Directions to sew a fabric mask

Make a Fabric Mask!

Hello sewists! I'd like to meet each of you, get to know you and answer any questions. Right now, though, time is of the essence to sew as many masks as possible to meet the needs of the medical community, immune suppressed people, facilities (like nursing homes or group homes) with no supply of masks, shelters, the elderly, and others at risk. Here are some directions and how we will receive masks you make and provide a little fabric.

Here is directions to make 3 styles of fabric masks. 

#1: This one is an easy mask pattern that you can  make that has a pocket filter and uses elastic for the ears. Simple mask with elastic.  

#2: This one is an easy pattern made with fabric ties. If you have been sewing and not have able to find elastic, this is a great option with ties. I like this this tutorial simple mask because 1) it's easy 2) there are less seams to sew 3) the best pocket for a filter in a simple mask 4) and you can still add wire over the nose area for a snug fit. Make simple mask with ties and pocket for a filter.

#2: This is the Olson mask that a lot of hospitals have requested. It is more fitted and has an excellent pocket for filter for medical professionals. It takes more time and I recommend it to experienced sewers. Pattern for Olson mask.

How do I get the masks to you? We will be at the Rock Church Friday mornings from 9-11am.  You may drop off your masks or pick up fabric. You may donate cash or fabric as well during that time. Rock Church: 2277 Rosecrans, San Diego, CA 92106.

FAQs:

I don't have fabric: If you do not have fabric we are able to provide "some". To obtain fabric you must email me in advance so I will have an idea of how much to provide. Send me your name and that you need fabric. See link below to pick up. 

I am staying indoors only:  Please email if you are unable to come out of your home due to age or safety. We occasionally have a volunteer to do deliveries/pick up. 

Can I get elastic? Rarely to occasionally yes. It takes weeks to get delivered and it's gone quickly. There's directions on how to make ties on the second tutorial above. It's much less expensive than bias tape. *Ties will hold up much better with repeated washings in hot water than elastic will. It takes a little more time but lasts longer. Some ladies are purchasing large elastic hair ties to use or using thin stretchy hair bands, or making ties from t-shirt material (which is stretchy and does not need to be hemmed!).

A wire across the nose? The wire across the nose I referred to: You can use pipe cleaners, jewelry making wire, bread or other bag twist ties. I have a limited amount on hand.

Have an extra sewing machine or need a sewing machine: Would love to connect the sewing machine with a volunteer who does not have one!

Mask drop off will be at the Rock Church San Diego on Rosecrans St. on Fridays from 9-11am, until further notice.

I (Joyce) am here to help you, encourage you, answer your questions, and help how I can. However I'm a full time nurse and some days off the radar because I work 12 hr shifts. And I get a lot of requests and fulfill orders. So please explore the tutorials first for your questions. 

Donations of fabric or cash for fabric is appriciated. If you have friends or family that want to donate cotton fabric (or cotton poly blend) it can be dropped off at the same location-Rock Church on Friday mornings.

Click here to donate.

May God bless you and keep you and protect you during this time. Thank you for deciding to volunteer with Medical Outreach to provide masks. What an ideal way to love our neighbor as ourselves.