too but, wool, polartec, etc are too heavy and hot. Hmm maybe Alpaca or Merino wool ...

 

[Scott Free]

According to this article, silk is one of the worst materials for making a coronavirus mask.

https://smartairfilters.com/en/blog/best-materials-make-diy-face-mask-virus/

 

[Plainsman]

Depending upon your use, silk is a great material as it breathes and allows moisture to wick away! It is a great natural, underlayer. Silk and wool go together well, helping keep a person dry and warm!

 

[Sid Post]

Yes, wool socks work well for me in Summer heat and heavy leather boots.

 

[Shann]

I got a wild rag from Bladeforums member Dave at Horsewright Clothing. Good stuff.

 

[Sid Post]

Their leather work has captured my attention before. I totally missed the Wild Rag ...

While a bit big for a motorcycle helmet, I see of these headed my way soon! Thanks for bringing it to my attention.

 

[Horsewright]

The wife hand makes all of ours:

Kinda in limbo right now. We only have two colors left. I don't see a lot of our suppliers surviving the shutdowns. They are just small family shops. The wife shopping at our main supplier in the LA Garment District:

 

[Horsewright]

I got a wild rag from Bladeforums member Dave at Horsewright Clothing. Good stuff.

Thanks for the shout out sir!