The Best Types of Elastic for Face Masks: 7 TESTED

I tested 7 different types of elastic to find the best ones for face masks. I sewed samples and rated each one based on: comfort, how easy they were to sew through, how durable they were after being sewn, washed, and dried. I found the best type of elastic for face masks is 1/4″ (6mm) … Read more

4 Most Tightly Woven Cotton Fabrics for Face Masks

I recently finished a 2-week research binge on the different types of cotton (I covered 70+ types!). Some cotton fabrics are more tightly woven than others. Examples of tightly woven cotton include denim, cotton sateen, percale, and poplin. Bedsheets are a good place to find cotton percale and sateen. I recommend getting light to medium … Read more

4 Best Fitted Face Mask Patterns (Fit-Tested by Hospitals)

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends fitted face masks that “fit closely over the nose, cheeks and chin of the wearer” (source, page 10). This is to stop/reduce unfiltered air moving in or out of the mask through gaps. I’m going to share face mask patterns that fit closely around the nose, cheeks, and chin, … Read more

How to Make 3 Layer Face Masks according to WHO (+ Patterns)

Since June, the World Health Organization (WHO) has recommended 3 layer face masks. The ideal mask has a water-resistant outer layer, a polypropylene middle layer (like interfacing), and a water-absorbent inner layer to absorb your droplets. To make a 3 layer mask, you can sew a normal 2 layer one and use a filter insert … Read more

Craft Passion Mask Review – DON’T SEW Until You Read This (6 Tips)

I made the Craft Passion face mask 9 times for myself, 2 adults, and 2 older kids (aged 10-12). I made the ‘teen/woman’ size with no filter pocket or nose wire. Here’s my review. The pattern looks great, it’s relatively easy to sew, and it’s recommended by 11+ hospitals.  It takes twice as long to sew … Read more

Blue Shop Towels for Masks: Good Filter? Safe? Washable?

Today I’m investigating if we can use blue shop towels in face masks. Are they a good, breathable filter? Are they washable? And most importantly, are they safe? Overall, blue shop towels by Toolbox are better at filtering than cotton. They’re harder to breathe through than an N95 mask, but still manageable. They’re not washable. … Read more