Making a Mask
Supplies: 
One piece of 8”x18”(Large) or 8’x16”(Small) Fabric
Two strips of elastic 8” (L) or 7” (S) long
One twist tie or pipe cleaner 4’-5” long (optional)
For a video tutorial, go here
Step 1: Fold and sew the top
Fold the fabric in half with the right sides together;
Sew 1.5” on both sides of the top, leaving a 5” gap in the center. This gap will be the pocket opening for the filter;
Step 2: Finish the edge of pocket opening
Center the seam allowance and use an iron to press the seam allowance flat. (optional)
Add topstitching to both sides of the seam. This holds the seam allowance flat and in place.
Flatten your mask and position the seam/pocket opening 1/2" down from the top edge. To help out in the next step you can press this flat and pin the open edges together.
Step 3: Stitch the elastic bands
Place one of the ends of your elastic diagonally (45 degree angle) on the top-right corner. Sew the elastic in place.
Attach the other end of the elastic to the bottom-right corner of your rectangle. Sew the elastic in place.
Sew the other elastic on the left side.
Sew both left and right sides.
Step 4: Insert the nose piece (optional)
Insert the twist tie or pipe cleaner though the pocket opening and center it at the top edge of the seam.
To lock it in place, sew on the top edge of the pocket opening seam. Your pocket should still be open and functional.
Step 5: Turn the fabric right side out
You will have a rectangular mask now with pocket opening on top and elastic loops on sides.
Caution: The back is the side with the pocket opening
Step 6: Sew pleats
Place the attached Folding Pattern on the mask.
Use a pen to mark position of Line 1, 1’, 2, 2’, 3, 3’ on the mask.
Fold three pleats based on line positions, 1 to 1’, 2 to 2’, 3 to 3’.
After folding, the pleats are about ½” wide.
Tape the pleats to keep them in place.
Sew along the entire side with a 1/8" edge stitch to keep the pleats in place and repeat for both sides.
Congratulations! The mask is done!
