My allergies have been incredible this year, and by that I mean that they have been worse than they have ever been. (Please, please, please do not suggest medical advice here. Much appreciated.) I see an allergy specialist who gives me 2 shots, 2-3 times a week to help with my symptoms. They have helped a lot; however, Juniper Ash (Cedar Fever!) here in Austin is 6 times worse than average this year, and boy oh boy, do I feel it. She suggested that I wear a face mask when I go outside to help reduce the amount of pollen that is going into my lungs and sinuses. After going to a few different stores to purchase some, I found that many other Austinites had already bought them out. No worries, right? I know how to sew. I will just make one. When I finished, I had many requests for a tutorial, so here you go:
Materials needed:
- 1 piece of fabric measuring 8” x 14”. Until you get familiar with this tutorial, I would suggest a non-directional print. One that has a scattered image printed on the surface such as the one shown.
- 2 strips of fabric measuring 1.75” (1 3/4”) x 6”. This will be the accent edge piece. It can be the same fabric as the main piece or a small-scale print or solid.
- Two pieces of 1/4” width elastic. These will be about 6 1/2” long.
- Ruler
- Fabric marking tool.
- Pins
- Scissors
- Sewing machine, threaded.
Fold the main piece of fabric in half, right sides together. Sew along the 8 inch width edge, using a 1/4 inch seam allowance.
Turn this tube shape inside out, so that the right side of the fabric is now on the outside. Press this flat, keeping the seam to one end of the flattened tube.
Place the tube of fabric so that the raw edges are on each side and the seam edge is at the bottom. Using a ruler, measure and mark a line 1 1/2 inches from the bottom edge. Make another line 1 inch above this line, or 2 1/2 inches from the seam edge. Don’t use a pencil as you see in the picture, use a fabric pen, or fabric chalk. I used a pencil for illustration purposes.
Fold the seam edge up (or down in this picture, as I turned it upside down…sorry) making the crease on the first line that you just marked. You should have 1 1/2 inch edge here.
Flip the tube piece over. Match the crease edge to the second line that you made earlier. Press. The pleat that you just created will be 1/2 inch deep. Pin the pleat down on each raw edge end.
Now you will mark the lines for the second pleat. Mark a line measuring 1/2” from the top crease of the last pleat, (or 2″ from the bottom seam edge). It was difficult to see the top of the crease in this picture, so look at the finger indicator above.
Now mark another line one inch above the last line that you made (or 3 inches above the seam edge). Using these lines as your guide, repeat the steps that you followed to make the first pleat.
You should now have two pleats, each one being 1/2 inch deep. Repeat the steps you used to make the second pleat, so that you end up with three pleats total. Press.
This is what your main piece should look like at this point.
Using a 1/8” seam allowance, baste stitch the raw edges.
Repeat this step so that both raw edges are basted as shown in the picture above.
Pin one elastic piece to the raw edge, making sure not to twist it before baste stitching it to the edge at both ends. I placed mine 1/8” from the top and bottom edge of the main pleated piece. Baste elastic in place 1/8” inch from raw edge. Repeat, to attach remaining elastic piece to the other raw edge.
Your pleated piece should now resemble the picture above.
Fold each accent strip of fabric lengthwise in half, matching raw edges, as shown in the picture above. Press.
Place the strip on top of the elastic. Make sure the raw edge is facing outward, and the creased edge is facing the main body of the pleated piece. It will be a little longer on the top and bottom and that is okay, as we are going to fold some of that to the back.
Tuck about 1/2” of the top edge to the back as shown in the picture above.
Pin all layers in place.
Trim the other end of the accent strip, so that it is about 1/2” longer than the bottom edge of the main pleated piece.
Fold the bottom edge of the accent fabric strip to the back, just as you did with the top edge.
Pin both ends in place.
Using a 1/4 inch seam allowance, stitch the length of the entire edge, making sure to back stitch at the beginning and end.
Open the the accent fabric strip seam by flipping it outward away from the main pleated piece, then press.
This is what the mask should look like if you flip it over.
fold the ENTIRE accent piece down toward the main pleated piece, encasing the raw seam. You will now see the accent piece on this side, but not at all on the flip side. Press. Pin edge down.
If you are a good sewist, you will change out your presser foot to a straight stitch foot. If you are lazy, like me, you will keep that 1/4″ presser foot on your machine and struggle your way through this next step. 😀 Stitch this accent strip down to the main body of the mask, sewing along the edge, making sure to back stitch at the beginning and end.
This step isn’t necessary. It just gives it a nice finished look, and helps to give that elastic a little extra stability. Stitch down the edge of the mask close to the elastic side.
The front of your mask should now resemble the above picture.
The back of your mask should look like this. Following the previous steps, attach the remaining accent fabric piece to the other end of the mask.
You should now have a reusable, washable mask that measures approximately 4″ x 7″ (unopened).
It took a few hours to put this free tutorial together for you. For this reason, I am greatly appreciative for any mentions that you can give me if you should use this tutorial. If you post a picture on social media, you can use the hashtag: #buttoncountermask. Feel free to share this page, and please tag me in your pictures so that I can see your beautiful creations. Last, I appreciate constructive criticism, so if you notice something that doesn’t look right, or does not make sense, bring it to my attention. I am happy to clarify any steps where you may have questions.
Enjoy!
P.S. Obviously, the elastic length can be adjusted to your facial measurements.
EDIT (March 24 2020): Because this tutorial has recently been used on a large scale, I will be adding a few things here as frequently asked and answered questions, suggestions, and reminders.
- This tutorial was happily shared by me over a year ago. This is not a new tutorial created in light of the current virus pandemic. I am not in charge, nor affiliated with any organization or entity requesting masks to be made. There are multiple organizations that are using this tutorial for their requests. If you have any question regarding what their requirements are, you really, really, really need to ask them. Please understand that I cannot and will not tell you what you should use, or how you should make your mask different from my tutorial.
- Keep in mind also that there are multiple entities that are using this tutorial for their requests. One entity may have completely different requests regarding features than another entity. (for example one organization is requesting a 4 layer mask, while another is fine with the two layer, as their thoughts are that they can be doubled up or used as a cover or liner to another kind of mask.) So, there is no correct or incorrect mask. Who are you making your mask for? Those are the people to whom you direct your questions.
- CHILD OR BABY MASK: After much thought, I have decided that it is in my best interest to NOT supply a mask tutorial for anyone other than an adult. One of my reasons for this is that I feel that a mask could pose as a choking hazard, and I do not want to have any part of that scenario. My suggestion is that you really should ask each individual child’s doctor or provider what their guidelines are, and go from there.
- I will not be held responsible for any mask misuse or malfunction.
- ELASTIC OR TIES? The main reason why my tutorial uses elastic is so I don’t have to tie it behind my head and mess up my hair. That’s it. So, if you are making the tutorial, and you don’t like the elastic, or if the person who you are making your mask for, requests ties; by all means put ties in yours. My pattern is very easily adapted to your preferences. There are organizations specifically asking for elastic, and some that are asking for ties only.
- ELASTIC LENGTH: I have read that a few of you recommend longer elastic; however, mine ended up being slightly loose. Therefore, I will not alter my pattern. I have stated in the tutorial that elastic length will need to vary due to the fact that human heads are not uniform (Thank goodness).
- I don’t have a PDF or printable version of my tutorial. If I decide to do that, I will; but it will be in my own time. I have received many hateful comments (that I deleted) demanding that I provide this. I need to remind those few sour apples that I am under zero obligation to do so. If my absolutely free visual tutorial isn’t to your liking, I invite you to go find one that makes you happy. If you are a person who often finds themselves using the words ”I need you to…”, you might fall into this category.
- I am completely honored that many of you are using my tutorial, or even certain aspects of it to help people in need. Even if you are using a completely different tutorial or pattern and just stopped by to check this one out, I applaud you for being a maker during this time. I cannot express enough how happy it makes me feel to see so many humans getting together to do something for the greater good. Please continue being that human. Those are the best ones.
I am signing off now to take care of my family, who needs me now more than ever. Thank you all for your kindness and understanding. God Bless.
Button Counter 
I want to make this mask. However, I am wondering what I have to add as an extra layer to be usable for the Cov-ID virus protection. I live about 30 miles from the epicenter of the outbreak in WA state.
As indicated, she made this for pollen. Even if she does know (actually, there’s nothing to make this type of mask virus-proof other than wearing it over an N-95 or similar mask), she has no obligation to provide this information. In addition, she could open herself up to liability claims if she did. She would probably prevail in a true lawsuit, especially with her disclaimer, but she might incur legal expenses.
Questions or suggestions via the comment section should be related to the actual instructions for creating the mask; not for its use.
Thanks.for this, oak allergies are CRAZY right now!!!!
Definitely ignore the haters! Honestly. I’m glad you had made the time and effort in the first place. Thank you.
This looks like one of the best tutorials I seen. Thank so much for sharing.
One can find lots of 1/4 inch elastic even colored ones at Etsy. As of March 30th there was tons being sold. Thanks for your easy to follow tutorial.
Thank you so much for this! My mom and I are making masks for my daughter, who is a doctor at the VA hospital in New Orleans, and her co-workers. We will be using fun, funky patterns and colors for those fun-loving folks in New Orleans!
Holy Moly I LOVE this pattern. I left a question about an issue I was having with the elastic and trim piece…. however, had I paid closer attention to your words in ALL CAPS “ENTIRE”… I would have had better luck. This pattern and your instructions (if I had followed it to a “t”) are flawless. THANK YOU SO MUCH!
You aren’t alone, and you may have asked your question before I “fixed” the wording on that step a few days ago. I actually appreciate constructive criticism, so thank you for speaking up. Enjoy!
Thank you so much for this detailed tutorial. I have used it to make 97 masks, so far, for our local hospital workers. The hospital has approved them and workers have been very grateful for the extra protection. I would make more but cant find elastic anywhere!
I have been making ties instead because elastic is disappearing.
Where are he kits to make these as advertised and reported in press release??????
Thank you for this tutorial! It is very detailed and easy to follow. Interesting to me that you posted this well over a year ago… You’re a bit of a prophet, LOL
Anyway I’ve been looking and looking and this tutorial for face masks is one of the I’ve found. THANK YOU! And Stay Safe!
Love this tutorial. Easy to follow and adjust if needed.
Thank you for your time and sharing this tutorial in this time of need!! Humanity needs to care for one another at this time, not demand anything from anyone! If you don’t know how to measure a rectangle of certain proportions it is not this person fault! You may want to go back to elementary school and learn to use a ruler!
How much are you turning the raw seam under and are you doing a finishing stitch to prevent it from fraying before your turn it right side out? I’m sleeping through this step for some reason!
Which step are you referring to?
Thank you for sharing. I am going to make a second layer with a hole to add another lining. HEPA vacuum filters are good if you can find them. Twill tape or ribbon makes good ties. I will just fold the end and glue with fabric glue or sew (with a zigzag stitch).
Someone mentioned to me that pony tail holders will work in the absence of elastic. Thanks for the tutorial.
Thank you so much for doing this!!! Just ignore the people that “demand” you do something. It took you quite a bit of time to put this tutorial together and for that I appreciate your time. Blessings to you and your family.
I am so very sorry that people have been unkind. Please know that the majority of readers are not like that, and we appreciate you for providing this information. I am just getting started on making masks for my area in California, and I love the simplicity of your pattern. Thank you so much for taking the time to put this tutorial together and posting it for all of us to use. Thank you also for the work you do in caring for others. You are one of God’s angels and we are grateful.
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This is a fantastic tutorial! I have already made twenty for my friends and family. The rest will be going to local hospitals and nursing centers. My only limiting factor is elastic. People
love these! Practical and fun. Thanks!
You can make fabric ties instead of using elastic when you run out.
please send me a mask.i have rheumatoid arthritis and I work at Spiro Nursing Home in Spiro Oklahoma.
Elastic option. I have been using swimsuit fabric. I cut the fabric 3/4 inch width and fold it half and sew. Then turn it right side out. They sell a tool for turning small tubing, and it works well for turning the tubing right side out.
Free substitute elastic is available in old T-shirts! Make T-shirt yarn by cutting strips 1 inch wide, then stretching each to make a tube. I cut these 8″ for each ear-loop to make adult-size masks.
I am so very sorry that people are being hateful to you. I will never understand the reasoning behind seeking out a person who has given their personal time and demanded more from them. I have been making your masks and have been using both elastic and ties and I am so grateful to you for putting it out there.
From the multitude of non-hateful people, thank you very much. Don’t let snarky people get you down. You have plenty of others below that are very grateful that you shared your skills with us 😊
How terrible that anyone would complain to you about the wonderful job you did on this tutorial! I haven’t made your face mask yet, but I thought you were very complete in your instructions. Thank you so much for taking the time and patience to do this FREE for all of us who appreciate your efforts. The complainers will always be there, but there are more who will be appreciative of your efforts. God bless you!
Bless you, dear, for this excellent tutorial! Your time in this post is so appreciated! After using another pattern, yours is a much better version that I can’t wait to use😊 Take care during these frightening times and again, Bless You, fellow Texan!
Many thanks for sharing your ideas and skills – it is a fantastic idea…I will be making these face masks to give to some of our elderly family members as I have a collection of cotton material that will be very suitable for a ‘deadly looking’ mask…
Lovely tutorial! It looks pretty simple and straightforward. I just have to go find some material etc. and get my sewing machine up and running again after years untouched! 🙂 Thank you. It’s very timely. God bless.
Thank you. I really appreciate you doing this for us. Your pictures help so much. A lot easier to follow than some others that I have seen.
Keep strong and ignore the idiots out there.
💕🐑🍀
Thank you I was looking for an easy mask tutorial and yours is perfect as I am a visual learner and it is just fine the way it is there will always be haters thanks again Karen in Missouri 😊
Thanks for giving us your time to help us help others. I’m finally going to put the stash of fat quarters to good use, donate the masks to the local surgery and let them distribute them.
For anyone who needs it, there’s a free add-on for Chrome browsers called PrintFriendly, which allows you to take any web page and save/print it in PDF format.
Thank you for this great tutorial!
I Have made 4 masks from another patter – now going to have a go at yours. I found the elastic just around the ears did not work so have been using elastic for all around the head. I may run out of elastic soon. Do not take any notice of those silly people out there with their silly comments. You have done a good job in sharing your pattern with us. God Bless.
Thank you for sharing this
I have made masks for all my friends
For my hospital physician husband and son I added a cloth vacuum cleaner filter . Hope it helps keep them safe. When I’m finished I’ll start making for the hospital
I appreciate all the time you put in to making this available. GREAT tutorial. I was a little confused at how the elastic would be where it was supposed to be on the picture, but I followed your instructions and it came out perfect. Thank you so much!
This is great! Thank you so much for sharing. I’m grateful you are. Now…sew.
I’m isolating due to dodgy health problems. My fabulous husband is doing all the shopping and needs a face mask or two, which I shall sew with all of the love he deserves. Yours is the clearest set of instructions I have found. I’m off to the fabric stash for something pretty and will now have an excuse for a lifetime of saving bits of elastic. I’m very grateful, thank you.
Thank you for this highly detailed and easy to follow set of instructions. At a time when we are all scared and uncertain, I really appreciate that you have provided it for no cost. I hope you and your family remain healthy and safe throughout this very worrisome time. All the best.
Thank you! Thank You! Thank You! I like your tutorial best! Ignore the nasty people. Who cares? Much more to do and be thankful for. Be safe and stay healthy!
Thank you so much for this information. I’ve been making masks for about a week and find making the pleats the hardest thing. I’m going to try your suggestions.
Thank you for sharing this pictorial tutorial. Ignore the idiots. They’re coming out of crevases everywhere.
First, thanks for the great, clear tutorial. Makes life easier when the words and pictures are easy to understand. Second, if you’re on the hunt for elastic, my Walmart has no more, I was wracking my brain to figure out what else I could use. I thought maybe ponytail bands covered with fabric, but then as I was in the hair accessories aisle it hit me. Elastic headbands/headwraps! Third, learn to copy and paste, people. If you need a hard copy of instructions, you can do it yourself, don’t expect someone to do for you what is so easy to do for yourself.
The sewing industry needs to come up with a system that indicates width whatever, length whatever. I look at so many patterns that never indicate which is length and which is width. Fortunately, this pattern is laid out on a grid mat so you could figure it out!
Thank you so much for the wonderful tutorial! I absolutely love it! thanks for all of your hard work!!
Thank you so much for offering this tutorial! I am grateful you shared your wisdom!
Love this and will use it to make more. The end piece to cover elastic is so much neater finish than what I saw in another tut. Thank you Shannon. Haters gonna hate. Pray for them.
Thanks for sharing. My friend and I are going to make some of these. Very good tutorial.
This is exquisite! Thank you for the detailed instructions and very helpful photos. I also celebrate your boundaries (in the 2020 Edit section). Wishing all the best to you and your loved ones!
You did a great job showing us how to make this mask.
Thank you.
Don’t pay any attention to nasty comments.
Wonderful tutorial.This is exactly what I was searching for. Spent all day trying to find this mask. Thank you so much for sharing! I will now be able to make these for our family in these difficult times. Thanks again.
Thank you I just made my first. My daughter is an er nurse in town.
SORRY TO HEAR THERE ARE PEOPLE THAT ARE NUTS FOR SOMETHING LIKE THIS,,I JUST HAPPENED TO COME ACROSS YOUR IDEA FOR 😷 MASKING, MY DAUGHTER AND GRANDDAUGHTER ARE IN THE DENTAL FIELD, ONE OFFICE COMPANY IS SUPPLYING VERY CHEAP GRADE MASKS, TO USE WORKING IN WHO KNOWS WHAT IN MOUTHS..THIS TYPE IS GOOD FOR REGULAR USE , CUTE..STYLISH.. THANK YOU FOR THIS 💡 IDEA.. GOOD LUCK WITH THIS HORRIBLE VIRUS..
PHYLLIS TEDESCO..
You are that great human yourself! God bless you and your family.
Ruby from TX
I am a Respiratory Therapist and I am so appreciative of everyone who is helping with the masks. Whether it be donating time, sewing skills or monetary. We appreciate it more than you know. And thank you to Joanne Fabric for spreading the word and sharing videos to help with this. I’m actually off for a few days so I am also going to try my hand in sewing. Wish me luck. It’s probably better that I stick to caring for the patients. Thank you again ❤️❤️❤️💙💙💙
Thank you , your tutorial was very helpful. Blessings
I have made 4. I just know the basics and the instructions and pictures made it very easy to follow and complete this project.
Thank you so much for the tutorial. I personally have no skill at doing these, but gain enormously from those who can. You should see, hear and receive ONLY praise. So just ignore anyone that thinks they deserve more. This has been your gift to us and I for one am grateful to you. Give all your family a hug from all of us grateful internet cruisers!