Since the beginning of the pandemic I have been making my own custom design face masks to wear in shops and on public transport. To get you into the Halloween spirit, I shall be giving you a step-by-step tutorial on how to make your own face mask in some Halloween fabric.
In order to make your mask you will need the following:
- Some cotton fabric for the outer layer of the mask. I have chosen a Halloween design featuring dancing skeletons
- A T-shirt fabric for the middle layer (this works as a protective layer between the bottom cotton fabric to prevent any potential germs getting through)
- Some elastic or ribbon
- Pins and thread
- The pattern piece (You use this as a guide to cut out your design and there’s loads of free ones if you have a quick Google)
I am making my masks with my sewing machine, however, you can just as easily use a needle and thread. For the purpose of this tutorial I will be giving tips for those of you with a sewing machine.
Method:
- You will need to pin your pattern piece to your fabric and cut out x 2 of each for each layer (There will be 3 layers in total.)
2. By now you should have chosen your thread (I am using a burgundy for my bottom thread and black for my top.) Before you start stitching along the centre seams, if you are using a sewing machine, use a spare bit of material to make sure the tension of your stiches are right.
You might need to allow time to shout at your sewing machine if the bobbin in the bobbin case doesn’t thread.
3. So now, sew along the centre seam of the plain cotton fabric and pin the top fabric to the T-shirt material and sew along the centre seam.
4. Now pin the right sides of the fabric together and sew along the top and bottom seams.
5. Turn the mask inside out. Only the outer edges should still be open (it should be showing the patterned sides of the fabric at this point.)
6. Finally, pin the elastic to the underside of the open side seams so that the raw edges are folded inwards to make a neat hem. Once you have done this, sew along both seams.
7. Now, all of your edges should be turned in and your elastic is attached. Your mask should be looking like this:
It’s Ready!
There you have it! My step-by-step guide to making your very own Halloween face mask. Have fun and stay safe, just because there is a pandemic going on it doesn’t mean you can’t still get into the Halloween Spirit.
Amber xx
Worcester Student Life 