If you’re making masks to donate to health care providers, consider wearing a face mask while you make them. This way you won’t accidentally breathe, cough, or sneeze on the masks you’re making.

You may be able to get free supplies from a local fabric or craft store if you’re donating the masks. For instance, Joann Fabrics will provide the materials you need to make masks for donations, free of charge. [5] X Research source

If you don’t have a printer, just cut out a rectangle that’s 7 in (18 cm) wide x 8 in (20 cm) tall. Then, reference the pattern as a guide while you’re working. This mask is pretty easy to make.

Keep the pattern nearby because it’ll help you figure out where to fold the fabric when you’re making the body of the mask.

If you have fabric with different patterns or colors, you might want to use a different fabric for your straps.

To make sure your straps stay in place, line up the rough edge of the fabric with the bottom of the fabric strip.

This stitch will hold the fabric tie in place and leave a small tunnel at the top of the mask.

If you don’t have any metal wire, use a twisty tie. Just strip off the paper first, as it will come off in the wash if you don’t.

Use the mask pattern as a guide for making your pleats.

Don’t forget to use the pattern for reference.

This is exactly like the first step for making the mask.

You can skip the topstitch if you’re in a hurry. However, your mask will hold up better in the wash if you add a topstitch.

If necessary, you can air-dry your mask. However, heat will kill more germs, so using a dryer is your best bet. If you don’t have a washing machine, sanitize the mask by boiling it for 10 minutes. Then, lay it out on a sanitized surface to air dry. [11] X Research source