Make your own fabric face masks
The last few weeks, I have had many requests for fabric face masks. In order to encourage others to make these masks, I’m putting the pdf pattern and instructions for anyone who wants to download it.
Download pdf pattern and instructions
Homemade masks will not prevent someone from becoming infected with Covid-19. They are not as effective as surgical masks or N95 respirators but research has found homemade masks can “significantly reduce the number of microorganisms expelled by the wearer.” At this point in time, it is important that medical frontline staff get the medical grade masks.
A tightly woven 100% cotton fabric is the best fabric to use. If you’re not sure what tightly woven means hold it up to the light, you should not be able to see through it. Please make sure that you prewash your fabric using a mild detergent and do not use fabric softener. This will help to shrink the fabric to prevent it from shrinking later on after it’s been sewn.
For people with heart problems, this type of mask needs to be used with care so as not to reduce airflow.
If you are making these for others, Please wash the masks thoroughly with gloved hands after you have made the masks and store in sealed bags.