Make A Face Mask From A T-Shirt: Easy Guide

As the world continues to battle the COVID-19 pandemic, face masks have become a necessity. The CDC recommends wearing cloth face masks in public settings where social distancing is difficult to maintain. This has led to a rise in people looking for face mask alternatives, with many opting to make their own at home. In this article, we will discuss how to make a cloth face mask from a T-shirt, providing a simple DIY solution for those who want extra protection when out in public.

Cutting the t-shirt

To make a cloth face mask from a T-shirt, you will need a pair of scissors and an old T-shirt. It is recommended that you use a 100% cotton knit T-shirt. Wash and dry the T-shirt before you start.

Firstly, cut off the bottom band and sleeves of the T-shirt. Cut straight across to remove the bottom band from the T-shirt. Repeat straight across under the arms so that you’re left with a uniform tube of fabric.

Next, cut straight up the centre of the front or back of the T-shirt, but do not cut through both layers. Fold out the two sides so that you have one rectangle of fabric.

Now, fold the rectangle in thirds along the horizontal line. You can then cut the fabric to form stretchy ties/straps. Cut from the outer edge of each side, in towards the bands. Leave about 1″ of doubled fabric on the top and the bottom.

Finally, cut the inner area completely away from the mask. You can now adjust the length of the “straps” to tie behind your head and neck. You can even cut the straps shorter and then tie the top to the bottom to make little loops to go around your ears.

Folding the fabric

Method 1: Using a Cricut Maker

If you have a Cricut Maker, you can cut out the pattern onto card stock and use it to trace the design by hand onto your t-shirt. Alternatively, you can cut the design directly out of the fabric using your Cricut Maker, skipping the step of drawing and tracing.

Method 2: By Hand

If you don't have a Cricut Maker, you can draw the pattern and trace it onto your t-shirt. Take a picture of the pattern and note the measurements at the widest and tallest points to help with sizing. You can also download a free pattern online and print it out.

Once you have your pattern, cut out the fabric pieces. You should have four separate pieces. Take the two smaller pieces and sew them together along the long, curved side. Do the same with the two larger pieces.

Now, take the longest piece (which will be the front of the mask) and fold over the outside edges about 1/2" towards the middle seam you just sewed. Sew these folds, leaving enough room to thread an elastic or shoelace through.

Final Steps

Place the two pieces of fabric together, with the seams on the outside. Sew along the top and bottom, leaving 1/2" at the edge so you don't block the opening for your ties. Leave the sides unattached so you can slip a filter inside if desired.

Flip the mask right-side out through the openings you left on the sides. Sew along the top and bottom again to reinforce the seams. Finally, thread an elastic or shoelace through the channel on each side of the mask.

Securing the mask with ties or loops

Firstly, decide whether you want to use ties or loops to secure your mask. For ties, you can use fabric cut from the sleeves or bottom of your t-shirt. For loops, you will need something stretchy like rubber bands, loom bands, or elastic hair ties, or shoelaces.

If using ties, cut the fabric into strips of an appropriate length and width for tying behind your head and neck. You can also cut the strips shorter and tie the top to the bottom to make little loops that go around your ears.

If using loops, adjust the placement of the loops so that they hit your side cheeks just inside your ears. Then, cut the fabric to form stretchy ties or straps, leaving about 1" of doubled fabric on the top and bottom. You can also use a stretchy t-shirt yarn for this purpose.

For both ties and loops, ensure that the length is adjustable to fit your face comfortably. You may need to test the fit a few times before finalising the length.

Remember, the mask should fit snugly but comfortably against your face, allowing for unrestricted breathing. The CDC recommends that cloth face coverings should be secured with either ties or ear loops to ensure a proper fit.

Adding a filter

If you are making a no-sew mask, you can cut two 1-inch wide strings from the bottom of your t-shirt. Cut tiny slits along one side of the mask and weave the strings in and out of the holes. Then, add your filter, such as a coffee filter or a blue shop towel, and you're done!

If you are sewing your mask, leave an 8cm opening to insert a filter. You can use eco tissue, or even spray essential oils such as tea tree, peppermint, or eucalyptus onto the filter.

Remember, whichever type of mask you make, it should be snug and cover both your nose and mouth.

Washing the mask

It is important to wash your cloth face mask regularly, especially after each wear, to help limit the spread of the coronavirus and other germs. The CDC recommends washing masks "regularly", and experts suggest washing them at the end of each day, especially if they are dirty or wet.

If you use a polypropylene or paper filter in your mask, be sure to remove it before washing the mask. You should throw it away and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Most cloth masks can be washed in the washing machine, but some may need to be hand-washed, so be sure to read the label or look for instructions on the website where you purchased the mask. When washing your cloth mask, use a mesh laundry bag to protect the ear loops from snagging or stretching.

There is no need to use hot water when washing your mask, as the coronavirus is easily broken down with soap and water, no matter the temperature. Heat can shrink some natural fabrics and can also cause wear and tear over time, particularly for synthetic materials. Warm water is fine, but some masks may require a cold wash, so always read the care labels.

You can dry your cloth mask in the dryer, but the heat can accelerate wear and tear, so it is best to air-dry your mask. Ensure that your cloth face covering has dried thoroughly to avoid mould.

If you don't have a washing machine, or you only have one or two masks, you can hand-wash your masks. Clean out your sink and pour in some warm water and soap or laundry detergent. Swish your mask around to ensure the water and soap completely saturate it, then rinse it off thoroughly. Gently squeeze your mask to remove excess water, then smooth it back into shape. Finally, air-dry the mask, and don't put it on until it is completely dry.

Frequently asked questions