As we rally together to get through the Coronavirus pandemic, it is crucial that we all do our part to prevent the spread of the virus, while at the same time ensuring that we are leaving the surgical masks and N-95 respirators to the healthcare professionals. As recommended by the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), we should be wearing cloth masks or face coverings in any area where community-based transmission is a possibility, for example in grocery stores, pharmacies, and public transportation. You can find more guidelines on cloth face covers from the CDC here.
With that said, we are sharing three simple ways to make your own cloth face mask at home (with minimal to no sewing required) courtesy of Youtuber Lauren Riihimaki aka LaurDIY.
To make sure you are well prepared before you watch the video, we have included a list of all the supplies you will need for the creation of each mask. As an added bonus, Lauren has also provided us with rankings on where each mask falls on the spectrum of comfortability and difficulty level (on a scale of 1-5, 5 being the highest difficulty) — for those new to the DIY game.
Version 1 – Bandana Face Mask (no sewing required)
Difficulty Level: 1/5
Comfort Level: 3/5 – more comfortable with a smaller bandana
What you will need:
- One bandana
- Two hair elastics or rubber bands
Version 2 – T-Shirt Face Mask (sewing required)
Difficulty Level: 3/5
Comfort Level: 4/5
What you will need:
- An old T-shirt
- A ruler or measuring tape
- Sewing Kit
- Scissors
- Two 6” pieces of elastic (or rubber bands, string, cloth strips, or hair ties)
Version 3 – Handkerchief Face Mask (sewing machine required)
Difficulty Level: 4/5
Comfort Level: 5/5
What you will need:
- Handkerchief or 10”x6” cotton fabric
- Two 6” pieces of elastic (substitute for rubber bands, string, cloth strips, or hair ties)
- Needle and thread (or bobby pin)
- Scissors
- Sewing machine
How to Wear Your Mask (as recommended by the CDC)
- Mask should fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face
- Be secured with ties or ear loops
- Include multiple layers of fabric
- Allow for breathing without restriction
- Be able to be laundered and machine dried without damage or change to shape
Making your own face mask doesn’t have to be difficult. With these tips, you can do your part to protect yourself and others. From the entire Flipp Family, we hope that everyone is staying healthy and safe. For more tips on staying safe while at the grocery store, check out these social distancing techniques.
