Fabric Face Masks

• Design 1
• Design 2
• Video Instructions
• N95 Mask Covers
• Downloadable PDF Patterns
• Elastics for purchase
• Easy non-sew face coverings (for personal use)

 

Mask Headbands 

To prevent masks from rubbing on ears, our staff have been enjoying these simply made headbands with buttons. Please consider making these as well.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Surgical Caps

Written Instructions can be found here

Youtube Instruction Video can be found here

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fabric Mask Making FAQ

Will the masks be sanitized before being worn?
Heywood Healthcare will sanitize all masks before individual use.

Will the mask be laundered and reused?
Yes, staff will be asked to launder and reuse donated masks.

I’ve made multiple sizes. How will you tell the difference?
When you have finished your masks, please use a Sharpie marker to mask size (Sm, Med, or Large). If you do not have a Sharpie, please somehow designate size for the masks before you drop them off.

Can masks be made out of gently-used fabric?
We request that masks be crafted from previously unused material.

Can metallic fabric be used?
We request that masks be crafted from non-metallic fabric.

Can fabric other than cotton or cotton flannel be used?
We request a tightly woven cotton fabric be used as the outer layer. Quilting cotton is excellent. A softer cotton such as flannel can be used as the inner layer if desired, but quilting cotton is also an acceptable inner later. Please avoid synthetic materials as they do not breathe well.

Should fabric be washed before constructing the masks?
Yes, please wash all fabric before cutting mask pieces to prevent masks from shrinking after construction.

Can glue be used in place of stitching?
We request that masks be stitched, not glued.

What kind of elastic can be used?
Flat elastic in 1/8”, 1/4”, or 3/8” widths will work with the mask patterns shown above. White is preferred, but other colors are acceptable. Rounded elastic is harder to sew securely in place, as well as less comfortable to wear around the ears.

What length elastic should be used?
6.5” for the Small, 7” for the Medium, and 7.5” for the Large works well for most people.

I can’t find the appropriate size elastic. Can I use larger elastic?
No, larger elastic would be very uncomfortable behind the ears. The good news is that wider braided elastic can be cut to the appropriate width using scissors or a rotary cutter. This only works with braided elastic, NOT knit elastic.

Can we use ties in place of elastic?
If flat elastic is not available, fabric ties can be sewn on the mask, one tie on each of the four mask corners. Ties should be approximately 1/4” width, sewn so there are no frayed edges, and approximately 15” for each corner.

Any recommendations on the seam allowance?
Our sewing community has recommended a 1/4” seam allowance.

Can I use a different pattern?
The guidelines on our website specify a pattern that will create breathable, washable, comfortable masks that will stay in place with minimal need to adjust them. Masks with pockets for filters are not requested at this time.