Introduction: Facemask With Filter Pocket, Nose Wire and Elastic

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Hi, I'm a member of a local facemask making group.

This tutorial is adopted from the YouTube video below to meet the particular request we are working on:

Thank you for the great instruction, EasyToSew!

Supplies

  • 15" x 9" fabric, tightly woven 100% cotton
  • 6 1/2" twist tie/thin craft wire
  • 2 of 11" long elastic
  • Thread

Step 1: Cut the Fabric in Approx 15" X 9"

Step 2: Prepare the Nose Wire

I didn't have twist tie available. I cut craft wire into approx 6.5" pieces then bent the ends, making sure they are't sharp.

Step 3: Serge or Zigzag Stitch Both Short Edges

Serge or zigzag stitch the 9" edges

Step 4: Sew the Sides of the Pocket

Sew from the edges for 1 1/2" long, leaving the pocket on center.

Step 5: Divide the Seam

Step 6: Stitch Around the Pocket

Turn the piece inside out and stitch the both side of the pocket.

Step 7: Measure 1/2" From the Top Seam

Measure 1/2" from the top seam, then fold with an iron.

Step 8: Stitch All the Way Around

Step 9: Fold 3 Pleats, Then Stitch to Secure the Pleats on Both Sides

I made my pleats in approx 1" each, making 3" to 3 1/2" wide sides.

Step 10: Cut Bias

Cut 2 bias (45 degrees) pieces in 4.5" x 2". You can cut bias at the first step but if you are sewing masks for your first time, it's easier to put your mask from previous step onto the bias so you can see the bias is long enough to cover the mask. If it's too long, cut the excess.

Step 11: Apply the Bias

Put the bias pieces on top of your mask. Fold the top and bottom, iron, then stitch both left and right sides.

Step 12: Turn the Bias Pieces Inside Out, Iron

Step 13: Fold the Bias, Iron

Fold the bias at 1/2" from the edge, iron.

Step 14: Fold the Bias Into Half, Iron, Stitch

Fold the bias into half, iron, then stitch from the front side of the mask.

Step 15: Put the Wire Inside From the Pocket

Put the wire inside from the pocket.

Step 16: Stitch Along the Wire to Secure It

I broke one needle once when I put the wire before making pleats, so I moved this step to later process.

Step 17: Tada! Insert the Elastics, Then You Are Done!

Step 18: Variations

There are lots of variations to make masks on the internet. For our masks, the facility has the filters, but I've read that non woven interfacing (not fusible) can be used. Good luck and stay healthy!