Learn How to Make a Face Mask in Just 5 Simple Steps

Sara SJ Kim
by Sara SJ Kim
11 Materials


Social distancing and wearing face masks is the new social norm that looks like it’s going to stay in the near future. So, why not make it fun and add your own stamp of uniqueness? I’m going to guide you on making a face mask from scratch with a replaceable filter. The pattern is also free, and you can get it in the tools and materials section listed above. This is an easy face mask tutorial that you can make for the whole family or, better yet, donate a bunch to our brave health care workers. Grab some fabric, and let’s jump right into it.

Tools and materials:

  • Pattern- Download the free pattern here
  • Fabric- Linen, lightweight cotton is best
  • Elastic cord
  • Produce twist ties
  • Scissors
  • Sewing machine
  • Paper
  • Marker
  • Pins
  • Clips
  • Filter
Easy DIY face mask

Start cutting the pattern and fabric

Print the pattern and cut it. Next, layer your fabric by folding it in half; this way, you will have two symmetrical pieces. Place the pattern on top and cut around the edges.

DIY face mask

Next, fold the pattern in half from the other side and cut an additional two fabric pieces. You can see how I did this from 2:30 minutes in my tutorial video. You are going to need 4 pieces, two with different curved sides; corresponding to the top and bottom.

Easy face mask

Sew the paired pieces

You should now have 6 fabric pieces. Pair them up and sew the curved edges, right sides facing.

Sew a face mask

Clip the fabric pieces on the curved seam to make nice curves.

Make a face mask

Double fold the center seams of the top and bottom lining and give it a good press. After pressing the fold, edgestitch the folded edge.

How to sew a face mask

Assemble the mask

Pin the top edges of the main fabric and the top fabric, right sides facing.

Face mask tutorial

Next, pin the bottom edge of the main fabric piece to the bottom lining, right sides together.

Sew the edges

Now, sew the top and bottom edges.

Make sure the lining overlaps

Ensure that both the lining pieces should overlap at both ends.

Pin the sides

Pin the sides, making sure the lining of both the lining pieces touch. Sew a straight line across both ends.

Press the mask

Turn the mask inside out and press.

Add the produce twist ties

Add the nose tie

I used two produce twist ties for the nose tie. Two ties will give the mask a tighter fit, and I highly recommend you do the same. Fold the ties in half together and twist the top.

Draw a casing

Insert the produce ties on the upper edge of the top part of the mask, between the main fabric piece and the lining. Then, pin in place, and with a fabric marker, mark around the produce ties.

Topstitch around the nose tie

Then, topstitch around the top edge and the casing you just marked. Also, topstitch around the bottom edge.

Cut elastics to size

Add the elastic

I used a round cord elastic but, feel free to use any elastic you want. As long as it does the job, it doesn’t really matter what type. Cut the elastic anywhere between 10-12 inches, depending on the size of your head. Cut two pieces to size.

Fold the edges

Tie the ends together with a little knot on each end and a big loop on the other.

Now add the looped side ( not the knotted side) on the edge of the mask. Fold the edge on top of the elastic so that you create a small casing. Pin in place and sew both sides.

Sew the edges

You can hide the knotted ends inside the casing by gently rolling it around.

Add the filter

Lastly, add the filter piece between the two linings. I used N95 mask filters and you can find them easily. I found mine on Amazon.

Lovely DIY face mask

Your face mask is complete. How lovely and elegant does this look? It’s also comfy and fashionable. As you can see, I even made one for my partner! What more can one ask for? Keeping safe while still looking stylish is an easy feat, thanks to this quick and easy tutorial. I hope you enjoyed this and that you stay safe out there!

Suggested materials:
  • Pattern   (https://sewingtherapy.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/MASK-PATTERN-02.p)
  • Fabric
  • Elastic cord
See all materials

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