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Sew a fabric mask (also great as a version with a bow)

07.11.2020 by Sabine Schmidt

Stoffmaske nähen (toll auch als Variante mit Schleife)

Sewing a fabric mask: In times of Covid-19, masks are more important than ever. You can sew this free face mask pattern with or without a bow.

The most important things at a glance

  • You can sew this fabric mask using woven and knit fabrics, such as jersey
  • You can download the pattern for the fabric mask for free here in the post
  • The mask does not protect you from Corona, but it can help prevent you from passing your own pathogens to others
  • The mask is ergonomically shaped and is designed to sit comfortably around the chin and nose
  • Sewing time: 20 min.

Is there any reason why our everyday masks shouldn't look pretty? I don't think so! A well-fitting mask doesn't really need anything extra. It's enough if it's made of beautiful, easy-to-wash fabric.

But hey, a little bow as an eye-catcher is also a fun idea!

In this guide, I'll show you the basic version of the quick mask. In the video, you can watch how to sew it as a bow mask as well. :)

Sewing a fabric mask

By the way, you can also sew the face mask with a nose wire. This is often the better alternative for eyeglass wearers. I show you how to sew the nose wire onto the finished mask in my guide for the makeshift mask.

Sewing a fabric mask: These fabrics are suitable

All non-elastic fabrics are suitable, such as:

You can also sew the mask from jersey scraps. It will be softer, but it won't hold its shape as well.

You can counteract this by reinforcing the back of the jersey with thin iron-on interfacing.

Download pattern

You can download the pattern for the fabric mask here for free.

Download: Fabric mask pattern

A 1 cm seam allowance is included in the pattern.

Would you like to sew and sell this mask?

If you would like to sell items sewn using this pattern, you need this license.

You can simply download it in my shop, fill it out, and send it to me via scan, post, or as a photo in an email. And you're ready to go!

Sewing a fabric mask

Sewing a fabric mask: Important accessories

By the way, instead of using a knot, you can also easily use a cord stopper on the elastic band. They even come in tiny sizes... ????

Fabric mask or bow mask: Which size is the right one?

This mask is ergonomically shaped. The sizes fit teens and adults.

Because faces are so different, I recommend trying one of the medium sizes on a test fabric first. Then you can decide which size is perfect for you.

Frequently asked questions

What do I need to sew a fabric mask?

You only need a bit of cotton fabric, two pieces of elastic, and your sewing machine. And you're ready to start.

Can beginners also sew a fabric mask?

Yes! With this guide, even sewing beginners will succeed in making the fabric mask. Just follow the instructions step by step.

How long does it take to sew a fabric mask?

You can sew this mask in 20 - 30 minutes. That depends a bit on how much sewing experience you have.

Links marked with * are affiliate links: If you make a purchase through them, we receive a small commission. The price remains the same for you.

Step-by-step instructions

Sew a fabric mask

Fabric mask with a drawstring casing and elastic — also possible as a version with a bow. Suitable for beginners, sewn in 20–30 minutes.

  1. Step

    Cut the fabric & elastic

    Cut the outer fabric and lining as well as 2 pieces of elastic about 20–22 cm long.

    Cut the fabric & elastic
  2. Step

    Pin the pattern pieces right sides together

    Pin the lining and outer fabric pattern pieces right sides together: lining fabric on lining fabric, outer fabric on outer fabric, edges aligned.

    Pin the pattern pieces right sides together
  3. Step

    Sew the front curve

    Sew the front curve with a straight stitch and 1 cm seam allowance. Backstitch at the beginning and end of the seam.

    Sew the front curve
  4. Step

    Trim the seam allowance

    Trim the seam allowance of the curve with pinking shears to 3–4 mm from the seam.

    Trim the seam allowance
  5. Step

    Pin the outer fabric and lining together

    Unfold the lining and outer fabric and pin the pattern pieces right sides together, edges aligned, with the seams matching exactly. Pin the pattern pieces together along the top and bottom edges.

    Pin the outer fabric and lining together
  6. Step

    Sew the top & bottom edges

    Sew the top and bottom edges with a straight stitch and 1 cm seam allowance. When you reach the centre seam, pull the fabric taut and lay it nice and flat in front of the presser foot. Then trim the seam allowances.

    Sew the top & bottom edges
  7. Step

    Turn & press the mask

    Turn the mask right side out through one of the side openings, shape it and press it. Optional: Topstitch the top and bottom edges with a longer straight stitch (e.g. 3.5 mm).

    Turn & press the mask
  8. Step

    Fold & sew the drawstring casing

    For the casing, fold the sides 2 × 1 cm to the inside. Edgestitch the casing with a straight stitch.

    Fold & sew the drawstring casing
  9. Step

    Thread in the elastic

    Thread the elastic through the casing with a bodkin and knot the ends. Done!

    Thread in the elastic

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About the author

Sabine

I come from Siegen-Wittgenstein, where I spent my childhood breaking in cows, jumping off haystacks and scraping a D- in needlework class.

Today, being creative feels like indescribable happiness to me – and it grows even more when I can share it with others. Since 2016 I have been celebrating my passion for sewing on this blog, and I love that sewing connects so many people.