Make your own face make with one of these 6 easy DIY options! There are both no sew and sewn mask patterns, masks with filters, kid sized options and even an idea for making a face mask with items you probably already have in your house!
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With the CDC now recommending that everyone wear a face mask when they are out in public, lots of us are scrambling to figure out ways to make some masks for ourselves and our loved ones!
I was looking for simple options and thought what I found might be helpful for you too!
Keep in mind that these masks are not recommended for a medical setting, but are helpful if you want to follow the CDC’s recommendation to “cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around others”.
DIY Face Mask Filter Options
Also, you’ll notice that many of the face masks have an option to add a filter. Carbon filters like this are great options if you can find ones that ship quickly.
This study by Cambridge University found that vacuum bags were 94.35% effective at blocking particles when used in homemade masks. The biggest concern with these is that some bags may be difficult to breathe through so keep that in mind!
Prefer buying masks, instead?
I’m all for DIYing products, but sometimes it’s just easier and makes more sense to let someone else do the work for you!
If you look over the patterns below and decide that making your own isn’t the best option for you and you prefer to buy homemade masks instead, I recommend checking out Etsy.
Etsy has hundreds of homemade masks that you can purchase. There are options with filters, kid sized options, and every kind of style that you can image.
Check out Etsy’s Homemade Mask options here.
Homemade Face Mask Pattern Ideas
1. Simple No Sew Mask via The Art of Doing Stuff
This easy mask is made using elastic bands (ex.- hair ties or rubber bands) and a cloth napkin, handkerchief or 16 x 16 in. cloth.
While this mask will not give you the absolute best protection, the fact that it is easy and can be made with materials you likely have on hand is a big plus!
2. No Sew Face Mask from a Tshirt via Jennifer Maker
If you aren’t able to sew, this is another simple option. It has a double layer as per CDC recommendations and includes a free printable pattern in various sizes.
3. DIY No Sew Mask Similar to N95 via Repurpose and Upcycle
Obviously, this is not going to be nearly as effective as an actual N95 mask, but it does include a filter and the design was made to mimic it as closely as possible.
And the fact that it is no sew is a big plus if you don’t have access to a sewing machine or don’t know how to sew.
Instead of using an AC filter as suggested in the instructions, I’d recommend using a HEPA vacuum bag since they’re cheaper and easier to source.
4. No Elastic Face Mask via The Girl Inspired
This sewn mask is a great option if you are struggling to find elastic or just find elastic uncomfortable. It also is nice because the tie feature allows the mask to better fit any head size.
And if you prefer a mask with a filter, this design has a pocket that you can easily tuck a filter in.
5. Cricut Face Mask via Jennifer Maker
Adjustable ties, a nose guard and filter pocket make this one a popular option! And while a Cricut makes cutting out this sewn mask pattern super easy, a simple pair of scissors will do the job as well!
6. Olson Face Mask via Sew Can She
This sewn mask uses the Olson mask pattern that has been recommended by professionals. If you have children, you’ll appreciate the child sized pattern that is shared here.
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Sandra
I, too, have been a bit overwhelmed by all the mask ideas and patterns that I’ve run into. I finally made Jennifer Maker’s mask and it was easy and did the trick. The directions are wordy but do-able. And the pleated rectangle with elastic or ties (which ever you end up doing) and pretty easy to make. Yes, thanks for the ideas.
Lydia Beiler
So glad that you were able to find a mask that worked well! I hope you continue to stay safe and healthy!
CheriS
Thank you for doing the “legwork” to gather some reasonable mask options. I’ve been down so many rabbit holes looking for an easy to sew mask that I haven’t actually made any yet. You found some good ones – i’m going to try three and see how the family likes them.
Lydia Beiler
I hear you on going on rabbit holes, Cheri! There are quite a few options out there and it can easily feel overwhelming. So glad this could help! I hope you can find a face mask that works well for your family!