In response to the current COVID-19 crisis, I want to encourage our sewing community to use our time and talent to help those on the front lines. For those who participate — thank you for helping others so they can more safely help us!
This pattern was developed with an RN in an attempt to allow users to insert an extra disposable and replaceable layer of protection that could be easily switched out as needed.
SUPPLIES
- ONE piece FRESHLY WASHED closely woven 100% cotton, cut 9”x12”
- FOUR ties 18” long
TIES: If you don’t have elastic available you can easily make your own ties. If you have some pre-made bias tape, seam to hold closed. Or make your own with a bias tape maker. Or cut fabric strips 2”x 19” (or so!), iron in half (long way), fold raw edges toward center fold, close fold back up and seam to hold shut, being sure to fold one short end in to form the finished edge that will hang out. (Seam short raw edge into mask.)
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Hem short edges of fabric by ironing over ¼”, then ¼” again. Topstitch down.
2. Fold right sides together, so finished edges meet in middle to form slot. Iron in place.
3. Pull one finished edge up slightly so “hems” lay on top of each other to form a small overlap. Iron to hold new fold in place.
4. Seam each short edge, placing ties in center with ends sticking out at corner so ends will get seamed in place. Couple extra backstitches on ties never hurts!
5. Turn, push out corners and edges. Iron flat.
6. Put TWO pleats along each short edge: Lay flat with slot up. Pull top pleat down, and bottom pleat up (leaving slot showing) so that pleats are in opposite direction and open to give center more space. Adjust pleats so finished short edges will be 3″.
7. Sew along short edges to keep pleats in place, and again 1/8” over to be doubly secure.
8. Smile and pat yourself on the back; by so generously using your seamstress skills you may have just helped saved someone’s life. Thank you.
