How to Make a Face Mask With Fabric Ties

Face masks have become an essential item for many during the pandemic. With recommendations from health organizations to wear a face covering in public settings, having a cloth face mask you can wash and reuse is important. Making your own face mask with fabric ties is an easy DIY project that allows you to customize the style and fit. This guide will provide step-by-step instructions on how to make a face mask with fabric ties.

Gather Your Supplies

Making a fabric face mask starts with gathering the right materials. Here’s what you’ll need:

Fabric: Use 100% cotton fabric in tightly woven patterns. Quilting cotton or cotton sheets work well. You’ll want at least 2 pieces of different fabrics for the front and back of the mask.
Fabric ties: Look for 1/4″ to 1/2″ wide cotton twill tape, cotton bias tape or fabric strips. You’ll need 4 ties total, each at least 16″ long.
Filter material (optional): For additional filtration, use a piece of non-woven interfacing fabric or a coffee filter.
Ruler: This helps measure and cut uniform fabric pieces.
Scissors: Sharp fabric scissors will achieve clean cuts.
Pins: These hold the fabric pieces together while sewing.
Sewing machine: A standard machine works fine. Make sure the machine is threaded and bobbin is full.
Hand sewing needle: Useful for finishing edges.
Thread: Use 100% polyester or cotton thread. Match the color to your fabric.

Prepare the Fabric

First, wash and dry the fabric on hot to pre-shrink it. This prevents the mask from shrinking later.
Decide on the size of mask you want. For an adult size, cut:

2 pieces of different fabrics for the front and back that are 9” x 6”
2 pieces of filter fabric that are 8” x 5” (optional)

Use a ruler and fabric scissors to carefully measure and cut the fabric to size. Cut along the grain of the fabric.
Take the 2 main fabric pieces and place them with the right sides facing each other. Pin along the top curved edge.

Sew the Top Seam

With pinned fabric ready, sew the top curved edge using a 1⁄4” seam allowance. Remove pins as you sew.
Stop sewing 1⁄4” before the ends to leave an opening. This will allow turning the mask right side out later.
Backstitch over the seam at the beginning and end for reinforcement.
Trim off excess thread tails and corners. Turn the fabric mask right side out through the opening.

Add the Optional Filter Layer

If using a filter material, position the filter piece on the wrong side of the front fabric piece.
The filter should cover the fabric fully. Pin the layers together.
Edge stitch around all 4 sides of the filter piece to attach it to the front fabric. Use a 1⁄8” seam.
Remove pins. The filter is now secured in the mask.

Attach Fabric Ties

Take one of the 16” long fabric ties and pin horizontally 1⁄4” from the top straight edge, aligning tie ends with the side seams.
Sew tie in place close to edges with a square stitching box at each end for reinforcement.
Repeat to attach a second 16” tie to the bottom straight edge, 1⁄4” from bottom.
Flip the mask over to the back side. Pin and sew 2 more ties along the top and bottom like previous step.

Sew Side Seams

With all 4 ties attached, fold the mask in half matching side edges. Pin along both sides.
Sew the 2 side seams from top to bottom using a 1⁄4” seam allowance and removing pins as you go.
Backstitch at top and bottom for durability.
Clip corners diagonally and trim excess thread. Turn mask right side out.

Finish the Seams

Inspect all fabric edges. If needed, trim any excessive fabric or threads for a tidy look.
Finish by hand sewing a whipstitch along the top curved seam’s opening. Knot thread securely.
Press all seams with an iron to flatten them. Be careful not to iron directly on the ties.

The fabric face mask with four integrated fabric ties is now complete! Check the fit and customize the measurements as needed for best coverage and comfort.

How to Properly Wear Your Fabric Face Mask

Now that you’ve made your fabric face mask, it’s important to wear it correctly to stay safe and prevent spreading illness:

Clean hands: Wash hands or use hand sanitizer before handling the mask.
Secure ties: Place mask on face and secure upper ties snugly behind head. Secure lower ties behind neck and under ears.
Adjust fit: Adjust fabric mask to fully cover nose and mouth. Make sure there are no gaps on the sides.
Avoid touching: Avoid touching the front of the mask when wearing and removing. Only handle ties.
Remove carefully: Remove mask by untying lower ties first. Fold outside corners together and place in washing machine.
Wash regularly: Machine wash mask after daily use with your regular laundry. Dry fully on hot.
Replace when needed: Replace mask if it becomes damaged or difficult to breathe through.

Properly wearing your fabric face mask as well as good hand hygiene and physical distancing can help slow the spread of illness. Stay safe!

Frequently Asked Questions About Making Fabric Face Masks

Here are answers to some common questions about sewing fabric face masks:

What fabrics work best for making masks?

Tightly woven 100% cotton fabrics are recommended, like quilting cotton. High thread count cotton sheets also work well. Avoid using loose knits which can stretch.

What’s the best way to get a custom fit?

Cut different sized rectangles to test for good coverage of your nose and mouth before sewing the final mask. Measure the distance from nose to chin and cheekbone to cheekbone.

How should I clean my fabric mask?

Machine wash regularly with your laundry using hot water and dry fully on high heat. This helps kill viruses and bacteria. Handwashing gently with soap and hot water also works.

Can I wear a disposable mask underneath?

Yes, you can wear a disposable mask underneath for added filtration. Just make sure you can still breathe comfortably.

How often do I need to replace my fabric mask?

Plan on replacing your fabric mask every few months or if it becomes misshapen or damaged. Elastic ear loops may need replacing sooner.

What’s the best way to add a nose wire?

Use twist ties or pipe cleaners inside a pocket sewn into the top seam. This helps prevent foggy glasses and customize the fit.

Should I be concerned about fabric dyes?

Avoid brightly dyed fabrics which can bleed or fade. Wash/dry fabric before sewing to prevent transfer. Use colorfast, Oeko-Tex certified dyes.

Can I layer multiple fabrics for filtering?

Using 3-4 tight weave fabric layers can enhance filtration. But too many layers can impede breathing. Find the right balance.

How can I make masks for kids?

Use smaller rectangle sizes based on a child’s face measurements. Elastic loops instead of ties work better for small heads.

Creative Ways to Customize Your Fabric Face Mask

The possibilities are endless when it comes to customizing a fabric face mask! Here are some fun and fashionable ideas:

Add Your Own Style with Prints

Use stylish printed quilting cottons to coordinate with your outfit or show off some flair. Florals, geometric patterns and subtle stripes all work nicely.
Contrasting prints on the front and back can make your mask reversible for a versatile two-look option.
For a bold statement, opt for bright, colorful or funkyfabric designs and patterns.

Get Crafty with Embellishments

Sew on buttons, sequins or rhinestones with contrasting thread for some sparkle.
Try appliqué shapes like hearts or stars cut from felt or glitter vinyl.
Add some sheen by gluing light reflective tape along the top seams or ties.
For added texture, glue on bits of lace, ribbons or mesh in funky designs.

Show Your Personality with Fabric Markers

Draw swooping curves, bold stripes or fun scalloped borders with fabric markers.
Get creative with fabric paints in your own original prints or inspired by famous artwork.
Use stencils and stamps to create geometric prints, names, initials or phrases on the front of the mask.
Try tie-dyeing your solid colored mask for a one-of-a-kind marbled effect.

Craft Matching Masks for the Family

Coordinate with matching prints or colors for a unified family look.
Sew name tags or initials on each family member’s mask to avoid mix-ups.
For kids masks, use their favorite character prints or bright colors to make mask-wearing more fun.

The options for personalization are endless! Enjoy the process of embellishing and customizing your fabric face masks.

Conclusion

Sewing your own fabric face mask with integrated fabric ties is easy, affordable and allows for personalization. Following the step-by-step instructions, you can create washable and reusable masks to help keep yourself and others safe. Experiment with different fabrics, add filter layers for more protection, and explore creative ways to make your mask match your personal style. Worn properly and cared for diligently, fabric face masks are an essential item to have on hand.