When the world realized Covid-19 would be responsible for a pandemic, I wondered how the last pandemic in 1918 ended. Masks made a big difference in America during that pandemic and it looks like they are being recommended again. Originally, masks weren’t recommended by the CDC because they were concerned health workers wouldn’t be able to access enough of them if everyone bought them up. (Based on the toilet paper hoarding I can see why they were concerned). Although I thought they really underestimated crafters! During WWII women knitted and crocheted for the soldiers in a massive effort. In that spirit, let’s make some masks! They are fairly easy to make. I based the ones I made on this video. I made some alterations to it though as shown below. You can use store bought fabric, or cut up an old sheet or T-shirt to make your mask. If you are using the same type of fabric for both layers, just cut one long piece.
Fold it over inside out and just sew up one edge. Then turn it right side out.
If you do have two different types of cloth you’ll have to sew both sides.
After that, follow the steps in the video to fold and pin the mask fabric. In the video they suggest using ribbon for a tie, but I think elastic works better. I’ve tried a few different types, but I think thinner types work better. I got this elastic at Coles (grocery store in Australia). If you use this thin type, tie a knot at each end so you can sew it down securely. Just sew around the knot.
Next, fold over the edge of the fabric and sew along the edge.
Do the same with the other side of the mask, and you are done!
Wearing masks isn’t the only thing you should do to help reduce the spread of Covid-19. If you’d like to learn more, take a look at the blog post written by Dr Erin Bromage.
