The COVID-19 pandemic is really scary. So you probably do everything you can to stay healthy. As a precaution, you may want to wear a medical mask to protect yourself from the virus. Luckily, with just basic sewing skills, you can easily make your own cloth masks at home. Even so, you need to remember that these masks are not as effective as medical/surgical masks. So, you should only wear this mask if you have no other choice.
Note: Don't forget to wash your hands frequently, keep your distance, and avoid crowds as much as possible
Mask Pattern
Click here to get a fabric mask pattern in PDF format.
Step
Part 1 of 5: Choosing the Right Fabric
Step 1. Choose a thick and tight fabric for both layers of the mask
You will need 2 layers of fabric to make a more effective mask. For best results, choose a thicker fabric for the outer layer, and a lighter cotton fabric for the inner layer.
- Based on recent research, the best material for homemade cloth masks is sterile cloth covering surgical equipment. This fabric can resist 99% of germs and particulates.
- Meanwhile, for the outer layer of the mask, you can use a non-elastic fabric such as denim, twill, canvas, duck fabric, or quilting fabric.
- For the inner lining, you can use a cotton fabric or a cotton blend, as long as it's non-elastic.
Tip:
These cloth masks will be washed and sterilized frequently. So, choose a fabric that won't shrivel or deform after washing.
Step 2. Use a stable 100% cotton t-shirt
You probably don't have fabric at home and don't want to go to the fabric store. Luckily, you can use an old T-shirt to make a mask. Simply boil the t-shirt in a pot of water for 10 minutes to sterilize and shrink in size. After that, hang to dry.
For best results, choose a T-shirt like Hanes Heavyweight 100% preshrunk cotton. Or, take advantage of whatever old t-shirts you have at home
Step 3. Make use of an old pillowcase if you don't have a t-shirt
Although not an ideal choice, a pillowcase fabric can still protect you from germs. Take advantage of pillowcases if this is the only option you have.
T-shirts are generally more protective than pillowcases. So, if you have one, make a t-shirt your first choice
Step 4. Match different colors and patterns so you can easily identify the face of the mask
Wearing a mask upside down can actually expose you to the germs you want to avoid. To make it easier for you to identify the front and back of the mask, mix different colors or motifs on at least one side.
For an easy and fast mask design that is CDC-approved and made:
Try using the pattern here: https://www.coxhealth.com/innovation/masks/. Meanwhile, this pattern is simpler, but doesn't allow you to add filters.
Part 2 of 5: Cutting the Fabric
Step 1. Make sure your hands and workbench are clean
Although this mask will be washed before use, it's a good idea to ensure that it is clean during manufacture. Disinfect the sewing machine and the table you will be using with a bleach solution or a cloth that has been moistened with the bleach solution. Also, wash your hands for at least 20 seconds before starting work. You may also need to wear one of the cloth masks so that splashes of your cough, sneeze, or exhalation don't fall onto the mask you're making.
This step is very important, especially if you are planning to donate a mask to someone else
Step 2. Print and cut out the fabric mask pattern
You can find a wide variety of cloth mask patterns online, and many of them are useful. To make a high-quality cloth mask, use a pattern with a tight nose so the mask can cover your face tightly. When printing the mask pattern, be sure to select the actual size. After that, check the scale of the pattern again with a ruler before cutting.
- Try using this pattern to make a larger cloth mask for men:
- Use this pattern to make cloth masks for women and teens:
- Use this pattern to make cloth masks for 7-12 year olds:
- Try using this pattern to make cloth masks for 3-6 year olds:
Step 3. Fold the fabric in the middle with the smooth side pointing inward
To sew the mask, you will need 2 copies of the pattern facing each other for the outer and inner layers. Line up the edges of the fabric with the smooth side in and the rough side out.
Step 4. Trace the pattern onto the back of the fabric sheet for the outer layer
Lay the folded cloth on a flat surface. After that, place the pattern on it. Use a pencil or chalk to trace the mask pattern onto the fabric.
Step 5. Cut the outer edge of the fabric, increasing the length by about 4 cm
You will need to increase the length at the edges of the fabric to allow the elastic to insert. Use scissors to cut out the pattern on the fabric. When cutting, add about 4 cm in length on the outer side of the fabric (in the area adjacent to the ear).
Step 6. Trace the pattern on the back side of the fabric layer in the mask
Place the smooth side of the fabric facing down and place the mask pattern on it. Use a pencil or chalk to trace the mask pattern onto the fabric.
Cut both sides of the fabric following the pattern as you will need 2 layers of fabric
Step 7. Cut the inner layer of the mask with sharp scissors (or special fabric scissors)
Cut the folded fabric following the pattern you traced. When you're done cutting, you'll have 2 strands of the mask pattern from 2 sides of the fabric.
If you don't have fabric scissors, just use the sharpest scissors you have
Part 3 of 5: Making the Main Part of the Mask
Step 1. Lay out both layers of fabric with the smooth side facing inward
Now, you're going to sew the 2 inner layers of fabric together so the mask can cover your face and follow the contours of your nose. Align the nose piece on the sheet of cloth that will be used as the inner layer of the mask. Make sure the outer sides of the mask are facing each other as you sew.
If you want, pin pins to hold the two strands together. However, you don't have to
Step 2. Sew the nose of the mask
Use a sewing machine, or sew the nose of the mask manually with a needle and thread. Follow the traced lines on the fabric and leave extra length at the edges.
Step 3. Align the outer layer of the mask by orienting the motif inward
Just like the inner layer, you are now going to sew the 2 outer layers of the mask together. Route the patterned fabrics on the outer layers of the mask facing each other. After that, align the nose seams and check that all the edges are flush with each other.
Although you don't have to, as with the inner layer of the mask, you can pin pins if you want
Step 4. Sew the outer layer of the mask following the groove of the nose
Use a sewing machine, or sew the nose of the mask manually with a needle and thread. Use the previously traced pattern lines as a guide. Leave extra length at the edges.
Step 5. Iron the outer seam of each fabric so that it is even
While you can skip this step if you wish, ironing the mask seams will flatten the mask and make it easier for you to continue sewing. Unlock the outer and inner layers of the mask. Place these two layers on an ironing board or heat-resistant surface with the outside facing up. Turn on the iron on low heat then press the outer edges of the seams on the outer and inner layers of the mask slowly.
If you don't iron, the area around your newly created mask seam will be bloated and uneven
Step 6. Align the outer seams of the two layers of the mask then pin the pins so they don't shift
Lay the outer layer of the mask on a flat surface, pointing the outer side down. After that, place the inner layer of the mask on top of it by pointing the outer side up. Make sure the nose stitches on both strands of this layer are aligned.
Step 7. Sew the top and bottom of the mask following the outline of the pattern that was traced
Use a sewing machine, or sew the top and bottom of the mask together to manually join the inner and outer layers with a needle and thread. Leave the side of the mask open.
There should be about 2cm of extra cloth on either side of the mask to insert the elastic
Part 4 of 5: Inserting the Nose Wire
Step 1. Turn the mask inside out and iron the seams until they are even
This is when you flip the mask over and point the outer side out. To do this, start by removing the mask from one of the unstitched sides. Use your fingers to fold the layers of fabric and open the outer side. Gently pull the entire mask through this opening until the fabric flips over. After that, iron the seams above and below the mask until they are even.
- Be careful. Do not tear the mask seams when turning the fabric.
- Once inverted, the mask may swell slightly. Try ironing the mask to redistribute it.
Step 2. Insert 14-15 cm of floral wire into the top of the mask
This wire will be inserted at the top of the mask so that it can follow the shape of the nose of the wearer. Use your fingers to thread the wire through the holes on both sides of the mask. Push the wire into the top seam of the mask just in the nose area. Hold the wire so it doesn't slide.
This wire will form a mask so that it can cover the nose and mouth tightly. In addition, the wire will make the mask fit better when worn
Step 3. Sew the top and bottom of the mask to strengthen the previous seam
The seam at the top also serves to hold the wire between the two layers of fabric. So, position the seam just below the wire. You can use a sewing machine or sew manually to strengthen the mask seams.
- Double check that the nose wire is between the first and second stitches.
- Be careful not to puncture the wire with the sewing needle. Sewing needles can dull and even break.
Part 5 of 5: Sewing the Side of the Mask and Inserting the Filter
Step 1. Make a 0.5 cm long crease on the side of the mask's outer layer
The remaining fabric on both sides of the outer layer of the mask will be made into elastic band holes. Fold the edge of the fabric and align it just inside the gap between the outer and inner layers of the mask (which is still open). After that, press these folds with an iron.
This hole will be used to insert the elastic of the mask
Step 2. Sew the edges of the mask's outer layer
Leave a gap between the two layers of the mask so you can still insert the filter. Therefore, do not sew the inner and outer layers of the mask until they are tightly closed. You can sew by machine or manually to join the outer edges of the mask. After that, there will be only a small amount of space left on either side of the mask to insert the elastic.
Variation:
You can use a hair band if you want. If you're using a hair band, just slide it into the edge of the mask when it's folded. After that, sew this edge following the hair tie.
Step 3. Fold the layer in the mask tufting then sew
Even if the elastic band on the outer layer of the mask is sufficient to cover the layer, you should still sew the edges of the inner layer of the mask to prevent fraying. Use your fingers to fold about 0.2 cm of the inner layer of the mask towards the side slits of the mask. After that, use a sewing machine or needle and thread to sew these edges manually. Remember, don't sew the inner and outer layers of the mask together as you won't be able to insert the filter otherwise.
- Repeat this step on the other side of the mask.
- Filter pockets will form on both sides of the mask when finished.
Step 4. Insert one end of the elastic through the hole on the side of the mask
Use an elastic band 70 cm long by 0, 5 or 1 cm wide. Open a hole on one side of the mask and use your fingers to push the end of the elastic in. Push the elastic until it comes out the other side then pull. After that, push the end of the elastic in the hole on the other side of the mask. Tie the ends of the elastic band together and be firm enough.
- Tying the elastic like this allows you to adjust the size of the mask as needed.
- This elastic band may shorten during washing. So it's a good idea to go over the length.
Step 5. Wash the mask with detergent and hot water before use
Even if you're careful, the mask isn't sterile once it's finished. So, wash the mask in a washing machine and at high temperature before using it. Dry the mask on high temperature or dry in the sun until it is completely dry.
If you don't have one or don't want to use a washing machine, simply boil the mask for 10 minutes to sterilize it
Step 6. Insert the air filter through the side of the mask for added protection
The filter will maximize the effectiveness of the mask. You can use a HEPA filter, vacuum cleaner filter, or nonwoven fabric as a mask filter. Place this filter inside the mask between the inner and outer layers before applying. When removing the mask, throw away the filter and then replace it with a new one before re-use.
