If you are like the rest of the world, you’re getting used to the temporary, new normal. With the CDC’s new recommendation to wear a face mask when in the public sphere, it only becomes apparent that a face mask might be a good investment. Yet, the brunt of surgical masks and n-95 should be reserved for those who are high risk, or the fearless health workers protecting us!
Luckily, making a face mask is incredibly easy and can be made with everyday materials. Thus, whether you are a home care nurse, a caregiver, or someone looking to protect your elderly loved ones, here is a quick and easy facemask tutorial!
What You’ll Need
To make this mask,you’ll need:
● 1 (20” x 4”) piece of fabric. If you cannot get to a store, you can use an old t-shirt.
● 4 (1’3” x 1”) strips of fabric for the straps.
● 1 way of affixing your mask. This can be a needle and thread; but, it can also be a stapler, if you do not have sewing materials at your disposal.
● 1 coffee filter
Assembling the Mask
To make your mask, take your fabric and cut it into two pieces, each measuring at 10” x 4”. Place the 10” x 4” pieces in line with each other. Pin the fabric together. Now, you are going to attach the perimeter of the two pieces of fabric, leaving a small allowance at the top. This will allow you to turn the mask inside out, as well as place a filter inside.
Once you have finished securing the perimeter, you can turn the mask inside out through the allowance.
Pleat Your Mask
Once your mask has been turned inside out, it’s time to make the pleats. This will create a snugger fit as well as create a thicker mask. To complete the pleats, fold the mask over itself three times. You don’t want the folds to overlap each other, but have the fold from each pleat come in contact with the other. Pin the pleats down to maintain integrity of shape. Then sew down each side to secure the pleats.
Attach the Straps
Grab the fabric that you have set aside for the straps. If you are using an old t-shirt, any leftover elastic from the sleeve will work great! Place each strap in the corner of the mask and pin down. Sew each corner in to secure the straps. You now have a successful mask! Place your coffee filter within the upper seam, and you are good to go!