Social distancing and wearing face masks is our new normal. Face masks don’t need to be boring. Like any accessory, they can reflect our style and interests through our fabric and color choices. I’ve been making sewn face masks for my family and friends since mid-March. Based on my research, here are my favorite face mask patterns, tutorials and tips.

Cricut Sewn Face Mask Pattern

The Cricut pattern is my favorite. It is shaped to fit comfortably over your nose with no gaps, and is available in two adult and two child sizes. Cricut crafters can cut out a reusable pattern on card stock paper with their Cricut Air 2, or cut out and add markings to their fabric with their Cricut Maker. If you don’t own a Cricut, a downloadable PDF is provided on their blog.

Once you’ve cut out the four fabric pieces, it’s time to assemble. I’m a visual person, so I like to watch video tutorials before I start a project. Below is the Cricut tutorial.

This mask has a pocket so you can add a filter for extra protection. I use coffee filters in mine. Read this HuffPost article for household items you can use as a filter.

Cricut No Sew Face Mask Pattern

Cricut’s no sew face mask pattern is a great alternative if you don’t sew. They provide the pattern in an adult and child size to cut out a face mask using a t-shirt. The patterns are available in Design Space for the Cricut Air 2 and Maker, or you can download the PDF.

Better Homes and Gardens Pleated Face Mask Tutorial

Novice sewers may find the Better Homes and Gardens pleated face mask easier to construct. It’s made from fewer pieces and straight seams / top stitching. This mask also has a filter pocket. Below is the Better Homes and Gardens tutorial.

Better Homes and Gardens No Sew Face Mask Tutorial

The Better Homes and Gardens no sew tutorial demonstrates how to fold a bandana, fabric square, or t-shirt into a face mask. If you don’t sew or need a quick mask, these will do the job. Below is the Better Homes and Gardens tutorial.

Behind the Head versus Around the Ears Construction

Face masks can be constructed to tie behind the head or around the ears. With masks tied behind the head, you’re able to adjust the fit and eliminate gaps more easily. However, some people prefer the convenience of the over the ears construction, because you can put them on and take them off more easily. If you’re making masks to donate, you should use the over the ears construction, because this pattern uses a lot less elastic.

Elastic Alternatives

These days toilet paper and elastic are hard to find. Here are some alternatives to braided elastic:

• Elastic cord: Used for jewelry making and less bulky than braided elastic
• Pony tail ties: Best for over the ears construction
• Elastic headbands: Tie two elastic headbands together to reach your desired length. Then, seal the ends by burning them with a match
• Bias tape
• Ribbon
• Tops of socks
• T-shirt yarn / strips: Below is a tutorial for making your own t-shirt yarn

For a mask to be effective, you have to make sure:

• it covers your nose and mouth
• it is snug on your face with no gaps, especially on the sides
• the fabric is a tight weave; quilter’s cotton is preferable. This NBC News article provides guidance on which fabrics are best for face masks
• it is washed in warm water and machine dried, as needed

To learn more about face masks and COVID-19, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

As of today, I’ve made close to 50 masks for family and friends. It has helped ease my anxiety. It’s rewarding to know that I’m doing something to protect those I love and people in my community. I hope you find this information helpful.

Crafters can take this opportunity to use their fabric stash for a good cause. Take this down time to learn a new craft or try a new recipe.

I wish you and your families continued health,

Jackie

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