I've lost count of the different methods I've tried, and I did start out using fabric left over from other projects, so the following technique wouldn't really work. Thanks to my mom, I have a stack of quite a few lovely prints in fat quarters and yardage.
This method can be used for both elastic and fabric ties.
Here are some of the tips/important points I've picked up from friends who have been making these masks for for health professionals:
- Use two distinctive fabrics so the wearer knows which side was against their face last.
- Use lighter colors for the inside of the mask so it is easier to see if the mask is soiled
- The pockets are appreciated as they allow the wearer to add filter material
- Right now it seems to be easier to get sheets delivered than fabric, so I've order a king sized sheet set to use for lining and fabric ties.
- Fabric ties are better than elastic in medical settings as they can sterilized and offer the option of being tied behind the ears or around the head.
Fabric prep:
Sewing the strips together:
- Place one of the 4" strips right sides together with the public fabric, raw edges together
- Sew with a 1/4" seam
- Repeat with the other 4" strip
Pressing the strips:
- Lay the piece right side up and press the fabric flat, seams pointing toward the lining pieces
- Turn lining pieces wrong side to public fabric and press again
Cutting:
- Cut to length (9" for adults, 7.5" for kids)
- Cut two pieces of elastic 7" long
I'm using foldover elastic when I run out of braided elastic |
Adding the elastic loops
- Lay the piece flat, right side up
- Pin elastic pieces to the two short ends
- Fold the lining up & over the elastic and pin in place
- Stitch with 1/4" seam allowance
Finishing the mask
- Turn the mask right side out
- Stitch 3/8" from the top edge
- Pin tucks along the two short edges
- Top stitch over tucks
Adding the Nose Bridge Wire
- Cut a piece of twist tie 12" long.
- Double over and twist together
- Make a small slit on the back side of the mask at the top
- Slide the twist tie into place.
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