We received a lot of comments requesting another tutorial for a face mask using straps instead of elastic so here ya go! Using the same construction as the previous tutorial, we just added an extra step. Again, the double layer of fabric creates an opening for inserting a filter for added protection. Be sure to follow these steps when wearing and handling masks to avoid spreading germs.
This mask is NOT medical grade but there is evidence showing that it can help reduce the spread of germs. If you would like to donate masks to medical centers locally, we recommend that you contact them beforehand and ask what requirements need to be met. Some need masks to be made from special materials. Not sure which material provides the most protection? Check out this article. If you’re looking for a simple mask that uses elastic hair ties, check out our other pattern.
Let’s take our quilting community to the next level and sew to make a difference that counts! We hope you enjoyed this basic tutorial and we can’t wait to hear about the impact it has for you.
Stay connected to FQS!
34 comments
Thank you Kimberly for the most understandable tutorial about making a face mask for someone without a great deal of experience sewing.
We’re glad you are enjoying it, Mary! Stay safe.
1)I used kitchen paper towel to make a prototype mask. Rather than a coffee filter used as an insert, maybe paper towel.
2)after the paper towel mask is completed, a small centered dart can be made to give mask a more “fitted” option over the nose if needed.
3) the paper towel mask can be two layered or 3 sheets. I used stick glue and a warm iron to fold over edges, set folds, and then sewed the side edges.
4) Rather than using ties or elastic on the disposable paper towel masks—I am still looking for some kind of small, comfortable clips to attach bias tape, elastic or paper ribbon to side paper edges OR just tack down straps.
5)Thanks so very much for the clear, optional patterns.
This is great, thank you! Could you make it into a PDF file for easier printing? That would be so helpful.
I’ll check on this and see if there is something we can do!
We added a free PDF download https://www.fatquartershop.com/face-mask-with-straps-free-pdf-pattern
Thank you, especially for the multiple sizes for adult masks. My city’s largest hospital, which will take the brunt of virus patients in the area has requested 100,000 masks from the local group making masks. Another hospital is requesting 10,000. I’d much rather be making a quilt, but I feel this is sewing I can do. First sewing for my family members, then for community. Stay well, friends!
Please make a pdf. I am especially interested because of the different sizes available. I am making for 3-65 Yao’s.
Here you go Donna – https://www.fatquartershop.com/face-mask-with-straps-free-pdf-pattern
Thank you for the size options!!
Thank you and as a “new” sew’er excited to take in this project!!!
Do you put pleats in the small (child) version? It seems awfully small after making one and not a lot of room left to make pleats. Any thoughts?
Gostava mais se as medidas fossem bem cm!!
How does the length of the ties change based on mask size?
Great pattern, I like all the sizes. I have made about a dozen so far. My hubby had his made 3 times. Each time I give him 1, some else wants one = SEW give his to them. Make him another then it goes and again LOL Will see how long he keeps this one. Going to check with hospitals tomorrow. Take care all
Just found your site. Great pattern. Thank you for the different sizes. One comment re the font color – I find the grey color difficult to read.
What do you recommend for a filter if desired? Is there an interfacing you could use? Would an extra layer of interfacing be appropriate?
Is there a PDF file to print out ? Great pattern.
Thank you !
Dot
Yes, we added a free PDF download https://www.fatquartershop.com/face-mask-with-straps-free-pdf-pattern
I was able to make this pretty easily. I did find the last step a little difficult and had to sew 1/2 inch over instead of 1/4 inch since the straps and pleats were pretty bulky. Also, I learned a little trick from one of the pillow tutorials for making the opening before turning it rightside out. I don’t know if I can explain it, but when you get to the end, pivot 90 degrees and sew to the edge of the fabric and then back a couple of times to make it more secure. I left the opening and plan on cutting some vacuum cleaner bags as filters – I heard they could be used. Then they can be removed, the mask washed and sanitized, and replaced. I also have Fat Quarter Shop ribbon that comes wrapped around FQ bundles that I’ve saved and will use that for the straps on the next one I make. Thanks for a great tutorial!!
Thank you for sharing this tutorial, I appreciate it!
How do you determine mask size for each person. I am making a few for myself and at least 1 or 2 for my husband and 1 for each of my kids. We all have different size faces. HA! I didn’t want to make masks too small or too big.
Thank you very much for the instructions on how to make the straps!! They are clear and much easier to do than the other instructions I have found!
thank you for the tutorial
Would the Fat Quarter Bundles you sell be useful for making these masks in the Regular size?
Yes, I think you could make quite a few masks from a fat quarter!
Please don’t use a vacuum cleaner bag as a filter insert. They can have fiberglass in them. If you want to insert a filter order one from a company or use an extra piece of cotton. A paper coffee filter may be ok also.
Thank you for posting this! Quick question for adult masks. How would you size a person. Where would you measure from and to?
Thanks!
If making my own hair tie what length of elastic do I need?
Many of those filters have fib
erglass. I have heard coffee filters work.
I been making mask. I ran out of elastic I have a lot of lace. I want to know if it is okay. All our fabric stores are close and Walmart do have any. I tried hair ties but it keeps braking my needle. Do it cut the hair tie and sew it. I really want to make a lot. So that is what is holding me up. Thank you.
I read where some are putting pipe cleaners in the top of masks for a fitted nose area. Or padded floral wire. This will secure the mask to your face better. And for the no-elastic ear pieces, use a tube sock, cut, starting at the top and make to look like hair bands. To keep from fraying, sew around and insert as you would a hair band. Good luck.
I haven’t tried, but saw all these pointers.
Good luck.