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While the shelter in place order has helped many people remain safe from the coronavirus, there are still plenty of situations that require trips outside, such as restocking your pantry or putting gas in your car. With shortages of medical-grade masks, such as the N95, it’s crucial for those who aren’t part of the essential workforce to make their own out of fabric. Additionally, you can donate extra homemade masks to the healthcare industry for when they run out of higher-grade alternatives. To start contributing to the mask supply, take advantage of this step-by-step sewing tutorial.

How to Sew Fast Simple Face Masks

1. Cut the Fabric

To reduce the spread of the virus, opt for tightly woven fabrics like high-thread count cotton sheets or good quality quilting cotton fabric. If you don’t have sheets to spare or good quality cotton fabric, choose any material that won’t irritate the sensitive skin of the face, and still allows for breathing, such as rayon or silk. Cut two, rectangular pieces that measure 10 by 6 inches each, and stack them on top of each other.

2. Sew the Rectangles

sewingNext, sew around all four edges, connecting the two rectangles on all sides. On both of the long, 10-inch sides, fold over about a quarter of an inch, and sew it down. This will create a small hem on the top and bottom of the inner side of the mask. When sewing the short, 6-inch sides, fold over a half-inch of the fabric to create hems here as well. 

3. Add the Elastic

These half-inch folds will leave just enough room to slip pieces of elastic through. The elastic strings should also be around 6 inches or longer. Tie the ends of the elastic together to create the bands that will hook around your ears. To prevent the mask from sliding around on the elastic, make a couple of extra stitches to attach the fabric to the strings.

 

If you’re looking for some sewing advice to improve your mask-making skills, The Sewing Center of Kalispell, MT, is here to help. With over 30 years of experience, they’re proud to help passionate sewers and newcomers alike. In addition to needles, thread, and other basic supplies, they also carry advanced sewing machines and embroidery items. To learn more about their shop, visit the website. You can also call (406) 752-7058 to speak with a friendly staff member.

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