What I have learned af ter Making 100 Face Masks
The first thing I’ve learned is that I’m tired of making masks! Like many of you, when we first went into quarantine, I received so many request to make face masks. I also was inundated with mask patterns. Quite quickly I realized that most of the cotton face masks are extremely uncomfortable or they just do not fit properly. I wanted to share what I have learned after making hundreds of masks and hope this helps you to make the most comfortable and well fitted face masks.
Face Mask Sewing Patterns Review
First of all, there are so many free sewing patterns available to download and try. I have decided to include only the sewing patterns links that I liked.
The first style face mask that I like the most is the sewing pattern that I first saw on See Kate Sew. This mask has a 3D shape that sits off of your nose. I feel that it is less restrictive than other masks. The only part of the mask that is uncomfortable to me is the fold that sits on my cheeks. After wearing the mask for 9+ hours in the pharmacy, we face was dry. It is still a great pattern though. You do not need any nose piece to keep the cloth above your nose. It also is the best design if you wear glasses. It seems to make my glasses fog less.
The second style that I like was a very basic pattern from Made Everyday. This pattern is two simple rectangles that are folded accordion style. It is super quick and has a great fit. I modified the rectangle size to 6″ x 8″ for my 9 year old son. Another modification that I made was adding a loop elastic over the ears. I do not like the elastic to go over my head and tie. This pattern was not as good for people with glasses.
One of my least favorite patterns is the style below. This is the most common style that I have found from online retailers. These masks must have a metal nose pinch to stay in place. Maybe your experience has been different, but I find that when I talk, it would slowly slide down my face. If you are making this at home, you must add a strip of metal or other flexible material to keep the mask in place. Again I have substituted the ties for loop elastic.
Face Mask Supply List
When I first started making masks, I was using a simple 1/4″ elastic by the yard and scraps of old fabric. I found so make great materials that I would like to share with you that made making face mask so much easier. (This post contains affiliate links.)
Here are some of the great items that I have found on Amazon. The first is loop elastic. I think that it is a lot more comfortable than the regular elastic. There are so many options to try. I just liked this elastic because it came in a variety of colors. You can click here to search all the great choices.
The second item that I found are these nose strips. They are the only thing that holds the molded mask in place while talking. I put them in all my previously made mask. I cover them with fusible interfacing and iron them in place. They come with a sticky back. This helps the strip stay in place. . Then just stitch around the metal after completing the mask. (use caution when stitching…do not stitch the metal)
I hope this helps! Please leave a comment below. What is your favorite pattern? Are there any tips that you would love to share??
