How to Make Your Own Cotton Face Mask
All over the country, many state and local governments are requesting that people wear masks in public; between the chance of spreading respiratory illnesses and the desire to avoid increasing levels of air pollution, wearing a mask or other face covering is. The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that all people wear a wearing of a cloth face mask in public.
Wearing a mask is essential for two reasons:
• If you have a respiratory illness, wearing a mask may reduce your chance of spreading the illness to others.
• Wearing a mask may protect you if you encounter someone with a respiratory illness.
Wearing a face mask is an easy way to keep yourself a bit safer.
Commercial or DIY?
However, many retail outlets need more supply. The masks they do have need more style. Fortunately, it's pretty easy to make a mask yourself. Depending on your skill level and the available materials, there are many ways to make a DIY face mask. Here are three easy ways to make a homemade face mask. Just so you know, if you choose to make any of these masks, wash them regularly.
No-Sew Cotton Face Mask
This mask is the easiest to make, but it may offer less protection than other designs.
Materials: T-Shirt, Rubber Bands
1. Cut a six to eight-inch strip of material from the bottom of a T-shirt.
2. Fold the fabric in half.
3. Tie the ends of the fabric and secure them with rubber bands.
Bandana and Coffee Filter
Adding a coffee filter between layers of fabric can make a mask more effective. Could you be sure to change the filter regularly?
Materials: Bandana, Coffee Filter, Rubber Bands
1. Fold the bandana in half, corner to corner.
2. Cut the filter and a half and lay it on the bandanna.
3. Fold the bandanna for the filter between layers of fabric.
4. Tie the corners of the bandanna and secure it with rubber bands.
Sewn Mask
You can make this simple mask if you have a sewing machine and basic skills. You may find that this design is more comfortable.
Materials: Cotton Fabric, Elastic Bands
1. Cut two rectangles of fabric in whatever size works for your face.
2. Stack the layers of fabric on top of each other; sew around the edges.
3. Fold over the top and bottom to make pockets for the elastic. Add stitching to secure them.
You can add pleating or other details to make a mask more comfortable.
The CDC and other authorities suggest that everyone wear a mask in public. Social distancing and wearing a mask is the best way to protect yourself.
Can You Make a Face Mask Out of Cotton?
Yes, making a face mask out of cotton fabric is possible. Cotton is a good choice for face masks because it is a natural, breathable, and comfortable material.
To make a face mask out of cotton, you will need:
A piece of cotton fabric, approximately 16x9 inches
Two pieces of elastic, each about 7 inches long
Scissors
A needle and thread or a sewing machine
Instructions:
- Cut the cotton fabric into a rectangle that is approximately 16x9 inches.
- Fold the fabric in half lengthwise, with the right sides facing each other.
- Sew along the top and bottom edges of the fabric, using a ½ inch seam allowance. Leave a small opening at one end for turning.
- Turn the fabric right side out through the opening.
- Fold the edges of the opening inward and sew them closed.
- Cut the elastic into two 7-inch pieces.
- Tie one piece of elastic to each end of the mask, making sure to tie them securely.
Your cotton face mask is now ready to wear! Be sure to wash it after each use.
Note: It is important to remember that homemade face masks are not substitutes for N95 respirators or other medical-grade personal protective equipment. They are intended to help slow the spread of the virus and should be used in conjunction with other preventive measures, such as washing your hands frequently and maintaining social distancing.