July 28, 2020 – If it's a “new normal“ to wear a face mask almost everywhere you go, let it be fun, catchy, and personalized. Kumrije Musljiu, known as Kumi, recently started to make face masks by order in her atelier in the heart of old-town Porec.

Kumi used to sew dolls, toys, and souvenirs, but she had to adjust to the new situation with the coronavirus and start sewing masks too. Her business, named „By Kumi“, located right by the Euphrasian Basilica in the center of old-town Porec, is a place where you can come and order your mask.

“We decided to start making masks to get something positive out of this situation. That is, when we need to follow the rules, these masks should be personalized and represent each person in some way,” says Kumrije, known as Kumi.

Source: Private archive

More and more orders each day

All the masks are handmade and unique. It's not a surprise that these two-layered masks of different materials, washable in a machine, became so popular.

Their masks are recognizable by the variety of colors and motifs. As Kumi explains, customers mostly want their logo on a mask, something they like, or something that defines them in some way.

Therefore, you can pick whatever color you desire and put motifs or even a coat of arms on a mask, if you want.

Source: Private archive

Kumi works with one employee and her daughter, who help her make all the masks ordered.

“We are a very good team and each of us has a job that we do professionally,” says Kumi.

Source: Private archive

First, they gave masks to their neighbors, close friends, city associations (Association of the Disabled and Nursing Home), and the mayor of Porec.

After that, interest began to grow, and with it, their business. They have more and more orders each day because customers are very satisfied and they continue to recommend them.

Loris Peršurić, the mayor of Poreč / Source: Private archive

Recognizable quality

Even though this year’s season is different, and the attendance is not the same as usual, those who come to “By Kumi” atelier are always delighted with their products.

Apart from masks, Kumi says they “have a lot of products filled with lavender, so tourists fall in love with that scent”.

Source: Private archive

They also have baby products that are filled with anti-allergic cotton wool and are washable, which are great for children and parents. They have something for every age, which makes customers even more satisfied.

Due to the custom-made service and the quality, the price of one mask is 50 kuna, but Kumi says they are here for anyone who needs a mask and can’t afford it.

Source: Private archive