Face Masks - with removable nose wire

Face masks - with removable nose wire

To prevent spread of Covid-19

I made about 15-20 face masks for family and friends. Below is the pleated style, using quilters cotton on front and cotton t-shirt fabric on the back. Most of the quilt fabric has been in my stash for a few (or more) years. 

This is not a complete tutorial. I have gathered many ideas from various internet sources. The nose wire helps get a better fit around your nose.

Make a 45 degree cut to establish true bias

Cut a  2-inch strip of fabric at least 6 inches long

To create a casing, cut a piece of fabric on the bias that measures 6" X 2", turn under the short sides and machine stitch a hem. Fold fabric lengthwise, WRONG sides together, and stitch a 1/4" to 3/8" seam. Enclose this strip of fabric inside before sewing mask right sides together, leaving a 3-inch opening for turning. Also remember to include your elastic or ties of choice. Turn your mask right sides out, press, and add three pleats (several you tube tutorials are available).  Press again, & top stitch around the edges to reinforce ties/elastic, to close the turn and hold down the casing.

Insertion of a  bias fabric casing for nose wire

This mask will have 7" elastic on each side for ears

Using a 7-inch piece of wire, fold wire ends in twice to prevent poking your face. You can substitute pipe cleaners or doubled twist ties for the jewelry wire.  

Cut a  7-inch piece of 16-18 gauge aluminum jewelry wire

These masks are to prevent YOU from transmitting the disease if you are an asymptomatic carrier. The CDC is recommending everyone to wear a cloth face mask or face covering to prevent the spread of Covid-19.

Wear your mask in good health.