DIY Face Mask with Ties

Bias Tape or Ribbon

Bias tape or ribbon ties should be long enough to tie over the top of the head and then at the back of the neck. They can also be held securely in place using barrettes or other hair accessories as needed.

The Basic Face Mask

The face masks I ended up being happiest with are based on the instructions from Vanderbilt University Medical Center. I chose this design for several reasons. It is simple to make. I could use items I already owned. It is adaptable for different face sizes and shapes. And my local hospitals will accept donations of this kind of mask as well. I made several small adjustments to the design, however, to accommodate the different materials I have on hand to use and to create a filter pocket.

Additionally, I felt the measurements they provide are a little on the small size, so I made our masks slightly bigger for better face coverage. Maybe we just have big faces! Once you have the basics down, however, you can adjust yours for your own family. Just be sure the mask fits securely over the nose and extends past your chin. You also don’t want gaping on the sides of the mask.

Here are the basics: you are making a rectangular mask with two layers of fabric and an interior pocket for a filter. It an be fastened to the head in a variety of ways.

For fabric recommendations, elastic ideas, and measurements, start at this link and then come back here for the full tutorial:

Making Your Face Mask

Step 1: Cut the Fabric

Cut a rectangle of each fabric — two total per mask.

Adult: 7.5” x 10.5”
Child: 6.5” x 8.5”

Adjust according to your family’s face size. If you are making masks to donate, make adult masks.

Step 2: Fold & Iron

Press the fabric. At the top of each piece, fold and press 1/4” over. Then fold and press again to create a double-fold hem. At the bottom fold and press 1/4” over.

Step 3: Pin Right Sides Together

Place the right sides of the two fabric pieces together. Pin or clip them together. Place a clip at each corner — this will keep the seams from getting too close to the edges.

I use quilting clips — which I love — but straight pins work very well, too.

If you are using flannel instead of a filter, sandwich the flannel between the two pieces of cotton.

Bias Tape or Ribbon

Bias tape or ribbon can be used as ties. You’ll need two sets of ties for security. They can also be added using the Ear Loop method. Simply sew four pieces of bias tape or ribbon instead of creating loops.