Crafting Sock Face Masks: A Step-By-Step Guide

During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a shortage of N95 and surgical masks, so people looked for ways to create or access makeshift face coverings. While cloth masks are not as effective as N95 respirator masks, they provide a marginal level of protection and help prevent the spread of the virus. Here is a guide on how to make a face mask using a sock.

Characteristics of a Sock Face Mask

Choose a long sock with some length to stretch across your face

When making a face mask from a sock, it is important to choose a long sock that has some length to stretch across your face. The sock should be long enough to cover your mouth and fit around your ears. You will also want to ensure that the sock is comfortable on your skin and made of breathable fabric. Cotton dress socks or gym socks are good options. If you have old stretched-out socks that won't stay up, they can be perfect for this project.

The length of the sock is crucial as it needs to stretch across your face without being too tight or uncomfortable. You want to create a mask that fits snugly but is not too tight, as this could restrict your breathing. The ideal sock should have some stretch and flexibility to ensure a comfortable fit.

Additionally, the chosen sock should be clean and free from any holes or tears. It is important to ensure that the sock is in good condition, especially if you are making the mask for protective purposes, such as during a pandemic. A clean sock will also be more hygienic and help prevent the spread of germs or viruses.

When selecting a sock, consider the colour and design. A plain sock in a neutral colour, such as black, white, or grey, may be more aesthetically pleasing and discreet. On the other hand, a colourful or patterned sock can add a touch of personality and uniqueness to your mask.

In summary, when choosing a sock to make a face mask, opt for a long sock with some stretch that will comfortably cover your face. Ensure the sock is made of breathable fabric and is clean and free from any damage. Consider the colour and design to achieve your desired look, whether it's discreet or bold.

Cut two strips from the open end of the sock to make ear straps

To make a sock face mask, you will need a pair of scissors and a sock. It is recommended that you use a long sock, one without the elastic band at the top, and one that is made of a breathable fabric such as cotton.

To make the ear straps, cut two strips from the open end of the sock. These strips should be about 3/4 of an inch to an inch wide. The strips may fray, but this is not a problem. You will use these strips to secure your mask around your ears.

The number of strips you cut will depend on your preference for wearing the mask. If you want to wear the mask with the strips around your ears, cut two strips. If you want to wear the mask with the strips tied behind your head, cut four strips. This will give you two strips for the ears and two strips to tie behind your head.

The strips should be long enough to comfortably fit around your ears, or your head, depending on your preference. You can always cut the strips shorter if needed, so it is better to start with longer strips.

Now that you have cut your strips, you can continue with the next steps to make your sock face mask.

Cut open the sock's body lengthwise, then lay it open

To make a sock face mask, you'll need a pair of scissors and a sock that's long enough to stretch across your face. The sock should be made of a breathable fabric that feels comfortable on your skin, like cotton. If you're using a new sock, make sure to wash it first. Alternatively, you could use an old stretched-out sock that won't stay up but is still taking up space in your sock drawer.

Once you've chosen your sock, it's time to start cutting. Place the sock on a flat surface and use your scissors to cut along the back seam, from the ankle to the toe, so that the heel is separated. Then, carefully cut off the elastic band at the top of the sock and the closed end of the sock (the toe part). You should now have a rectangular piece of fabric with a hole in the middle.

Now, you'll create the ear straps. Cut two strips from the elastic band you removed earlier, making sure they're long enough to fit comfortably around your ears. The width of the strips can be anywhere from 3/4 of an inch to 1 inch. Don't worry if the strips fray a little; this won't affect the functionality of your mask.

With your sock body and ear straps ready, it's time to assemble the mask. Lay the sock body open on your work surface, with the outside facing down if you want the "nicer" side to show when you wear the mask. Position the ear straps on each end of the sock body, about 2-3 inches from the edges. You can adjust the placement later if needed.

Slide on the ear straps, aiming for 2-3 inches from the end

Once you've cut the sock open lengthwise and laid it out flat, it's time to add the ear straps. Take the strips you cut from the open end of the sock and slide them onto the mask, one on each end. You should be aiming for about 2-3 inches from the end of the sock. This is an important step to ensure a good fit, but don't worry too much if it's not exact – you can always adjust the placement of the ear straps later.

The strips will likely be quite slippery, so take care not to stretch the sock out of shape as you slide them on. You can gently pinch the fabric of the sock to create a bit of friction and hold it in place as you thread the strips through. It might also help to hold the sock down with a paperweight or similar object as you work.

If you're happy with the placement of the strips, you can secure them with a few small stitches or a dot of fabric glue. This will make your mask sturdier and prevent the strips from moving around or getting lost.

Now that you've added the ear straps, you're nearly done! All that's left to do is fold the ends of the sock towards the middle and give your new mask a try.

Fold the ends of the sock towards the middle, then put the mask on

When making a face mask from a sock, it's important to choose the right sock. Opt for a long sock, preferably one made from cotton or another breathable fabric. Something with a bit of stretch is ideal.

Now, lay the sock flat and cut two strips from the open end. These will be your ear straps, so cut them about 3/4 of an inch to an inch wide. Next, cut open the body of the sock along the back seam, through the heel, so that it opens up.

Here comes the folding part: take the ends of the sock and fold them towards the middle. You can now put the mask on, using the loops you've created to secure it around your ears. Adjust the loops so that the mask is snug but not too tight. If you need to, you can use safety pins to keep the flaps in place and prevent the loops from slipping off your ears.

Frequently asked questions