With more and more states requiring their citizens to wear cloth face masks in public, the supply of readily available masks is dwindling. You may want to opt to make your own face mask but not know where to start.
You'd be surprised that this cost-effective solution to guarding yourself against the virus is quite easy to make. They can be made of a variety of materials, including cotton shirts and other clothing items.
Follow these steps, and you'll have your own protective face mask in no time! While you're at it, you might as well make them for the whole family. It's a fun and easy project that can be completed in just a few minutes to a few hours.
Choose Your Material
First, you'll want to choose the outside material for your mask. Healthline suggests cotton, so feel free to use old clothing from around the house.
You can also purchase affordable cotton online from a fabric store. This option gives you the freedom to choose fun colors and prints.
Next, you'll want to select your filter. Experts interviewed by Today suggest that you use HEPA filters that are typically used for household appliances. A microparticle rating of 3000 seems to be the most effective.
If you can't find any filters, you can add multiple layers of fabric that has a tight weave. When choosing this fabric, check for two things.
When held up to the light, you shouldn't be able to see individual fibers. The fabric should appear as a solid piece.
You'll also want to make sure air can pass through it. You can test this by wearing the fabric with a pair of glasses. If they fog up, then the fabric isn't letting any air through. This could leave you exposed to unwanted pathogens.
While not nearly as effective, coffee filters and folded paper towels can also be used in a pinch.
Gather Your Supplies and Begin Construction
After you've selected your fabric and filter, you'll need to collect the remaining supplies. There are many ways you can construct a mask that range from simple to complex. We've compiled three.
The Bandana Face Mask
For this version, all you'll need is a cotton bandana, a coffee filter or paper towels, and a pair of hair ties.
- Fold the bandana in half
- Fold the top third down and the bottom third up
- Insert your filter between the folds
- Slide a hair tie on each end
- Tuck in the sides
- Fit to your face
This version is quick, easy, and budget-friendly. It's a great option if you're waiting on supplies for a more permanent solution to arrive, or if supplies are limited in your area.
The T-Shirt Face Mask
Healthline has a very detailed page dedicated to making your own face mask. The only additional material needed for this method is a pair of scissors.
- Cut a 7 in. piece of fabric from the full length of the front of the shirt
- Measure 6 in. on each side
- Leave half an inch of material on the top and bottom
- Cut out the 6 in. sections
- Insert your filter
- Fit to your face
- Tie the strings around your ears
If you don't like how your filter feels against your skin, you can an extra layer of fabric. Simply repeat the steps, and sandwich the filter between the two masks.
The Fully Sewn Face Mask
The most time-consuming method for creating your own mask is also the most durable. This fully sewn version requires a few additional materials. You'll want either a sewing machine or a hand sewing kit. You'll also need elastic and scissors.
The first thing you want to do is download your pattern. There are plenty of free options out there, and you can also purchase them from Joann Fabric and Etsy. Once you have your pattern, you should be set.
Alternative Mask Options
If making your own mask seems daunting to you, there is always the option of purchasing a cloth face mask online. This is also a wonderful option for anyone experiencing a real shortage of mask making materials in their area.
There are a variety of designs for every budget. You can even choose from fun, kid-friendly prints that will help your children feel more comfortable in their masks.
As we all try to stay safe during this time, just remember one thing. Whatever face mask you choose, you are doing your part to help stop the spread of COVID-19. For that, you should be proud.
