The Best DIY Face Masks

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If you asked me in January what I thought I would be doing this spring, I can safely say that watching Tiger King, making DIY face masks and wondering how much longer out toilet paper stash would last, would not be my answer.

But, here we are!

2020 really turned the tables on us didn’t it?

Last week, The Handsome Hunk, aka hubs, who is an essential worker, got a message from work that face masks would now be required starting the next day, but that none would be issued.

Cue the panic!

Since face masks are basically impossible to purchase now, and we have been told for weeks not to purchase/wear them *insert eye roll here*, we didn’t have any. That meant pulling out the sewing machine, and trying desperately to find some fabric around the house.

I found enough to make exactly two masks, with only a couple square inches of scrap. Apparently, I was not prepared for the coronapocalypse!

The first masks I made were not great. It did the trick for a day, but they didn’t fit all that well and I wasn’t impressed with the pattern. The next day I was able to acquire some more fabric. Suddenly, I understood why fabric stores have been considered essential! And, without being on a super strict deadline, I was able to do some more research and found a better way to make masks.

I tried a few different patterns, and found on this one from Sweet Red Poppy to be the best DIY face masks pattern. It is the most comfortable, has the best shape and the fitted nose piece. I have been using elastic cord instead of ties, which have been more comfortable and easier to take on and off. She has a video too, which for visual learners, is so helpful!

Things that will make your life easier when making your own DIY face masks:
– Elastic
– Fun 100% cotton quilting fabric
– Rotary cutter
– Pattern
– Floral wire (I doubled mine up since it was on the thin side)
– Thread
– Sewing machine (although you definitely could make them by hand, it is much easier with a sewing machine)
– A good podcast to listen to (v. important)

Etsy is your friend for sourcing materials. I have found most big box stores out of things like elastic, but sellers on Etsy are still selling by the yard. I use two 11″ elastic cord strips per mask to go behind the head.

Most of all, you need a positive attitude. This is a difficult time for everyone. There are so many big emotions going on. I found that mindset is the most important thing for me. This time can be whatever we choose to make of it. And, while I am ready for this all to be a distant memory, I am also choosing to make good, happy memories during this time as well.

Happy DIY face masks making!

If you like this, check out fun things to do while social distancing and how to save $500 this and every month!