DIY Surgical Face Mask Free Pattern

Follow my face mask free pattern and learn how to sew a face mask for your personal use! My detailed step by step tutorial will teach you how to sew a face mask with filter pocket and nose wire!

 

With the whole world being in a time of distress about the coronavirus spreading I thought it would be a good idea to learn how to sew a surgical face mask. Also, it will make my kids and myself productive since we are practicing self-quarantine in hopes of not getting the virus. Secondly, my Surgical Cap And Mask Pretend Play Free Pattern post, recently was getting many page views, so I thought I will design a face mask free pattern to use in real life.

Some people debate that these masks are a preventative step in not catching this disease. Others say that these masks are only good for stopping the spread of this disease, as they catch water particles coming out of a sick person’s mouth when that person coughs. It is for you to decide what side you are on.

I shared my, DIY surgical face mask free pattern with a filter pocket tutorial with my long time nurse friend and asked for her opinion. Her response was that more layers in the mask, the better it works. Also, since the mask it’s made out of fabric it needs to be washed in a hot water cycle after each use. It is my personal belief that it is better to have something versus nothing when going to public places during these times. It may not be as good as an N95 mask but at least it offers some protection.

Shortly after I posted the DIY surgical face mask tutorial, I got requests from my readers to design a scrub cap pattern. It makes me very happy and thankful that so many people are helping to restock the inventory for hospitals. So, here it is, my detailed step by step tutorial and free template for a DIY surgical cap.

Learn how to sew scrub cap using my surgical cap sewing pattern! My pdf scrub cap pattern is free to download!

 

 

Also, for those of you that don’t sew, I designed a no-sew face mask. And, both of my DIY face masks free patterns are made following CDC guidelines and recommendations.

 Diy cloth no-sew face mask! No-sew face mask double layered is super easy to make using t-shirt! Learn how to make a no-sew face mask with at home materials!

 

 

Let’s get ready to sew a face mask with a filter pocket!

So, I designed this DIY surgical mask free pattern to have the ability to add more layers and make it more effective. You will need about ¼ of a yard of quilting fabric or pre-cut fat quarters would work perfectly for this project. Also, you can use this same fabric print for both sides of the mask or different prints for fun. This post contains some affiliate links for your convenience (which means if you make a purchase after clicking a link, I will earn a small commission but it won’t cost you a penny more)!

The opening on top of the mask is to slip in some tissue paper in, to make more layers, and also, you can sprinkle the tissue with some of your favorite essential oil. I think doing so, makes the outing in the mask more enjoyable while sniffing in your favorite scent. CDC guidelines state that you can use coffee filters as an additional layer in your hand made face mask.  

Free tutorial on how to diy surgical mask with tissue filter pocket

 

 

While going through the DIY surgical face mask free pattern tutorial you will find a step where I used pipe cleaners. I think it’s a great idea to make the top of the mask fit to your face.

All of the materials for the DIY surgical face mask you are able to buy at your local Joann Fabrics or Hobby Lobby. I made a list to buy everything online if you chose to order online without leaving your home.

And, always wash and dry fabric ahead of time to pre-shrink it.

What You need to sew a face mask with filter pocket

 

 

If you will be steam sterilizing the mask it would be better to use gauge or floral wire for the nose clip. The pipe cleaner fibers may melt in high heat.

 

Are you ready to learn how to DIY a surgical face mask with a filter pocket?

Step 1. Cut two 8×12” rectangles out of the cotton fabric and for child-size face mask cut two 6.5×10.5” rectangles.

 

 

Step 2. Have one long edge of each piece fold ¾” to the wrong side and stitch using a zig-zag stitch. Doing so, you make casings to slip in pipe cleaners in later.

 

 

Step 3. Now, pin those two pieces right side together and stitch the other long edges together.

 

 

Step 4. Iron the seam flat to one side, pin the casing edges together, and iron the seam flat from the right side.

 

 

 

Step 5. Stitch very close to the edge on the casing long side, about 3.5” from both sides.

 

 

Step 6. Take two pipe cleaners, bend and then twist both edges to the size of 8”. And for a child size mask make the pipe cleaners 6” long.

 

 

Step 7. Slip in the pipe cleaners to each casing and finish the short edges using a zig-zag stitch.

 

Step 8. Fold the short edges 3/4” to one side and stitch, doing so you made these casings to slip the elastic in. For adult size mask you need 24-26” long elastic and for a child-size mask 16-18”.

Use a safety pin to slip in the elastic into the short edge casings and then tie a knot with the elastic. You can also shift the knot to one of the casings making it invisible.

diy surgical mask with tissue filter pocket free pattern

 

OR

Step 9. Cut two 8” long, 1/8” wide elastic and slip each through side casings. Tie the end of elastics together and shift the knots inside the casings. Now, you have a DIY surgical mask with elastic loops that you wear over your ears. For kids size DIY surgical mask cut two 6.5” long, 1/8” wide elastic.

Now,  make a stitch on both sides of the mask to keep it in place on the elastic. And, that way the fabric won’t shift while wearing the face mask.

 

And, done!

My son Daniel is modeling for me today. You see the two ways that you can make and wear the face mask.

Follow my free face mask sewing pattern and learn how to sew a face mask with filter pocket and nose wire!

 

Learn how to sew a surgical face mask with filter pocket! Follow my tutorial on how to sew a face mask with filter pocket!

 

 

I hope you will find my DIY surgical face mask free pattern useful and easy to follow. You are welcome to post a picture of your face mask on my Facebook page and also on Twitter.

Happy Sewing!

Love,

Agnes

 

 

Want To Remember This? Save The DIY surgical Mask with Tissue Filter Pocket free pattern To Your Favorite Pinterest Board!

 

Learn how to sew a surgical face mask with filter pocket and nose wire!

 

Free detailed step by step tutorial on how to sew a surgical face mask with filter pocket!

 

Learn how to sew face mask with filter pocket and nose wire! Free tutorial and free pattern on how to sew a surgical face mask is included!

Learn how to sew a surgical face mask with filter pocket and nose wire! Follow my face mask free pattern and learn how to sew a cloth face mask!

86 thoughts on “DIY Surgical Face Mask Free Pattern”

  1. Love this patter, its so easy.
    Can the masks made with pipe cleaners be washed in a machine. Plus can they be dried in a tumble.

    Reply
  2. There are so many comments I may have missed the answer to my question. What’s the best way to wash the mask? With the wire in it and the elastic exposed I want to wash it properly so it lasts. Thanks for posting these directions!!

    Reply
  3. THANKS so much for sharing. One question – for over the head, how is the long elastic inserted? Can’t seem to figure it out

    Reply
      • You wouldn’t want it reversible. Public germs would be next to your skin. Your germs would be exposed to the public. Sara RN

        Reply
        • Sara, I was thinking once it was washed/disinfected & I had different patterns on each side allowing the person to choose which pattern/side they would like to wear. Especially kids…i. e. stars on one side super hero’s on another Or solid on one side pattern on the other for adults. They could only change sides after it being washed, not while wearing it. I’m assuming that would be ok.

          Reply
  4. Thank you for this pattern. I have made a similar pattern that you use Paracord with a loop on bottom for neckline and then tie at back of head. I love your elastic around the head better! Now to find elastic in my stash as it is not available in stores.

    Reply
  5. Hi, I would not use a tissue as a filter it gives no protection! The best thing to use is the blue shop towels. they are ”hydrophobic”, which means they don’t absorb water or virus! Cut them to fit your pocket and use two layers. My son has a masters and works in this field. Google it if you like!

    Reply
    • I’m using umbrella fabric as the middle layer, between 100% high quality cotton. A Dr from China recommended umbrellas!

      Reply
    • Gaile,
      Thanks for your comment/suggestion.
      I was planning to contact 3M tomorrow to inquire about the components of the “blue shop towels” since I saw an article recommending them as face mask filters due to their good filtering ability, but I can’t imagine that towels used for workshop or car cleaning would also be “pure” enough to be breathing through. Can your son give any info regarding that?
      They are certainly cost friendly. Thank you for your further input.

      Reply
  6. Is it possible to use old jeans for the material since it is a heavy type of material? I have a lot of those and was going to make a quilt but could use it for this. Just if you think it will work. Thank you so much for the pattern and instructions.

    Reply
  7. Thank you so much for this pattern. I am a RN on our hospital’s Covid unit and I now have to wear a cloth mask all the time at work when I’m not wearing my other PPE with patients. I am also hard of hearing and wear hearing aids, so having a mask where the straps go around the head and not the ears is so much better for me. I appreciate you taking the time to do this. Hope you and yours are hanging in there. Be well!

    Reply
  8. It’s probably just me but I am confused at step #7 and #8, I sewed 3 1/2″ and inserted wire and the part about zig zag the short ends…..what keeps the wire in place? Love this pattern…..sewing away till I get to this step….lol

    Reply
    • Carol, so you slip in the wire (pipes) to the casings and you zig zag the short (mask’s two sides) edges of the mask so the fabric won’t frey. And then the just zig zaged side- short edges fold to one side of the mask and that way you make casings for the elastics. After you make those casing there is just the room for the pipes and keeps it in place. I hope i didnt confuse you more and let me know if you have more questions.

      Reply
  9. Hi,
    First off thanks for the info on making the mask. I used unscented dryer sheets in layers (2 folded in half works well) for filters, also found that a Viva Paper towel works well as a filter, make sure you get the one that are similar to shop towel quality. Also, used a Shammy Cloth as padding in between the material for a thicker mask.

    Be well!
    LF

    Reply
    • Julia,
      kleenex kind. Also, i have read lately that you can use an air filter you use for you furnace. You just need to cut the wires to get the filter out and cut it into pieces.

      Reply
      • Thank you for the great instructions, I read them and they are very straightforward and easy.

        I have read though, that you really have to read what the filters are made of. (some can contain fiberglass) just a warning.

        Reply
          • I use felt as a filter. Works great and no thicker than an N95 mask. I have been using this method for a long time because I have BAD allergies to fest cut grass. When my husband is on a wild fire I have to cut the grass. I was having to buy N95 so I wouldn’t get sick from cutting the grass. I tried everything you can think of as a filter and felt works the best.

  10. Thank you for this wonderful step by step tutorial. Much easier for me to follow than a video. Also I love the one over the head (instead of over the ears). Awesome job👍

    Reply
  11. I only have one comment, use any kind of scent isn’t good it’s over powering to smell for long periods of time. I do work in surgery and when I have a case that’s not great smelling I tried to use essential oils and it made my eyes burn to if you use it go light.

    Reply
  12. The photos show Daniel (who is very cute!) wearing 2 different masks. One is shown over the ears; one around the head. There is a measurement of 24 – 26” for elastic, and another for 2 8” pieces. This is confusing. B

    Reply
    • Ann, you can make the mask two ways. using one long elastic and do it over the head or cut two shorter pieces and make it over the ears. Hope than helps.

      Reply
  13. I think i’m missing something. I have followed steps 1-5, and twisted the pipe cleaners, but I don’t have casings. The 2 fabric pieces are sewn together at the bottom, and at the top for 3 1/4” on each side. That doesn’t produce casings. Also, the top fabric pieces measure 12”. Two 8” pieces of pipe cleaners measure 16”. Do they overlap?

    Reply
    • Hello Claudia,
      I know, im working on setting up space and doing videas but still not quite there yet. Thats why im doing detailed tutorials with lots of pictures. If you have any questions, i am here to answer.

      Reply
  14. I want to print this pattern for surgical mask and surgical hat. Can’t seem to do that. Our hospital is asking for people to make these for our hospital. Please help

    Reply

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