Face Masks

DIY Face Masks

MAKE YOUR OWN FACE MASK WITH FLOUR SACK KITCHEN TOWELS

100% cotton tea towels can be utilized as a quality fabric for constructing a homemade cloth face mask. While any cloth can help stop large droplets from getting in or out, avoid knit fabrics (e.g. jersey T-shirts) because the material stretches and creates holes. The best fabric for homemade masks is a tightly woven, 100% cotton fabric. According to a 2013 Cambridge study, dish towel material is 82 percent as effective as a surgical mask.

Where do I buy flour sack towels?

Our selection of flour sack tea towels are perfect for homemade masks! With no minimum quantity, you can choose from a variety of sizes. We recommend our Premium towels with a 130 thread count as the best material for mask making. It is a breathable 100% cotton flat weave. Our Premium 20” x 20” size (folded in half) can make one mask. For bulk discount towels, add at least 12 or 50+ to your cart for an average savings of 30-60%!

It is recommended to pre-wash in hot water and high heat dry to allow shrinkage before constructing so the mask will keep its shape through multiple uses and washes.

Cloth face coverings should—

  • fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face
  • be secured with ties or ear loops
  • include multiple layers of fabric
  • allow for breathing without restriction
  • be able to be laundered and machine dried without damage or change to shape

CDC recommended DIY homemade cloth mask (with no-sew options)

Face Covering Informational Guides

howtowearamask

According to GoodHouseKeeping.com, “on top of a sewing machine and fabric, you’ll need a nonwoven filter fabric to help block out particles and a metal piece (like a paper clip) to make it fit snugly around the nose.”

Two great sewing guides for cloth masks:

Printable free mask template by Amanda Perna, fashion designer and Project Runway alum

Lists of places accepting donated fabric masks:

Check out these informational guides regarding homemade cloth face coverings as well as a pattern for how to make a face covering. These PDFs can be downloaded below:

Source: https://intermountainhealthcare.org/covid19-coronavirus/homemade-cloth-face-coverings/