Oh duh, I never thought to cut a slit! I'm a seamstress, so i can overlock if needed. I also never thought of a french braid, and here i french braided my hair every day for 4 years when i was in the army.

I'm going to try the french braid and if i that doesn't work out, i'll put a hole in the balaclava (and the wool buff - I wear both. It is freeeeezing in indiana). Thanks!!