Learn How to Easily Sew a Surgical Face Mask With Ties, Flexible Nose Piece, and Filter Pocket With This Step-By-Step Tutorial With Video
Currently, the supply of surgical masks is at a critical all-time low throughout the entire nation. For those of us who sew, we can band together and make a huge difference in this time of need!
This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, Sweet Red Poppy receives a small commission at no extra cost to you.
In times of emergency when all compliant supplies have been exhausted, the CDC allows fabric masks to be used. You can read more from the CDC on this subject here.
In this tutorial, we will be sewing a standard face mask with bias tape ties, a filter pocket, and a flexible nose piece. You can get my Surgical Face Mask with Elastic Ears tutorial here.
*You can follow me on Instagram to get daily updates as this shortage changes day to day.
Homemade face masks can be donated to be used in hospitals, doctors' offices, and retirement homes. Police officers, EMT's, firefighters can also use facemasks during this time. This relieves the strain of a mask shortage and allows N95 masks to be used for COVID-19 and critical situations requiring PPE.
In extreme cases, nurses, doctors, and healthcare workers are wearing a fabric face mask over an N95 mask to give it even more longevity since the fabric face mask can easily be removed and washed once soiled.
While wearing a homemade face mask will not prevent someone from catching Covid-19, it can decrease the spread of large particles when someone who is infected sneezes or coughs.
Health.Harvard.Edu states "If you have respiratory symptoms like coughing or sneezing, experts recommend wearing a mask to protect others. This may help contain droplets containing any type of virus, including the flu, and protect anyone within three to six feet of the infected person."
All face masks should be washed and sterilized before use and cleaned again after becoming damp or moist. Color-safe bleach like Clorox 2 or Purex 2 can be used to sanitize with hot water.
Get my EASY Pleated Elastic Face Mask Tutorial HERE!
Get my FREE Scrub Cap Sewing Pattern HERE!
Now that we've covered all of the info on face masks it's time to get sewing!!!
Begin by cutting your fabric using the chart below for the correct measurements.
SUPPLY LIST FOR YOUR SURGICAL MASK WITH FLEXIBLE NOSE:
DOWNLOAD SURGICAL MASK PATTERN HERE
- 100% Quilting Cotton
- Sewing Machine
- Rotary Cutter
- Self- Healing Cutting Mat
- Acrylic Ruler
- Sewing Pins
- Floral Wire on Amazon
- Wire Cutters
- 1/2" Double Fold Bias Tape
- New to Sewing? Check out my Beginner Seamstress Supply List on Amazon here!
Click HERE to get our Back to School Guide for Sewing Face Masks for Kids
Cutting Chart for your Surgical Mask with Flexible Nose
Quilting (Tightly Woven) Cotton 3 Layers: Adult: 9" x 7" Child: 7" x 5"
Cut 2 pieces of Double Fold 1/2" Bias Tape 40"
Floral Wire 6"
Get Your FREE PRINTABLE Tutorial Here!
Learn how to make Bias Tape in the video below.
Step 1. Pin Fabric
Place two pieces of fabric right sides together. Save the third piece for the end of step 2.
Place a pin in each corner of the rectangle and horizontally mark the center of the rectangle.
Step 2. Sew Filter Pocket
Sew a straight horizontal line leaving a 2-3" opening in the middle.
Grab both top corners of the top fabric only and pull them downwards to meet the bottom. Flip mask over and this time grab the bottom two corners of the top fabric and lift them up to meet the top.
Press seams with an iron. A filter can easily be slid into this pocket at the end of the tutorial.
Place the last rectangle on top of the lining with right sides facing each other. Sew the short sides of the face mask making sure to backstitch at the beginning and end of each seam using a 3/8ths inch seam allowance.
Step 3. Turn Fabric
Turn the mask right side out and use an iron to press it flat. Take care to roll the seams outwards.
Step 4. Create Pin Tuck Markings
Create three pintuck markings by folding the mask in half and pressing it with an iron and then folding the outside edges to the center and pressing again.
Step 5. Sew Bias Tape.
Open the ends of the bias tape and fold them backwards so the right sides are touching each other. Sew a straight line along the short end of the bias tape making sure to backstitch. Turn the corner right side out to create a clean finish.
Find the center of the bias tape and position it at the center of the mask. Open the bias tape to align the raw edge of the bias tape with the raw edges of the mask. Pin in place along the length of the mask. Sew the bias tape in place along the crease closest to the raw edge, repeating this on the opposite side.
The filter slot should be facing away from you, this will be located on the backside of the mask.
*OPTIONAL Cut a 5-6 inch piece of floral wire to create a flexible nose piece. Bend the ends of the wire inwards to prevent them from poking through the fabric. Slid the wire into the bias tape along the top middle of the mask. Pin on either side of the floral tape and push it upwards to avoid sewing over it.
Fold the bias tape upwards and encase the raw edge, pin in place and sew along the entire length of the bias tape 1/4th of an inch from the edge.
You can use your fingers on either side to guide the bias tape as you sew it.
Step 6. Create Pin Tucks for your Surgical Mask with Flexible Nose
Create 1/2” folds facing downwards. Pin the folds in place making sure all tucks are facing the same direction.
Step 7. Topstitch your Surgical Mask with Flexible Nose
Sew over the pintucks along the right and left edge of the entire mask using a 3/8ths inch seam allowance.
Please contact your local hospital for their specific needs before donating!
Don’t forget to join my face mask Facebook group where you can show us what you’re making, ask questions, and learn from others! Follow me on Instagram for daily crafting inspiration and a look behind the scenes.
Thank you so much for this easy-to-use tutorial. Time to get busy.
Thank you for the tutorials! I would like to get started on masks but do not have a washing machine at home and trying to avoid the laundromat. Can you please tell me about the average of shrinkage and I was going to adjust the pattern accordingly. What do you think?
Also, is this mask just as effective as the fitted tutorial with a pocket?
That would be very difficult to predict, with each fabric being a bit different. I am doing the same thing, i accident cut my pieces an inch bigger and when I ironed the fabric first it shrunk a good full inch. Maybe what you can do is dampen the fabric and iron it dry before cutting your pieces out. The heat will shrink your fabric some.
You could wash cloth in your sink using hot water (let fabric sit in hot water awhile), wring out by hand, hang to dry, then iron. That's what I'll do since I don't have hot water to my machine and don't have a dryer (live in a sunny location). It doesn't take much fabric to make several masks. Good luck.
If you don’t have a washing machine, that’s not a problem. You can do this prior to cutting pieces or after. Simply place them under tap water getting them wet, squeeze excess any water and then iron on the hottest setting until dry. This is how I wash all of my masks. .They don’t have to go through an entire wash and dry cycle.
Thank you for the bias tape pattern . Just a few questions ...... can I use aluminum jewelry wire in place of floral wire ? How long would you cut the bias tape to make a child’s mask ? Thank tou
I am using jewelry wire. It works well. I make a small curl at each end to keep the wire from poking through the fabric. I sew a line of stitches to block the wire in place.
Did a really good job on this I am wanting to learn more how to make facemask it is so cute you did a really good job
What size bias tape did you use?
I’m curious too
I was also looking for that information.
1/2 Inch bias tape! 🙂
Step 2 says sew short sides wouldn't right and left be the longer sides? Ty
The longest side should be going across. Some of the photos didn't upload originally so I've udated the post with them. Maybe this will clarify!
think the bias tape length is too long. I measured a tie mask that I had from years ago and it is 35" long for each side.
Has anyone made the 54" and think it is necessary? we can make more masks if it takes less materials!
I've edited the measurement to make it smaller! I had intended for it to be tied in a bow but we can definitely save supplies but just double knotting it.
So this is 2, 40" pieces of bias tape, correct? Not one 40" piece cut into two pieces (20" each). Sorry just trying to be clear what I need to have to make 1 mask. So I will need 80" of bias tape to make one mask? Thank you so much!
I, too, have this question. One 40" strip would give me 2 20" pieces, but that doesn't seem long enough. But 1 40" piece for one side seems excessively long. Just want to make sure I'm not wasting bias tape. Thanks!
Can you use polished cotton?
You should launder all fabrics first, to remove any coatings or additives like sizing, which is present in new fabric.. The polished cotton may not retain its appearance, but should certainly be usable.
Janna, that's that I was thinking as well. I measured out 36" and that was MORE than sufficient. I'm thinking 54" is a typo
Is it 1/2” bias tape? Or what?
Thank you for your tutorial, quick question, what gauge is your floral wire? 22, 24 or 26?
Hi, the photo isn’t clear with the print out instructions. Do you mind reloading it, please? Also thank you so much for making this a free design!! It’s very kind of you.
No need to get sassy, Deidre. Folks are busy these days!
I've been speaking with my SIL who makes jewelry, and she says 24 gauge would be too flimsy. Stick with 20 gauge copper.
just use a paper clip unfolded...has the strength needed. Also, it is just as easy and more finished looking if the top and bottom are sewn together making a tube and then turned out . Then the raw short ends pleated and bias tape sewn over the pleats. This way less bias tape is used and the mask has a more finished look.
Width of bias tape please?
I'm using 1/2 Inch Bias Tape.
how can I download a printable copy of the pattern?
I, too, would like to know how to download printable instructions
If you click on the Print icon, you can scroll through & find the single instruction page - depending on your printer settings it should be between pages 48 & 51.
Can you please clarify how you make the pocket? I'm not following.... thanks!
So sorry! It looks like some of my photos did not upload. I've updated the wording and photos to clarify the process. 🙂
thanks so much for the update - it really helped!
I have read elsewhere that the ties are 18" long and I think 3/8" wide? The wire is 22 gauge. There are quite a few on youtube that go thru step by step.
I’ve seen that too, however I think with this measurement, they are enclosing the short ends of the mask with the bias tape.
I'm also not understanding how to make the pocket - the photos seem to be blurred for me and I'm not understanding the directions. The video tutorial you made didn't have the filter pocket. This is wonderful though!
So sorry! It looks like some of my photos did not upload. I've updated the wording and photos to clarify the process. 🙂
What type of filter is recommended?
Jennifer, I think she is using a lightweight or medium weight interfacing from a fabric store or Walmart.
I read somewhere that paper towels or coffee filters could be used and are disposable.
I am seeing that using the filter material from an air intake filter (furnace filter) of MERV 13 is being used
I'd be concerned with furnace or vacuum filters because they could have fiberglass in them
I get how to make the filter pocket!!! Amazing what more sleep and a fresh set of eyes can do.
Thanks for uploading this
Can I use pipe cleaner instead of floral wire?
I really appreciate how detailed this tutorial is! I’ve only sewn a handful of super basic things, but would love to help out and make a few of these. Going to see what I’ve got in my scrap basket to try one tomorrow. Thank you!!
I have sewed for years, off and on. Not a very prof sewer....but was determined to make this mask. IT HAS THE EASIEST DIRECTIONS I HAVE EVERY READ!!!! Thank you so much, made it perfect my first mask. Thank you again.....wish you could write me some crochet instructions this clear!
What are you using for replaceable filters? TIA.
I have looked at a lot of patterns for masks. They all mention filters. What is used for filters? Where can I buy them.
HI Holly!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FSeDlVxQx1k
Here is a YouTube that talks about using HEPA filters rated for viruses and removing the filter material to cut out for masks. Notice 1:49 and then at about 10:13 she starts the process of removing the filter material from its original packaging.
HTH!
When clicking on your link, it says “ this video is private.”
I love this tutorial. Just one question. Why not move the opening (for inserting the filter ) up to just under where the wire is located or at the bottom? It seems that this would make the mask more protective when filters are not available. It seams like the hole is right at the nose area, making the mask only have one layer.
Would 100% felted wool work for a filter layer in masks? Wool has breathability and naturally antimicrobial
That's a good idea!
True, but be clear that anti-microbial is not antiviral. SARS CoV-2 is a virus and not a microbe
As much as I love my wool and knitted garments I would not recommend it. Wool fibers have a hollow core and wick moisture away from the body trapping it in that core. I have seen wool, flannel, and even quilt batting mentioned to use, but others have said all would retain moisture from breathing and therefore be a breeding ground for germs. I tend to agree with that.
Instead of floral tape, you can also use paperclips and unfold them to use as the nose piece.
You can also use Christmas Tree ornament hangars or left over twist ties from trash bags!
How long should the bias tape be for the children size masks?
What type of fabric is suggested
100% cotton, washed and dried so it doesn't shrink once it's made. A closely woven cotton is best. To check if it's closely woven, hold it up to the light, you should not be able to see through it.
I love your pattern! Is there a way to make the pleated mask above but with elastic ties instead of bias tape?
Your graphic on how to sew a facemask is blurry can you post a clear one? Thank you
Please advise when tutorial for filter/pocket is revised...need to know that
I think I found a better alternative to the wire shown here. It's folder fasteners found at Staples office supplies. I wish I could upload a photo. These are ridged enough and flexible. Here's a link to the product. They may need to be removed so the mask can be washed, not sure if they are rust-proof.
A coat of finger nail polish every other load or two should keep it rust proof.
I think I found a better alternative to the wire shown here. It's folder fasteners found at Staples office supplies. I wish I could upload a photo. These are ridged enough and flexible. Here's a link to the product. They may need to be removed so the mask can be washed, not sure if they are rust-proof.
https://www.staples.com/Staples-Self-Adhesive-Fastener-2-3-4-Width-2-Capacity-100-PK/product_1798845
Another suggestion for the nose piece is to use a 12 inch pipe cleaner. Once it is folded in half and twisted together, Measures about 5 inches in length. As far as I know, pipe cleaners are washable. Anybody have any experience with pipe cleaner durability?
I am using twist ties for the nose piece. Just the right length, and washable.
What do use for filter
Can these be washed with wire in them?
Hi! Thanks for making the tutorial. Is there a print version of the bias tape mask. I can not find it and am not one to watch videos. I'd also like to share with a large group I have sewing.
Kimberly, how thoughtful of you to put this together for all of us. Great way to help while social distancing. Thank you. And what kind of material do you find works the best for the person to breathe?
You are
Many people have asked and there has been no answer: What do you use for the filter material? This is an important part of the whole mask concept. Please reply!
Hepa filters used for vacuum cleaners are the filter.
I decided a white pipe cleaner would be a good substitute for the wire. Softer too!
Several people have asked: Hospitals are wanting these to cover N95 filters they already have- we are just making the covers so the N95 filters last longer. For this project, we are not providing filters. If you are making for yourself and family, you can use non woven material like interfacing, coffee filters, washed and dried dryer sheets--it's another layer of protection but you are still going to have to breathe through it. (you gotta breathe, right?) In my area (Cincinnati), the hospitals don't want the wire inserted but they want the ability to put a wire in themselves, so we're doing that. Pipe cleaners, twist ties, floral wire all seem to meet the need. Material should be tightly woven all-cotton, like all-cotton sheets or quilting material. You do not have to purchase bias tape or make actual TRUE BIAS tape- you can cut strips of cloth and use them for the ties and binding. This video and method (pattern) seems the easiest to understand- I have made three or four styles and this is my favorite so far. I had difficulty finding how long to make the ties and this video was the first to say- but I'm glad now it's updated--I thought 54" sounded too long!
Two question for clarity: 1)How do you sew the area of the mask where the 'hospital' will insert their own wire. What are you doing to give them this ability? 2) Since these would be going over the N95's, are you still making them for 'filter' insert purpose (3-layers), or just (two-layers) and then making the pleats? I'm not an experienced seamstress, but always willing to learn. Any advice please that would make this clear for me. Thank you so much!
These are best instructions we have found! but over time we have simplified them a tad. We are only doing the 2 layer mask, no filter pocket, our nurses are using them as covers. So we sew together the two squares, leaving small gap to allow you to reverse fabric. We iron the square flat and add pleats as e iron, at same time. Lay the wire up inside the top finished edge of the square. Pin 36" bias tape on ,(no need to open bias tape folded edges out), along upper finished edge of square, ensuring wire stays tucked up along edge as you pin. Sew bias onto square being sure to catch both sides and keeping the wire in place. Repeat bias along bottom edge. Seems easier. Can also use grosgrain ribbon, bias is expensive and hard to get. Happy seing, great job everyone.
Grosgrain ribbon will slip when tied. You don’t want the healthcare worker to need to fiddle with it.
I have read few comments that vacuum cleaner bags might have fiberglass in them- they're not meant to be breathed through...
They might. I think we are at a crisis point... would they rather risk long-term exposure to fiberglass which will cause problems later on, or have the filtration that will save a life within the next 45 days. The HEPA filter makers are protecting their behinds from lawsuits by letting people know there is the fiberglass danger. So, let whomever you might want to make these for about about the fiberglass and let them decide.
Thank you for sharing your skills! They are absolutely adorable and I appreciate your sharing!
I'm not sure if I've missed something, but I can not find the pattern for the Fitted Face Mask. Could you please help me?
I cannot locate the pattern for the fitted face mask. Can you direct me to it?
Please let me know how to find printable instructions - thank you for your help.
Dhyana
A printable pattern and directions would be appreciated. Thank you for posting your tutorial!. We all need to help one another. I was thinking about making a door knob covers and fridge handle covers.I could toss them in the laundry with the kitchen towels everyday.
Thanks again!
I don't understand how to make the pocket. What am I missing???
Watch the video and it’s the first step she shows. Hope that helps!
I’m trying to adapt the pattern to help the bruising on these poor peoples faces. Suggestions welcome!
https://www.boredpanda.com/doctors-nurses-photos-fighting-coronavirus/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_content=stickybar
Would it be possible to use two 36” or 1yd pieces per mask? That means 9” across the mask-body and 13.5” tail on each side to tie behind the head. Since bias tape is generally sold in 3yd lengths, this would allow for 1 1/2 masks worth of tape per 3yd package and result in a lot less wasted tape.
Just wondering if 13.5” on each side would be enough to secure behind the average adult head?
Shouldn't this say three pieces of fabric.
Your tutorial is a wonderful, thoughtful and time consuming gift to our country. My sister works in a hospital and just texted me with a desperate request for face masks! Thank you so much for your time, efforts and patience! God Bless You!
Goodness gracious! I need to proofread before hitting enter! 🙂 When I said time consuming, I meant that I know how long it takes to write such a detailed blog post with a tutorial. I so appreciate your time and efforts to present this wonderful tool to us! Thank you! God Bless You!
I can’t seem to find the free pattern. Can you point me in the right direction?
Beautiful job on these masks!
Thank you for such a great pattern! I've made several, read a ton, and finally this one is exactly what I was looking for!
Sorry, I'm having trouble finding the printable pattern.
Where is the pattern?
Pattern is on this same page. ...above.....follow the steps, don't believe there is a downloadable or paper pattern
I found the printable pattern when I right clicked on my mouse and clicked on PRINT. 21 pages showed up to print, I chose the pattern my daughter said she needed for the hospital she works at, and printed out the pattern part I needed. Hope this helps.
I'm confused about this in the middle of Step 2. Can anyone clarify?
"Pinch both corners of the top fabric and pull them downwards to meet the bottom. Do the same on the back fabric."
Is there a trick to tying these on the face properly? I made one and it gaps quite a bit at either side of my face when tied on. Almost like it's too big?
you may have them too wide after sewing pleats. should only be 3-4 inches wide max.
What gauge floral wire works best? If making my own bias tape will a 1" width be enough.
I love this pattern. I made two adjustments. One, I added one more pleat. That helped decrease the gap on the sides. The total height of the finished pleated mask is about 3". For the wire, I found RapiClip plant twists 8"/100 pack in the gardening center. They work great. They are enclosed in a plastic coating, so you don't have to worry about rusting or poking through the fabric. Thank you for the immense amount of time it takes writing a good pattern and creating updated videos.
Thank you for the comment on the additional pleat and the RapiClip plant twists.
Thank you SO much! Great tip on using RapiClip! I'll have to try that.
Thanks for the idea about the plant ties. I’ll check around for them. 😉
Regarding the 4 pleats: I’m a nurse and have spent a LOT of time in masks. One of the major reasons for the pleats is to make room for the nose. If you make the pleats smaller, they will be flatter, thereby possibly smushing noses. I’d really test that with people who will be wearing them.
Can this be made without the floral wire. Kind of like the one made with elastic, only substituting 1/2" bias tape instead? Is 40" the correct length of the bias, and not 54" ? Thank you.
I'm thinking that stainless steel or aluminum wire would work well here too - probably the stainless steel (not too stiff though) as aluminum is so soft and breaks after very little bending.
I would love to be able to print instructions to follow as I work. I trust that you're working on that. Thank you so much for these excellent instructions on this really nice mask.
There is a printable instruction sheet located at the very end of the blog post. It can be right-clicked and then saved to your computer. If you can't get it to save you can also take a screenshot of it.
Thanks.
Kimberly, thank you for this amazing tutorial. Your instructions with video support and photos are very clear. This is the most neatly finished mask pattern I've seen in the last few days, and I've checked out several.
I was able to find the link to a printable pattern on your blog post for the fitted mask, but not for this Bias Tape Surgical Mask. Can you help me to find it please? Is it actually on the page above?
The image is blurry and hard to read , even at web page size for screen shot.
Another note - I see that many questions are repeated and answered over and over. I'd urge people to read all of the comments before asking to be sure the matter hasn't already been covered.
So many comments! but I still need clarification on one point: I'm using what I thought was 1/2" bias tape but it's nearly impossible to sew over the edge. It's too small. When I open this tape up, it measure 1". What does yours measure? It looks more like 2". Thank you!
Make sure it is the double fold bias 1/2" bias tape, not single fold. That might be the difference you a seeing.
If you are using 1/2" double-fold bias tape it will measure 1" when opened up. It's possible you are using 1/2" single fold bias tape which would be narrower than the recommended size.
Thank you for the clarification. That's exactly what I used. Found it harder to manipulate than you seemed to :). Will try again.
Wouldn’t 1/2 “ double fold be almost 2” wide when fully opened up? I’m making my own bias tape and I’m confused by this too. Starting with 1 inch wide fabric is way too small. Please clarify. Thanks for all your time and energy!
When unolded completey, yes 2". I was referring to opening up the middle fold. Sorry for the confusion.
Has anyone tried this pattern over an N95 mask? hoping it fits over it or can be worn alone if needed with a filter. Thanks.
There's a mask that is shaped differently than these, more "fitted" -- altho these can work - if made larger.
Do you have a one-pager document for the tutorial for the flexible nose mask with the filter pocket? I am organizing a "virtual" sewing party this Sunday to make masks. I will share your excellent video with the group (thank you!), but would love to include a 1 pager of written instructions, similiar to what you did with the "How to Sew a Face Mask" document. Does this exist and I am just missing it?
Thank you!!
Go to the Print icon at the end of the document (before comments) & when you select print, you can usually select Print to a PDF (if using Win10) & then save to your files OR you can just print the one page -- depending on your printer, it's between pages 48 - 51.
It would be great if you posted a pdf for the instructions. I printed this and it printed ~20 pages with all the comments listed. Thanks for the effort, I appreciate your work and will be making masks.
Is a PDF format of this pattern available? yourdocstopdf.com doesn't work.
I am still super confused on the pocket part of the tutorial, I am definitely a visual learner.
Would love a quickie video that demonstrates that part of the tutorial 🙂
For a filter you could also use a piece of surgical wrap. 600 weight is being tested, and based on the reading I've done, they appear to be 4% more effective than n95 masks!
In your video you said to cut the bias tape 18" long, which I did. Wish I had read your instructions before I cut all my bias tape for several masks to 18". Gotta figure out how to still use it.
What size do you cut the filter for the Bias Tape Surgical Face Mask.
I just struggled through making the mask. I could not figure out how to add another tuck without reducing the size of the mask to very tiny. The gaps along the sides really render it ineffective. I think I'll have to find a different design.
Just make it w/o the extra tuck. On future ones, you can add an extra inch to the height of fabric when you cut it out.
I just saw a picture of a couple of healthcare workers wearing disposable masks. They only had 2 pleats but it looked as if the pleats were much deeper than what this pattern calls for. I think I might try cutting this 9" square and then make only 2 very deep pleats.
I can’t find how to download the pattern
I came looking for some quick instructions for face masks & checking between this one & the other pattern you offer (elastic ear hooks). I plan to modify it according to my needs. I will use rolled elastic hair ties to attach the mask & attach w/ fleece or bias binding at the sides. After measuring my husband, to ensure the elastic is secure - but not pulled too tightly, the width of the mask needs to be 10-11" (Adult Large) & another inch deeper. For the nose bridge I'll use 3/8" w wire plant ties covered w/ white Duct Tape, to be removable for laundering. And instead of adding a filter pocket, I think I'll move the seam down below the top edge & leave a 2-3" opening or behind the top pleat make a slit & overcast to prevent raveling (hidden, to ensure it won't irritate face) & insert the filter.
On the outside they should be going down.
I love your pattern! Is there a way to make the pleated mask above but with elastic ties instead of bias tape?
Can I use 9x6 inch fabric to make the mask?
You do not need to worry about adding wire of any kind if making for hospital staff because the N95 and the other 2 types of paper (hospital) masks that we would insert in the pocket, have the wire already at the nose bridges. I made 40 of these masks, they are easy to do after you make the first one (several times rewatching video), to give to my staff members(Nurses, MD's and MA's and extras to donate to other areas of hospital. Save yourself time don't add the wires !
You do not need to worry about adding wire of any kind if making for hospital staff because the N95 and the other 2 types of paper (hospital) masks that we would insert in the pocket, have the wire already at the nose bridges. I made 40 of these masks. The first one was difficult (several times watching video), but then was easier. Gave them to my staff(Nurses, MD's and MA's and extras to donate to other areas of hospital. Save yourself time don't add the wires !
I cannot find the link to download the pattern.
I can't find the free pattern to download.
I just got the materials to make these! I've cut all the fabric squares, but am unsure of the size of the filters? I understand you would make it smaller, but is there an exact size recommended for this design?
How do I get the free download on masks
Hi Kimberley- I also can’t find the free pattern to download. Can you please share--this pattern looks easier than the one I've been making and like many here in the comments, I'd like to start mass producing the masks to donate to hospitals. Please share (and be sure to add the width and correct length of bias tape.) It fit is possible to obtain pdf via email I'd be grateful.
With appreciation! Wendy
Thank you so very much for this wonderful pattern. It was so clear and easy to follow. I'm excited to see what you will pattern you will share next.
Hi! If we pre-treat (wash) the fabric can these masks be washed and therefore be re-used? Any guidance from CDC in that yet?
Just want to make sure they’d still be safe bc it would be great for my husband’s team that are providing lunches for school children who otherwise wouldn’t be getting lunch since schools are out. This way they could wash them and re-use each day if need be.
I just ordered materials and am ready to start sewing! Thank you for posting this helpful tutorial.
Hello! Would it be okay if I used your pattern for a filmed library program with attribution? Let me know, thank you!
Would love to print the PDF pattern but I didn't see the link..... Thanks.
Just FYI color safe bleach does not disinfect.
And thank you so much for this tutorial! It’s the best I’ve seen!
Hello and thank you so much for posting these videos! I've made one elastic mask and one bias tape mask. My favorite feature is the inside opening to insert a filter, not everyone wants the bias tape ties though. Do you see any reason why the filter mask design would not work with the elastic ties? Really anxious to try one out today. Thanks!
I just want to thank you for this tutorial. I want to apologize for people who act so
negative and poorly when receiving a GIFT! Something that didn’t have to be purchased and was given out of the goodness and compassion of your heart in this unprecedented time we ALL find ourselves! I had to stop reading your comments because the pettiness was overwhelming me.
Thank you again.
People remember to be kind AND considerate to each other!
To PRINT.......EDIT --SELECT ALL---Print (I chose to print 1st 20 pages in color as the ramider of the 56 are the comments).
To PRINT…….EDIT –SELECT ALL—Print (I chose to print 1st 20 pages in color as the REMAINDER are the comments).
thank you for the mask patterns - even I can understand them.....
So elastic shelves are getting bare - and bias tape would be costly, and I cant make it myself - any suggestions as to what other thing that could be used to tie the back of the mask??? Ive got lots of narrow ribbon - but isnt it awkward to tie two different knots or bows behind the head?? wouldnt one tie work?? Im not a nurse ( nor a sewing person) so I havent tried any of this before......
we are starting to use grosgrain fabric ribbon. But you do need two ties.
I am brand new to sewing. I was only able to find .875 wide double fold or 1/2 inch single fold bias tape. Is there a way to adapt either the pattern or bias tape to make this work?
Did I miss the printable version!
Did I miss the printable version?
Will broadcloth fabric work for this mask, or is it not 100% cotton and/or not tightly woven??
Thank you so much for helping us make these masks for the healthcare professionals!
TIES: A package of bias tape (at least the ones in my stash) is 4 yards long. You can get 2 masks from a package. I cut 2 36" piece. Then I divide the remainder in half. The usually gives each mask a 36" for the bottom and a slightly longer piece for the top. Even on my big head (I wear men's hats) it works.
Many thanks for your excellent, clear instructions!!! I am organizing the sewing of hundreds of masks needed locally and this is the best pattern I've seen. Much appreciation to you!
I forgot to mention... Anyone looking to purchase 1/2" double fold seam binding, I found a great supplier on Etsy. (No affiliation!) I ordered seven 50 yard spools on Friday and had it on Monday. Just ordered 450 more yards for the huge mask effort I'm working on. Queen of Binding or something like that.... Excellent service and product!
I don’t have a sewing machine I have none of the supplies you list. I’ve terrified to leave my house even to go to the grocery store. I’m in a high risk category and I’m afraid I will die if I get corona. I live alone I have no one who can go out for me. I’m running out of groceries. I have not left my house since 3/14. How can I make a mask in the next 24-48hours without a printer for the pattern or a sewing machine? I don’t even have needles or thread. How do I even begin?
Google the bandana and rubber band mask, its a great alternative for short term wearing!
Thanks so much for sharing your videos and templates, I've shared them many times with friends and with friends in hospitals. I'm working on them right now for urgent care clinic and hospitals. The feedback we got from some is that the masks with ties are the most wanted since some elastics (esp if cut) fell apart in commercial washers.
Thank you for tutorials. It was suggested to me by a shopper touse 100% cotton flannel for the inside piece of the mask ( flannel would be next to the face) what is your take on this?
Also is it necessary to lined with interfacing?
I would NOT use a furnace filter or a vacuum filter as some have said.... not before checking out exactly what it is made from. Ask yourself do you want the stuff the furnace filter is made from in your lungs? Some of these are made of particles that would leave permanent damage if breathed into the lungs .
Thank you for this pattern. When making the children's mask, how long would you make the bias tape? I'm making a few for.my cousin's daughter and don't have anyone to test out lengths.
I have the same question!
Are these safe to put in a dryer? Thank you!
Is there a printable pleating guide like the one you showed in your video?
Just wanted to let you know this is the best easy tutorial and pattern. Thank you!
Could I use poly/cotton fabric? They will not be used in hospital setting.
Great tutorials! Thank you so much.
Thank you so much for this easy to follow and much needed tutorial. I've been trying so many...BUT this one makes the most scene to me! Now I can finish sewing for my huge family...and more!
Excellent tutorial, however I spied something I've never seen before. It's a padded board with metal on the sides, you added straight pins to it to pull the bias tape through.
Is there a tutorial on making that board, or did you purchase?
Thank you!
Hi all
RELAX about the length of the ties. This does not need to be exact like a quilt or a garment. An inch or two in either direction is irrelevant. I made my strips out of the same fat quarter that I made the front from. Had enough that came to 43" each. Would have made 3 strips and used on another mask but would they would have been too short. So leave it. Works jut fine
Hi there,
Like your idea.
For some reason I can not find the printed directions for the Bias tape face mask.
The link keeps taking me back to the you tub video
Hi there!!
Love the video.
I was just wondering what are the filters that you used for this masks?
Thanks!!
Can you use fabric in place of bias tape? We can not get bias tape where I live. Thanks in advance
I’ve been using homemade bias tape. It takes some time to make but it still works!
Are there any special washing instructions? Toss them in with regular load of laundry?
Can't find printable pattern. Thanks.
How long do I cut the bias tape for the children’s size?
I need an answer for this as well!
I do as well.
think about front of mask: pleats face down. if they faced up when wearing, 'stuff' can drop down into the 'pocket' of each pleat. we don't want that.
What would the correct measurement adjustments be to make this a child mask?
What a great tutorial. There are a ton out there and this is by far the best I've seen. I'm going to give it a try. Wanted to use the ear savers but not sure how to do that. I guess just make the bias tape shorter and into a circle? Do you think that would work?
I love your patterns. Thank you for sharing so that we can make masks to help others and prevent the spread of this terrible virus!
A quick question...
I'm using extra wide, double fold bias tape. It was all that was available in the stores. How should I adapt your pattern or is there none to be made?
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I like that you use the bias, but tying the bias behind my head doesn't give me confidence.
I have tried multiple types of masks but I have not made this style-these will be the next ones I think.
Good site you have here.. It's difficult to find excellent writing
like yours nowadays. I seriously appreciate people like you!
Take care!!