Sewing an Origami Mask: I really like simple face masks in the Japanese style. Because they look great, are sewn quickly and: have a great fit (also for glasses wearers). With free pattern and instructions.
The most important at a glance
- Even beginners can sew the Origami masks in no time (in under 20 min)
- The pattern is available in 3 sizes for download
- The mask is sewn from woven cotton fabric
- Instead of cotton, you can also very well use antibacterial-treated fabrics*, e.g. Shield fabric
- The face mask is optimally suitable for glasses wearers, finally no more fogged-up lenses (experience reports in the comments)
- The mask does not protect you from pathogens, but it can help catch the pathogens you release into the breathing air. This way you protect others.
- No time to sew? Make a seamless mask quickly yourself (in under 2 min)
What is special about the Origami fold mask?
You surely know that I love the Japanese style also in bags and pouches. Because it is both minimalist and refined. And leaves plenty of room for the beauty of the materials .
With this mask, it is no different: It gets its beautiful shape through a simple folding technique and two layers of fabric that stabilize each other. Sewn (with my new sewing machine!) only with straight seams, which give the mask additional support on the sides.
That it is so easy and quick to sew makes the Origami mask the ideal sewing project for beginners.
The idea behind the sewing technique is not new, there are many great instructions for it online. However, I did not come so well to grips with the dimensions and the fit. That is why I tried for so long until it was clear: I need something of my own. ;)
Unlike most other masks in the 3D style, this one is only finished on the sides and then turned over. This makes the seam tunnel significantly flatter and more comfortable to wear.
Just try it out! :)
Be sure to also check out my other free mask patterns!
By the way: If you like ergonomic masks (even with little bows, if you like!), you should click into this instruction!.
Storing the face mask
In my experience, it has proven to be good to have two clearly distinguishable bags with you: One that houses the clean masks. And one for the worn ones.
I simply throw this bag into the washing machine unopened. This protects the elastic bands of the masks. This method has the further advantage that the mini parts do not mysteriously disappear in the washing machine (you may know the phenomenon from socks)... ;)
A super practical storage for face masks is, for example, the coffee filter bag. You can download the pattern for free. A detailed instruction along with a sewing video also makes it easy for beginners to conjure up the little bag.

Face mask for glasses wearers
The (in my "view") best mask for glasses wearers: If you push the upper edge a little under the glasses, the glasses do not fog up at all. I find this absolutely crucial, e.g. for longer wearing times.
For this reason, the Origami mask is for me a very practical face mask as a glasses wearer.
A special mask for glasses wearers (which, because it is so pretty, should actually be called a "beauty mask"), you can also find here at SewSimple.
Does the mask protect against pathogens?
No, the mask is not a medical product and does not filter germs from the breathing air. But it can help catch pathogens that you release when coughing, sneezing, breathing, or speaking. This way you protect others.

Sewing an Origami mask: Which fabrics are suitable?
You can sew it from simple woven cotton fabric* and sew it two- or even three-layered. But also flannel*, ticking*, linen* and many other fabrics are suitable for the project.
Also great: sewing the face mask from fabric scraps. This way you also give your pile of scraps a purpose! If you want to sew sustainably, you can also make the face mask from worn clothing!
Here you can order fabrics for the face mask:
If you, like me, love Kokka fabrics, I recommend you take a look at Etsy*. There you will find a huge selection of the tastiest and rarest Japanese fabrics! With that we are back on topic... ;)
If you have never sewn with Kokka fabrics before: Try it out! They are incredibly easy to work with and look great, especially for patterns in the Japanese style . Read everything about handling fabrics here.
Small extra tip: If you want to wash the mask at high temperatures, you can also sew it from bed linen. Cotton sheets* are great for this. Even if these materials are often sold with a washing recommendation of 60 degrees. Just wash once at 90 degrees before processing, then nothing will shrink anymore.
And if you use boil-proof elastic*, your Origami masks will naturally also be boil-proof afterwards!
For a mask made of functional fabrics, instead of cotton, you can also very well use antibacterial-treated fabrics*, e.g. Shield fabric. This fabric is also wonderful for sewing functional and sportswear.
What do you need to sew the Origami mask?
- 2 pattern pieces from cotton fabric
- approx. 24 - 26 cm elastic,*
- alternatively: elastic cord or jersey noodle
- Trick marker* or Pencil
- Sewing thread*
- Rotary cutter*
- Fabric scissors*
- Patchwork ruler*
- Sewing machine and/or overlocker
- Pins*
- Fabric clips* (these are the narrow clips that I also use in the video)
If you sew the elastic in two pieces, you can also great equip it with a cord stopper*. They are also available in very mini... :)
A really great idea is also the pre-cut elastic with soft stoppers* for adjusting. Do you know that already?
Which sewing machine do you use in the video?
I am asked that very often. That is my new Juki. You can of course see a detailed experience report here on the blog.
Download: Origami Mask Pattern
You can download the free pattern for the Origami mask here:
Origami Mask Pattern Size XS (Children)
Origami Mask Pattern Size S (Teenagers)
Origami Mask Pattern Size M (Women)
Important: Reproduction and distribution of the pattern or instructions are not permitted.

Dimensions incl. seam allowance
Would you like to sew and sell this mask?
If you want to sell pieces sewn from this pattern, you need this license.
You can simply download it in my shop, fill it out and send it to me by scan, post or as a photo in an email. And then you can get started!
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