This is the second tutorial I’m sharing for making medical masks, because I’ve made so many for my family and friends that I’m always seeking a simpler and easier way to sew them. And I think I’ve found it! I’ve made a few improvements from the first pattern I shared, and the result is a comfy, easy-to-sew mask that’s quick & simple to make.
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supplies needed:
- one piece of cotton fabric – 9″ x 14″
- two pieces of thin elastic – 6 1/2″ in length
- sewing machine
- iron
step 1 – prepare the mask
Cut a piece of fabric 9″ x 14″. With right sides together, fold in half and stitch together as shown below.
Trim seam; turn right side out and press.
Next, turn the edges under about a quarter of an inch and press. Do this to both ends.
step 2 – make the pleats
To create pleats, fold the mask in half lengthwise and press; then open. This is just to create a “line” in the center.
Next, about an inch or so above the middle line, bring the fabric down to meet the middle crease, creating a small pleat. Press.
Now about an inch or so beneath the middle crease, bring fabric up to meet the middle line. Press. You have now created a soft pleat in the center of the mask. Pin in place.
Take a piece of elastic and place the ends inside the mask at the top and bottom, as shown below. Pin in place.
Stitch the side seam, then stitch over the same seam once more for extra durability. Insert elastic and repeat this process for the other end of the mask. Press.
Remember this is not an official medical mask but nonetheless a great option for those of you social distancing in your everyday lives. Stay safe everyone!
The biggest compliment is a little share – pin the photo below!
This may be a silly question, but is it supposed to be worn with pleats facing outward or the pleats against your face to create a space for your mouth?
usually pleats facing outward. Not a silly question at all, as all masks are made differently.
I had tried another pattern. This was so much better! Less steps and easy to understand. Thanks for sharing!
So glad you liked it!
This is the easiest mask tutorial to be found. So simple and fast. These are really cute. Thank you so much for simplifying down to the basics! Love it!
thank you! Glad you liked it.
This is the easiest mask tutorial to be found. So simple and fast. These are really cute. Thank you so much for simplifying down to the basics! Love it!
Excuse me but you’re measuring is off the 9 by 14 is way to big
That’s the size I’ve been making for months and it works great. Maybe you aren’t folding it correctly?
Are you sure you are folding it in half? This cut size is to be folded.
Thanks for the great video. I turn mine with a fork, makes it easier. I like easy. Thanks for the wonderful instructions. Love it.
Is there a way to add a nose piece? Nice pattern!
I’ve zig- zagged a pipe cleaner in the top seam allowance so when you turn it it’s inside. I don’t know if this will help you.
What seam allowance should I use when making the mask
About a half inch
Thank you! Great pattern. I made 2 today and they fit well and are comfortable.
Could you recommend fabric sizes for an older and younger child?
Thank you!! I like this pattern better than what I was using. This is much simpler and nicer! Thanks for sharing!! 😊
Glad it helps!
I plan on making one to see how it goes. I’ve been making another style but wondered how you feel about adding fusible nonwoven interfacing to the mask?
I haven’t tried that. I’m sure it would work, but it may make the mask a bit thicker. I know there are a lot of different opinions on the safety of homemade masks, and I can’t say for certain if the interfacing would make it safer or not. But hey – feel free to adapt it as you please. Glad you liked the tutorial!
I have been using fusable interfacing since day one. It works very well. I fuse both pieces.
good tip!
Hey Wendy! Nice tutorial. The masks look so cool!!
thanks!
I made mine very similar to this. Love your fabrics! Thanks for sharing at Vintage Charm!
Thanks Cecilia. They’re easy to make, aren’t they?
When you say turn the edges in, in as inside …. they just dont turn inside easily, do i snip the ends to do this or ? Seems like a fold over the ends and stitch would be easier?
It’s tricky but that’s why I iron them as soon as turned inward
I actually press the folded sides BEFORE I sew the top seam. I find this is much easier.
you are right! good suggestion!
I think it’s easier to fold them in and press while the mask is still inside out. I just made two, very quick and cute!
,
Good input!
Oh thank you so much! I am not a seamstress and have been struggling to sew masks for my family. This is the ticket!
You are so welcome!
Wendy
Thank you for your posts and tutorials, love receiving your emails
Regards Michelle
Thanks for the easy peasy directions! I make a similar one, but with three smaller pleats, all facing downward. I also insert a the plastic strip from a bag of coffee into a casing I make across the top. It makes the mask super comfortable (keeps it from sliding down) and even more effective (supposedly). Appreciate these directions and your site Wendy! Take good care!
thanks for the comments!
I’m so happy for the idea of bread ties! I’ve thrown so many away!
It’s a beautiful mask , but in order to be most effective, both pleats need to fold down so that microbes cannot “sit” in the upward (2nd) pleat.
Good to know! Thanks.
Made 6 so far, easy to sew, and they look great! Thanks for sharing your expertise.
Thanks Roe! Glad you used the tutorial.
What size rectangle would you suggest for a child age 5-7?
I haven’t made any for children yet, but estimating the size by holding it up to a child’s face would be best.