Face Mask Patterns Below are a couple of free face mask patterns you can use to make your own protective gear and donate to various hospitals in need. Not only do your local hospitals need reusable fabric face masks, but veterinarian hospitals are in need, too. Many have surrendered their protective equipment or have simply run out due to the coronavirus pandemic, and when our furry friends need medical intervention and hospitalization face masks are essential. Comment below if you’d like to use these free face mask patterns and donate face masks to veterinarian hospitals but are unsure where to send the finished masks. You can join my local effort. Or reach out in your community to find where to donate locally. These face mask patterns are boasted as CDC-approved. However, I encourage you to obtain specific requirements from the receiving hospital or organization prior to donating masks to ensure they can be used as intended. Join our Sew Masks with Sulky Facebook Group for even more mask patterns, tips and tricks and from Sulky and others in the sewing community. BASIC PLEATED FACE MASK The first face mask pattern is a basic pleated face mask from Courier Press and has been circulating on the internet as CDC-compliant. I sewed several of these over the weekend using tightly woven cotton fabric for the outer mask and flannel for the lining. 1/4″ elastic works well for each end. 1/8″ also works, and works well for children’s masks, too. After consulting with a veterinarian anesthesiologist friend, he confirmed that these types of masks would be welcomed in his hospitals. The prospect of even having three of my masks gave him much excitement, so I pledged to make as many as possible for his cause. These masks are also popular with children, as they seem to fit comfortably. As children return to schools and activities, and as long as mask mandates are imposed, consider making this version in a slightly smaller size to fit a child’s face. FACE MASK SUPPLIES For each mask, you need a 9″ x 6″ fabric rectangle for the outer and lining. I used 50 wt. Cotton + Steel thread by Sulky for construction. You also need two 7″ lengths of elastic. Various widths will work, so use what you have on hand to avoid shopping and breaking the social distancing rule. Alternatively, bias tape, ribbon or fabric ties may work for ties but I suggest consulting with the receiving organization before substituting to ensure CDC compliance. Watch me make this face mask style on Sew What?, our Facebook Live series, also available on-demand on our YouTube channel. FREE SEWING FACE MASK This face mask pattern has a curved shape, covering more of the face in a seemingly more secure fashion. The pattern is free to distribute and use. Follow the link to get the pattern pieces and full instructions, along with a short video tutorial. I am experimenting with using various weights of stabilizer for this type of mask, to provide breathability as well as protection. Sulky Cut-Away Plus seems to be a favorite among mask-makers. It can be used alone (without fabric) or added between fabric layers for extra protection. We are not scientists–this is important–so please consult with experts to determine the materials that are right for you, your family and your community. Comment below if you’ve tried different methods with success, so we can all learn from your techniques as well! HOW TO DONATE Place your finished masks inside of a zip-top bag and label with how many are enclosed. The receiving organization should (and will) fully sanitize them prior to use. Reach out to local vet hospitals to see if the surgeons and vets are in need of the masks and how to donate them. Schools are also requesting handmade masks to supplement the supply they are given for students. Once you find a place in need, schedule a UPS pickup to avoid going to the Post Office. LEARN MORE Join our Sew Masks with Sulky Facebook Group for even more mask patterns, tips and tricks and from Sulky and others in the sewing community. For more free projects, product specials and more delivered to your inbox, sign up for our newsletter!