How to Make a Protective Mask for Remote Communities

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For a basic cloth mask you will need:

9" x 15" fabric outer layer
9" x 15" fabric lining layer
(3 regular or large size masks of either design, can be made from 1/4 yard (9") of 45” wide fabric)
3” piece of soft wire (this can be decorative wire as shown, or picture wire, or even a paper clip if that's all you can find)
approx. 22” of elastic cord (child size length 10", regular size length 11-12", large size length 13")

WHAT KIND OF FABRIC?
You can choose any tightly woven cotton or cotton/poly fabric you like. Hold it up to the light to see how tight the weave is. Use the same fabric for outer and lining if you want, or use different ones to help you remember which side is clean and which dirty.

The research (see links at the end) shows 100% cotton having some effectiveness. Cotton/polyester blends may have additional properties of repelling water, making them better barriers to keep droplets from soaking through outer layers.

Don't use stretchy, sequined or velvet material.

Wash all fabrics before sewing to pre-shrink, and to assure you are working with the most sanitary materials possible.

There are two common designs for homemade facemasks: a fitted design (as pictured left) and a pleated design. Each design has it's own process, and it's own level of protections. Fitted masks with a filter are regarded as more protective than pleated masks, but are harder to sew for beginners.  

Once you've gotten your materials and decided on your design, you are ready to start the sewing. Here are some tutorials:

Fitted mask tutorial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PQfeneVomnY&t=40s

Pleated mask tutorial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AhGUBjK10DI&t=335s

Was the masks and materials in warm water with mild detergent to eliminate contaminants that may have been present while you were sewing. Also ensure to sanitize your hands and equipement regularly. 

We love to see your designs! Take a picture of your masks (not on your face of course) and post them with hashtag #FindingOurPowerTogether

Whether you are able to make one mask or a thousand, we are happy to have them! These masks will really help our isolated communities! Get in touch when you are ready to arrange a drop-off or pick-up!