Fitted Mask
with String Ties
Skill Level:
Intermediate
Estimated Time:
15-20 minutes
Seam Allowance:
3/8” unless otherwise noted
Fabric:
Light to medium weight woven cotton (dishcloths, bedsheets, quilting fabrics etc.).
1
Using the pdf template, cut 2 x Main Fabric, 2 x Lining and 2 x Filter Pocket.
2
Fold in short edges of Filter Pockets twice (each fold should be 1/4”). Press and sew.
3
With right sides together, sew along curved edges of all pieces and clip seams.
4
with right sides together, pin Main Fabric and Lining Fabric together along side seams. Sew side seams.
5
Turn inside out and pin Filter Pocket into mask (Wrong side of Filter Pocket facing right side of Lining Fabric). Sew a stay-stitch along both long edges.
6
Cut 2 bias ties: 40” x 2” (these MUST be cut on the bias to accomodate curved edges of mask). If you need to join 2 pieces to achieve necessary length, join and sew at a 90 degree angle as shown.
7
View of joined bias tape strips.
8
To make your first tie, fold tie fabric in half lengthwise, press.
9
Next, fold one side in to meet the crease in the middle, press.
10
Repeat for other side.
11
Press once more with both sides folded in. Then, repeat steps 8-11 for your second tie.
12
Fold ties in half and press to mark middle.
13
To finish ends of bias ties, fold in ends 1/4” and press
14
Lining up middles, pin both ties to mask and sew along entire length of the tie being careful to catch all layers as you sew.
15
Pocket is accessible to fit any filter filter of your choice.
16
Exterior of finished mask.
17
Package the masks, be sure to include the note that is in the pdf, and send to a hospital in need.
Fabrics & Filters
Here’s the deal, we’re not trying to be prescriptive—we want you to use what is readily at-hand, easy, and available. There may be a few materials that you have lying around that you didn’t know are great to repurpose for masks, and that’s where we come in…
EFFECTIVE FABRICS
Materials To Use
Woven cotton, cotton/polyester blends, silk, flannel, quilter’s cotton, unused mechanic/car shop towels, non-woven polypropylene (NWPP) and linen. Think—dish towels, T-Shirts, pillow cases, sheets, and scarves.
Pro Tip: You’re going to want to use two layers (four is even better) of these materials to make your masks truly effective.
Why these materials? They’re breathable, accessible, and easy to work with! Breathability is key. If you can't breathe well through the mask you are more likely to adjust it.
Materials NOT To Use
Synthetics, polyester, spandex - These are bad ideas because the virus can survive on those surfaces for a long period of time.
EFFECTIVE FILTERS
Materials To Use
(MUST be sandwiched between fabric for safety)
Coffee filters, A 1900+ furnace filter (2 layers), tyvek, vacuum cleaner bag, non-woven polypropylene (NWPP), unused mechanic/car shop towels
Materials NOT To Use
HEPA filters have glass particulate that you DO NOT want to be breathing.
Cleaning & Care
- Wash hands for 20 seconds (yeah, yeah—hum Happy Birthday twice) with soap and water before touching or putting on a mask.
- If wearing the mask, DO NOT fidget, touch, or adjust it.
- Remove the mask at the back, DO NOT touch the front.
- Wash your hands for 20 seconds after you remove the mask
- Discard filter and wash masks daily and before wearing again. Use color safe bleach or boil for 20 minutes.
KEEP IN MIND
Wearing a mask does not mean you do not have to practice other recommended activities: stay at home unless going out for essentials/exercise, avoid groups, maintain social distance of 6+ feet from people, wash your hands, do not touch your face.