25+ Patterns for Face Masks
This collection includes several options for DIY face masks. Find a face mask sewing pattern to make to help with a pandemic or flu season.
If you've been on the hunt for a homemade face mask sewing pattern, then take a look at this collection of 25+ Patterns for Face Masks. We've compiled all the best tutorials and patterns for DIY face masks around so that you don't have to keep searching.
Find basic masks, masks with filter pockets, expandable masks, fashionable and stylish face masks, and even no-sew masks for folks who aren't ready to learn a new skill right now. There's also an article explaining which
are the best fabrics for face masks.
Beyond masks, we also have some bonus related projects! Make a headband with buttons to secure your mask without hurting your ears. We also have alternative face coverings that you can sew instead of masks.
Even if you're not looking to sew a mask during this pandemic, these are ideal as DIY dust masks or to wear during cold and flu season, especially for those who are vulnerable.
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Editorial Notes: In settings where professional/medical-grade face masks are not available, the general public is encouraged to wear face coverings: "The CDC recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (e.g., grocery stores and pharmacies) especially in areas of significant community-based transmission."
Homemade masks should ideally be used in combination with a face shield that covers the entire front (that extends to the chin or below) and sides of the face.
Below, we're sharing a few printable charts from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, so be sure to take a look at those.
PS: Are you a sewing novice? Check out these tips below to find the best sewing machine for you!
Table of Contents
LEARN MORE ABOUT MASKS:
This guide will also teach you all about masks, where to donate, and what precautions are needed when wearing handmade masks.
Learn more here >>> DIY Face Mask Information
This guide will explain which fabrics are the best to use for handmade masks.
Learn more here >>> Best Fabrics for Face Masks
This guide offers free printable templates for the best-fitting masks, along with tips for making masks.
Learn more here >>> Free Face Mask Template PDFs
This guide will explain everything you need to know about filters, including what to use in your DIY mask.
Learn more here >>> What Type of Filter Should I Use in a Face Mask?
This guide will explain the different ways to properly wash handmade masks.
Learn more here >>> How to Wash a Fabric Face Mask
Read about COVID-19 and the latest guidelines from the CDC here.
CDC: Face Covering Do's and Don'ts PDF
The CDC has provided this free downloadable chart of the basic "Do's" and "Don'ts" for face coverings.
It's important to follow the government recommendations in order to protect yourself and others the best you can during a pandemic.
Click here to download this CDC PDF
This collection includes masks that are available in multiple sizes or specifically for children. The majority of these children's face masks are easy, fast, stylish, and (most importantly) comfortable for KIDS.
Find it here >>13+ DIY Face Masks for Kids
Free Face Mask Patterns
Below, you will find a wide variety of DIY face masks. These fabric masks range in skill level, material type, and additional elements. When sewing a face mask, you'll want to keep in mind that the stronger the fabric, the better.
Some of these even have pockets for filters, which is important in protecting yourself better. We are even featuring a bonus guide on choosing materials and a no-sew mask (check the last two links in this section).
From the designer: "Here is the tutorial: Cut 2 pieces of main fabric and two pieces of fusible interfacing to the table Add the fusible interfacing to the mask by ironing the interfacing on a mild temperature..."
From the designer: "Here is child-size face mask pattern in multiple size options for different ages. Use this pattern to make masks for your friends and family using their kid's favorite colors or character print."
Stylish Face Masks (Free Face Mask Patterns)
From the designer: "Learn how to make a DIY mask with this easy tutorial. Here I will show you how to make 2 styles of face mask with numerous variations including filter pocket or no filter pocket and different strap options."
From the designer: "Learn how to sew a face mask with this easy to follow picture tutorial. Mix and match with your favorite fabrics to create a stylish yet functional protection piece. Takes about 20 minutes to make."
Flannel Fabric Face Mask Tutorial
From the designer: "Family and friends asked if I could create a warmer mask for winter. I took up the challenge and used one of my favorite fabrics, flannel, to create the softest, warmest, and most protective masks yet. Make sure you use cotton!"
From the designer: "Nothing brightens my mood more than vibrant flowers. As a sewist, I am especially excited to see flower print fabric because that means I can use it for my next project. That's exactly what I did with this lovely floral mask."
DIY Ugly Christmas Face Masks [Printable Templates]
From the designer: "When it comes to Christmas-themed masks, there aren't many. That's why this one is so great. To lighten things up, we thought of this creative idea. One look at this "ugly" Christmas face mask, and we guarantee you'll chuckle."
White Sparkles Holiday Face Mask DIY
From the designer: "Face masks can be beautiful and embellished for the holidays with bling, beads, rhinestones, ribbon, and bows! There are many creative ways to have your face masks look exquisite and unique. Using your imagination, face masks will become your own style."
How To Sew A Face Mask With Filter Insert Pocket
From the designer: "Here's a simple guide how to make a DIY face mask with a pocket for filter insert. Impeccable hygiene is key, wearing a mask is secondary. However, for those of you who want to make a face mask, here is my DIY Face Mask tutorial."
Reusable Do It Yourself Face Mask
From the designer: "Our design is washable and thus reusable plus it is comfortable and fits snugly along the face covering both your nose and mouth. N-95 masks should be reserved for health care and first response personnel so they can safely help their communities."
Super Simple Face Mask Pattern
From the designer: "With this super simple face mask you can help protect yourself and those you care about. These self-made masks will not filter out the virus from the air. But it will stop you from touching your face and transporting the virus to your mouth, eyes, or nose where you can be infected. Additionally, it will help keep infectious droplets if you cough, sneeze, or talk, away from others."
How To Sew A Mask Without Elastic
From the designer: "DIY Face mask made entirely from fabric. Features adjustable ties, filter pocket and an optional flexible nose piece. Elastic has been in short supply lately, and while there are some alternatives you can use, I thought it would be great to show you how to make a mask without elastic."
From the designer: "This face mask tutorial includes a PDF file that you can print and cut easily. Instead of using elastic, these face masks have bias tape ties - though you could use ribbon as well. They are very easy to sew and require very little sewing skills and ability."
How To Make A DIY Face Mask At Home
From the designer: "This face mask tutorial is made due to a shortage of face masks at present. The face masks are temporary ones which are made with raw materials now available in the market and by modeling the design and the principle of 3M masks. The cost is low, and it is easy to learn and make."
Diy Face Masks In 3 Sizes To Snuggly Fit The Whole Family
From the designer: "Due to popular request, we have added two new sizes of our snag fitting face mask pattern. The child size pattern is for preschool aged children and the small size is for kids in between. All 3 designs contain our updated written directions which include the option of adding a wire such as a paper clip along the nose area for a better fit."
DIY Face Mask Using a Sock (No-Sew)
From the designer: "Need a quick fabric mask but don't have the needed supplies? With this DIY Face Mask Using a Sock, all you need is a clean sock and scissors. This no-sew mask is so easy that anyone can do it. This tutorial has step-out instructions and images to show you exactly how it's done. There are even tips on adding extra fabric layers and washing your mask."
Simple Face Mask With Visor Free Sewing Pattern And Tutorial
From the designer: "This mask has a visor that acts as a shield, stopping your hands from reaching your eyes, or in case someone is close to you, reducing the number of droplets that get in your eyes and mucus membrane. I have eliminated the need for using elastic by using bias tape instead."
From the designer: "This is a new quick design for yet another mask that's easy, comfortable, faster and cheaper to make. It's worn on the ears without buying elastic or acquiring Tshirts to make yarn. It fits as tight as needed and does not slip off by using the slip knot to adjust quickly."
From the designer: "Learn how to make 3d face mask at home quickly and easily with the help of this video. This DIY 3D face mask is much more comfortable than the regular mask, making it ideal for situations where you must wear a mask for prolonged periods of time."
Diy Breathable Face Mask Tutorial
From the designer: "Although they are certainly not the accessories we planned or expected on wearing this summer, this is the reality we have to accept and we’ll likely be rocking face masks during the hot summer days. I came up with the solution that will hopefully help us breathe a bit more easily."
From the designer: "Make your own face mask for personal use with a scrap of fabric and an old t-shirt. These face masks do NOT use elastic. Elastic can be irritating on your ears, so I figured out how to use pieces of an old shirt. These masks are easy to make with just 5 straight seams."
From the designer: "I know there are other patterns out there but this one eliminates two problems I hear sewists complain about – raw edges on the inside, and trying to have the vinyl against the foot or the feed dogs and it not feeding properly."
How To Sew Face Mask For Hospitals
From the designer: "These masks are easy to make, and the pattern I will share is great for pros and beginners. Learn how to sew a super simple surgical face mask from fabric with this easy step by step tutorial! The instructions are simple."
From the designer: "Face masks are still a must and might be until a vaccine is available on the market, so we need to have several ready and on hand! For those of you who like to be 100% fancy while still protected, I’m going to show you the easy way of making a triple-layer cotton face mask with filter pocket using a simple and easy fitted face mask pattern."
How To Make A No-Sew Face Mask Using T-Shirt
From the designer: "No-sew face mask is super easy to make and it follows the CDC guidelines and recommendations. I designed the face mask that you can wear in two ways. One way requires two thin hair bands that you put on pleated sides of the mask. And the other way is just twisting the mask right by the openings and put them over your ear lobes."
How to Make a Christmas Fabric Face Mask [Printable Templates]
From the designer: "This face mask tutorial walks you through using your favorite Christmas fabric to make a comfy mask that will cover your nose and mouth, and help keep your face warm when you are outside. If you're used to covering your face with scarves or other fabric coverings, then you'll love wearing this mask."
Comfiest Child Size Face Mask Tutorial
From the designer: "I've been working to find the most comfortable masks for myself, family, friends, and children in my life and for charity and I've developed one of the comfiest child size face masks that can be sewn or bought. I'm sharing all the details about why this combination makes for the best face masks for kids."
DIY Black Cat Face Mask [Printable Templates]
From the designer: "How do you celebrate Halloween in a way that's still safe in the time of COVID-19? Combine your Halloween mask with your COVID mask, that's how. Our exclusive tutorial will show you how to make this cat face mask that not only looks cute but will cover your nose and mouth to help protect from germs and debris in the air."
Halloween 3d Face Mask Pattern
From the designer: "Get ready for Halloween and turn the need for a protective face mask into art with this fun Halloween 3D face mask pattern! Embroidered with a Skellington smile, roomy and comfortable to wear, this 3D face mask is a must this Halloween season! This Halloween fabric face mask is quite fun and sits well over your nose so your glasses won’t fog if you wear any."
Looking for more festive masks? Check out this page of the best Halloween masks you'll find:5 Fun DIY Halloween Face Masks to Sew
Headband Patterns for Attaching Masks
Headbands are a great alternative to attaching a face mask around your ears. This is especially helpful for those in the medical field who wear masks all day and need some relief from the constant pulling on their ears.
Headbands and other hair accessories like it also help to keep the hair out of your face, which helps you to keep from touching your face. It can prevent irritation or infection from the mask elastic or ties. Plus, they provide a stylish look to boot.
The Headband Pattern from shown here from Easy Peasy Creative gives you a visual on how to do it and provides tips and a tutorial on getting the buttons right.
Get this Headband Pattern!
Since you can use any headband pattern with some strongly-sewn buttons on either side, we're providing a few more headband designs below. Take your pick and get sewing.
Headband for the Beginner Seamstress
This sewing project for beginners provides a set of instructions for those who aren't used to the technique so that you can perfect your headband quickly.
Thick headbands are an amazing way to keep your hair in check. Created out of any stretch fabric you would like, this DIY hair accessory is a great way to add some colorful flair to your wardrobe.
Turban Headband Tutorial & Pattern (Nb-Adult)
For this turban, you'll need some stretch knit fabrics, a sewing machine, a pair of scissors and a measuring tape.
If you have fifteen minutes and have no idea what to do with your hair for the day, this DIY T-Shirt Headband will save the day!
BONUS! Here is a tutorial for creating very easy and quick DIY ear savers two ways. Medical workers will be excited about the huge ear pain relief! These DIY ear savers only take minutes to make and use up any small fabric scraps you have on hand.
Get more headband, along with hat projects, in our collection of vintage-style designs. Find it here:23 Vintage Hat Sewing Patterns (+ Headbands and Veils)
BONUS! DIY Face Covering Options
Not into the DIY masks or want to get creative? There are plenty of ways to keep your face covered with other items you have in your home or can sew in minutes. Of course, as mentioned above, it's important to remember that none of these options will prevent you from spreading or getting viruses.
However, we wanted to provide as many patterns and tutorials as possible to help you stay more protected than you would be without anything. Take a look at the projects below and learn how to make a face cover or see what works with what you have in your home or are up for making in your downtime.
A scarf can quickly transition to a face covering. This is a simple scarf that can be made in minutes using any fabric on hand.
Use your scrap fabric to make this quick infinity scarf. Simply pull it up to your face when you need last-minute coverage.
World's Best Burp Cloth Tutorial
This easy burp cloth design can easily be quickly refashioned into a face mask with a little creativity if needed.
This face mask can also be slightly adjusted to work as a face mask if you like this one better than the face mask tutorials above.
Similar in shape to some of the basic DIY masks, this sanitary pad pattern can be adjusted as needed to work as a face covering. This is also a handy pattern to have when feminine hygiene products are in short supply anyway.
Greeter Deterrent Baby Carrier Cover
For babies! If you have to take them out, using a carrier cover like this provides a little bit of protection from the air. We would suggest leaving baby at home if possible when the outside is a harmful place, though.
Technically a bib but can be refashioned for babies and children if they have to go outside and need to have a face covering.
Another bandana option for children that can be adjusted to create a face covering. This is an easy project that can be made quickly.
CDC: Cloth Face Coverings Information
The CDC has also provided this printable chart for important information about cloth face coverings. This goes over how coverings work and how face coverings are different from other types of masks.
It also focuses on what to consider when wearing a fabric face covering like the patterns we're providing on this page.
Click here to download this CDC PDF
CDC: Cloth Face Covering Tips
Finally, the CDC has provided an additional downloadable chart featuring tips on how to safely wear and take off a face covering.
This provides insight on how to correctly wear a face mask so that it's covering what it needs to, why you should wear one, and how to behave when going out in public, then what to do when you return home.
Click here to download this CDC PDF
About the Author:
Krista Childers is the Senior Content Editor for AllFreeSewing. She has a passion for creative writing and trying every craft at least once. Find more of her work here:Krista Childers
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