It can be time-consuming and fiddly sewing a pleated face mask. You need to fold each pleat the right size and space them out evenly. For those who want a face mask without pleats, here are 2 popular options: Option 1: make a rectangle mask with gathers. This looks very similar to a pleated mask, … Read more
Here’s an easy way to make a face mask carrying pouch / storage bag. It’s an ‘envelope’ design, so there are no zippers or poppers to install. Perfect for beginners. The insides are super neat thanks to the ‘french seam’ finish. Your pouch will have no raw edges. I also included small ties, so you … Read more
As a full-time glasses-wearer, I’m very familiar with the face mask fogging issue! So I sewed and tested 5 face mask patterns to find the best for glasses. These are all free printable patterns. I wore each one indoors and outdoors. I used the same fabric and number of layers to make the comparison fairer … Read more
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
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
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
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
When I was making face masks for others, a BIG problem I had was getting the ear loops the perfect size (hint: it never happened). This is when I came across DIY adjustable ear loops and straps, and it changed everything. This is the best way for wearers to get a custom, perfect fit, and … Read more
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
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