With the world currently battling with pollution levels, volcanic eruptions, bush fires, smog and haze in cities, and now the Covid-19 virus, wearing a face mask will soon be the norm. Whether you want to use a face mask for a cold, while traveling outdoors, recovering from chemotherapy or other illnesses, work related reasons, allergies, cleaning, fashion statement or simply hiding from people you don’t like to talk to, I have tried my best to cover the many styles of designs available on the market.
Over the next few days I will be releasing a few face mask patterns for you to download to use for free. You will be able to make your very own washable, re-usable face masks. Great for gifts or just to make some money on the side. I have drafted these patterns with the help of designs I have seen out and about whilst shopping for face masks. I wasn’t happy with the fit or the design, so I have decided to make my own designs with improvements.
At present I am living in a city that is facing a shortage of face masks. There are people that cannot get hold of any. Some people resort to reusing masks that are meant to be used only once. While others try and make do with what they could find around the house, or simply people just can’t afford the prices shops are asking for.
People are getting desperate!
Duckbill Style Face Mask
This Duckbill Style face mask is a lot more street, modern and stylish compared to the surgical style designs available. The mask was designed to allow the top edge and the bottom edge to naturally wrap the face without having to insert a nose bar. The shape does not allow the mask to ride upwards to obstruct your sight. The sides are slightly longer than most masks on the market for more coverage around the face. The front of the mask has a little space so it does not sit next to your lips and will not obstruct your speech.
The patterns will be quite simple to sew together, but you might need help understanding the pattern if you have never made one before. I have tried to keep it quite basic without compromising on the design. A lot of tutorials out there covering the making of the masks are not intuitive enough or does not tell you how to properly cut out a piece of fabric.
Size & Design
My face masks will come in a minimal of 3 sizes. Some will have more depending on the style. I will be releasing at least 5 different styles to suit different people’s tastes and preferences. Some people will find certain designs fit their faces better than others. Since some people are finding it hard to buy face masks in the city. I have also designed a face mask cover with the intent of using a surgical mask on the inside for proper filtration and to prolong its use.
When printing (ideally on A4 International Paper) all patterns should be printed 100% scale with No Scale to Fit Page/Media. The envelope should be printed Landscape and fit Page/Media to not waste space on the paper.
FREE ENVELOPE
Here is a little gift for you to keep your patterns together and organised. Lookout for the other designs.
All you need to do is cut it out and dab a bit of glue to the sides, wait for it to dry and you are good to go.
The envelope should be printed Landscape and Fit Page/Media to not waste space on the paper.
I am not able to make the envelope into a PDF file because it will be too large and will cause my website to crash. This is because my web hosting company cannot handle the downloading traffic. Last time it caused my site to be down for 3 days! For now, it will be a JPEG file.
NEW Due to popular request, I have created an Extra Large pattern for those that have big face family members and friends! Sorry it has taken a bit of time. I don’t have any big guys here to model it onto.
Click on the image to download.
OTHER AVAILABLE PATTERNS TO COLLECT
Disclaimer/Please take note: My face masks do not replace medical/surgical face masks. These are also not designed to be used on babies or toddlers. Supervision is a must on small children.
These are face masks with basic filtration. It is good for dust particles and maybe blocking out some odours. Most of my masks requires only 2 layers of fabric, but you may consider making a 3 layer one by using water repellent/waterproof fabrics on the outer layer, a filtration layer in the middle, then an absorbent material next to your skin.
In some of my tutorials, I use the patterned fabric on the outside for obvious reasons, waterproof on the inside, then a breathable and absorbent fabric next to the skin. Please do your own mask research if you are planning to make and wear a mask for protection against particles smaller than dust, such as a mask to protect you from airborne viruses.
If you are in a country currently facing the Covid-19 virus, frequent cleaning of your hands with soap and water, not touching the face, not shaking hands with people, and basic hygiene is advisable. Masks can only help to a certain degree.
Recommended Fabrics:
Outer fabrics:
Double gauze
Cotton
Gore-Tex is probably the best. Water repellent/waterproof fabric, and allows you to breathe. Can be quite pricey.
Some Tafettas (Micro-Fibre) are water repellent/water proof, but also breathable.
Be careful when purchasing 100% waterproof fabric for making bags. They are great but you will sweat and can’t breathe!
Inner and absorbent fabrics:
Cotton
Jersey (Be careful it will stretch)
Double gauze
Flannel
You could use a lining fabric next to the skin. It is down to personal preference.
RESOURCES
If you are living in Hong Kong and want to get your hands on some fabric and elastic supplies, I will put links to where I bought my supplies from. Click on the link to download the Map of Sham Shui Po 2020, where I will show you locations of shops. For the elastic, I bought these from my local stationery shop, but most stationery shops in Hong Kong will stock this in their craft section. Otherwise, just pop into the elastic shops/manufacturers located on my map.
Elastic locations: Red dots 1-7. Especially Wing Fung Industries opposite the temple. Red dot 17 is another elastic manufacturer. Blue dots 1, 4, 10. Green dot 4. Middle of Ki Lung Street opposite Pink dot 7. You might be interested in my Sourcing for Elastic in Hong Kong post for other types of elastics. Along the section of the road, Red dots 1-7, are shops selling mask making supplies. Please note: Waterproof fabrics do not allow you to breathe. You could be harbouring bacteria. I do not recommend such kits.
Fabrics
Most of the outer fabrics I have chosen to use are 100% cotton or 100% organic cotton. It is very sustainable, affordable, breathable, easy to sew, and comes in many colours and designs.
I bought my recent fabric stash from Modes4u.com. They also have a sister company called Kawaiifabric.com. If you aren’t sure about the fabric choice and don’t want to splash out too much on one style of fabric, Modes4u.com sell their fabrics in 1/2 metres. Recently I discovered they sell a lot of their fabrics in fat quarter sizes. Great for small projects like these. They ship internationally and they are pretty fast. Click the Modes4U banner on the right hand side bar.
Tools you will need:
Sewing Machine, Fabric, Scissors, Pattern Printout, Sewing Thread, Elastic, Ruler, Chalk/Pencil, Pins, Iron, Ironing Board, Card (Not essential), Hair Grip/Bobby Pin.
Light Weight Interfacing: If your fabric is a bit too light and you want to give it a little body/structure, I would suggest backing it with some light weight interfacing. If you have to use medium weight interfacing, then I will be guessing you are using very light weight fabric. The fabric may not be suitable for making face masks, so you might want to reconsider your choice. This is not an essential item, but it will help.
Make sure you pre-wash your fabric and interfacing before you cut and sew the mask. This will allow for any shrinkage. Remember this is a washable and re-useable face mask. The last thing you want to happen is it shrinks after the first use. Putting the fabrics into a netted wash bag will help stop any loose threads from making a mess in the washing machine.
SHORT TUTORIAL
You are watching the cut down version of the Duckbill Style Face Mask Tutorial. It has extra scenes cut out for those that want to skip to the making of the mask. If you have pattern cutting and sewing skills, then this is the tutorial for you. I will explain the most important part, then we move swiftly onto cutting and construction.
Extended Tutorial
If you require a bit more than just a tutorial on making, please watch the extended version where I will be explaining and talk through pattern placement and construction. There will be extra scenes, tips and advice.
DRAFTING THE DUCKBILL STYLE FACE MASK PATTERN FROM SCRATCH
As promised, here is how to draft the pattern for the Duckbill Style Face Mask from scratch. It won’t be exact as the PDF pattern, but it will be close. You just need to refine it. I hope this will help you if you don’t have access to a printer or ran out of ink!
Next pattern is out already!
Remember to share. Sharing is caring!
Shan x
You are welcome to download and use my patterns to make items for friends, family, neighbours, or even to sell. I only ask of you to help me share or credit me and state where you got the patterns from.
Thank you Elisenda. I am glad you have found a pattern that your family likes. I too have tried so many of the popular designs, but still find they don’t fit all face types. Thanks again, stay safe too.
Dear Shannie, thanks a lot for sharing your talent and knowledge. Blessings from Barcelona. We (my family) are using your patterns and they are great to do an to wear. Tutorials are the best! Stay safe and well done! Thanks thanks thanks 🙂
Hi Karen, my website has decided to not allow some download. Not sure why. I am trying to sort out as soon as I can. Sorry for any inconvenience caused.
Hi Karen, find me on Facebook ShannieMakes. Message me on Messenger. It’s much easier to explain there.
Hi Shannie,
Thanks so much for posting and sharing this great mask design! I am not able to download the men’s XL duckbill mask pattern (no image shows up to click on). Can you help? My 6’4″ son has a very large head and broad face (and a beard!) and I haven’t been able to find any masks nor patterns that will fit him. He currently uses doubled extra large bandanas tied round his face. Thanks so much! Also, do you suggest adding a flexible metal nose wrap? This is another item, I’ve had difficulty locating, so I’ve been using plastic coated flexible copper wire, which I have on hand.
Take care, Karen W
Hi Shannie, thanks so much for posting and sharing this great mask design! I am not able to download the men’s XL duckbill mask pattern (no image shows up to click on). Can you help? My 6’4″ son has a very large head and broad face (and a beard!) and I haven’t been able to find any masks nor patterns that will fit him. He currently uses doubled extra large bandanas tied round his face. Thanks so much! Also, do you suggest adding a flexible metal nose wrap? This is another item, I’ve had difficulty locating, so I’ve been using plastic coated flexible copper wire, which I have on hand. Thanks again! Take care, Karen W
Thanks! Glad you liked them. Stay safe too.
Thank you Shannie for your pattern and tutiorial. You have beautiful work, stay safe.
Hi Cath, find me on Facebook: ShannieMakes. We can message each other more easily on Messenger. The pattern can easily be adjusted to accommodate his face. Watch the tutorial on “Mask with Nose bar slot and 2 filter options”. That pattern is almost the same but doesn’t use binding for the elastic, but a channel. You can replace the elastic with ties if you want. I usually use 60cm elastic for the over head fitting. Hope this helps?
Hello Shannie, thanks for your wonderful mask patterns and detailed videos.
I’ve made about 20 of them and kept some and given them away.
I’ve spent a few hours today trying to adapt the duckbill mask to my loved ones face. I adapted your large pattern and failed miserably! He has a large/wide jaw and quite a large head in general.He wants the mask to go around the back of his head, not over the ears.. Any tips?
Yes Brett. There are a few pattern out there that look similar. In case people get confused, I call mine slightly different. I have also found they don’t always fit all faces. This is my version. I am a pattern cutter and I decided to modify it to fit my face. Of course it may not fit everyone’s face, but I do have many designs so people have a choice. Thanks for your comment.
These are fashionable and protection mask, these duckbill mask currently very familiar
Thanks Peg for your handy tip. Do what you need to do to make your life easier for yourself. I had to use the binding for this design because my fabric was too thick to fold over due to the print on my fabric. Potentially sewing over 9 Layers. My “Mask with Nose Bar Slot & 2 Filter Options”, uses the technique you described.
I have seen a lot of people using many tying techniques due to the shortage of elastic. It is great we sewers can come up with so many ideas and over come this obstacle. Stay safe.
I extend the side that will be outside and fold it over the inside to form the casing. This saves cutting the extra rectangle.
Some People prefer to tie on the masks. Using 40-44″ of gross grain 1/4-3/8″ ribbon, laced down one side and up the other, put it over your head, position the mask and tie to snugness required.
Hi Phyllis, you should be fine with the sizes. Just don’t go beyond large except if you have a larger face.
Look for the latest one called the Mask with nose bar slot and 2 filter options. It’s a modified version of the duckbill.Same shape but with the extras.x
Hi sorry please ignore my previous comment. I’ve watched your video tutorial and would like to ask how can I slot in the nose wire and the changeable filter (I would like to have a slot for the filter).
Hi, I’m a noob here and I would like to know if you have any videos on the tutorial to guide me through.
Are the sizes suitable for asian fits?
Hi Angela, I only use interfacing to give thin fabrics a bit more structure. We sewers mainly use it only for that purpose. Interfacing can act as another barrier, but it isn’t scientifically proven it blocks out anything. Interfacing is usually ironed (if it is iron on interfacing) onto the fabric, then cut out. No need for a separate pattern. If you bought non iron on interfacing, then just cut it out in the same shape as the main fabric pattern. The interfacing does not replace a filter pocket. Say your design has 3 layers, the main fabric, lining and filter pocket. If you iron on the interfacing onto the main fabric, you will need a lining to cover this since you can see it, but you will also need a filter pocket to hold a disposable filter. Does that make sense? Try looking at my tutorial, Mask with nose bar slot and 2 filter options. That’s the same as the duckbill mask but with the extras. You can see me explaining at the beginning. Hope this helps.
Do you have a pattern for using the interfacing? Is this better than a filter pocket, since it’s non woven?
Hi SL, glad I could help, and thanks for the support. You could use only 2 layers of fabric, but that’s one layer of protection taken away. Just take the lining layer out and not the filter lining, then you can choose to insert a filter. A dried out wet wipe is recommended as a substitute if you can’t get filters. You really need to do a bit of research to see if it’s safe though. As for the summer months, I recommend trying the Cover Mask pattern. Covers under the chin and all the right places, but also very spacious. Hope this helps?
Hi, I wanted to update you on my mask making! I have made 12 of your Duckbill mask with nose bar and filter slot so far! I just got a message from my mother-in-law saying they were the only masks she likes wearing as she can breathe in it (she is asthmatic). I wanted to say thanks again for providing such easy patterns and clear detailed videos. I never would have been able to make these masks without your help as I’m such a beginner sewer. One question, what do you recommend for summer weather, I’m worried the 3 layers might be too hot, is it possible to remove the inner liner layer (the one that attaches next to the outer fabric) and leave the pocket inner lining? Or would it not have the support to retain the shape? By the way, I’m in Japan though I’m from the US! Anyway, hope you and your family are safe and thanks again.
Hi Maricarmen, of course you may. Thank you for your support. Stay safe. x
Thank you very much for sharing your mask patterns, they have helped me a lot to make several masks for me. With your permission I share the link to your website on my blog.
Regards from Spain.
Hi Alexis,
1. Have you clipped triangles on the seams? It helps it lie flat.
2. Press the seams open with an iron.
3. Hold the mask upwards, but only the bit you need to sew is flat in the machine under the presser foot. Hope this is clear enough for you to understand?
4. Otherwise clip the seam allowance and iron to one side. That way you can sew only once through the fabric to catch the seam allowance underneath.
5. Or just clip the seam allowance and iron the seam open. No need to sew it. Lol. I did not do to the Mask with 2 filter options. Have a look at the post. Same style, but different take.
Hope this helps? x
My comment auto corrected. I just meant the seam that runs parallel down the front of the mask. Not “army taught” lol
I’m having such issues sewing the army taught seam down the front 2-3 mm from the original seam without getting folds or wrinkles.. any tips???
Hi Deborah, glad it helped. Any problems, just let me know. Stay safe.
Thank you so much for this pattern. I have been looking for a free one like this that I can print…and bless you for the extra-large. It will be put to good use. Thank you!
Hi Marie, I had only 2 people contact me about this. Found out they were way over 6 foot tall. I showed them how to adapt the pattern for tall/big people. If you message me on ShannieMakes facebook page, I can show you. Btw there’s also a X Large and also XXL pattern around if you have chance have a look. It’s on one of the latest posts. Mask with 2 Filter Lining Options. All the best.
FYI, female here w/o a big nose and the large was way too small.
Thanks you Sandra.Stay safe. x
Many,many thanks for your pattern and video…I am about to make 6 masks for my great grand kiddies. They will love this style.
Thanks you, David. Stay safe. x
Thank you very much for this tutorial!
Hi Nancy, Rouleau Loop Turner, or just loop turner. On amazon or any haberdashery store. not expensive. Very handy for turning straps.
Hi SL, most people use the non woven interfacing because it is readily accessible. Usually woven is used in jackets and a bit pricey. Not all places stock this. I haven’t bought any for years. Anything is better than nothing, but you do know light weight and medium weight interfacing allows air through, right? Just do a quick test. At the moment in my city, Hong Kong, we are seeing a drop of prices for disposable face masks, especially with the recent availability of filters for home-made masks/re-usesible masks on the market. I am sure it won’t be long before you guys (Presumably you are in the US) should get supplies soon.
Anyway, I’m glad to put my skills to good use. I can’t teach anymore because I have a little kid. She started kindergarten last year, but only had 4 months of schooling. Since then she’s been home. Doing this reminds me of when I was teaching in the UK. I loved my job. So I do what I do. Glad you guys appreciate it. Keeps me going! Lol
What is the tool you use to pull the elastic through
Thanks for your quick reply and clarifying things! I do have one more question, the fusible interfacing you use. I came across woven and non-woven. Which should one use for face masks? Does it really matter? Do you think it does anything as a filter? Thanks again, I really appreciate you responding to all our questions here on this site and helping to create patterns and videos for all to use.
Hi SL, use interfacing if you like or your fabric requires it. You don’t have to follow me exactly. Adapt it to your needs. Most of my tutorials I teach people to do things in different steps and use different methods. Let me know how you get on. x
Hi SL, the 3 pleats require the binding because you cannot fold pleats under because it will be toooooooooo thick to sew, especially if you are a beginner. Same as the Duckbill Style if you are using 3 layers of thick fabric. Click on the new Blog, Mask with Nose Bar slot & 2 filter lining options. There’s a duckbill there with no binding. Let me know if you have any questions. x
I haven’t made these yet but looking to make the 3 pleat and the duckbill face mask versions. But I was wondering, is there an easier way to make this without having a separate piece of material for the binding? If so, could you explain how to do it out of one piece and just fold over? For a beginner like myself, the extra step of the binding seems harder. Also, I noticed the 3 pleat uses an interfacing, should or can the duckbill version have an interfacing as well? Thanks in advance!
Hi Judy,ok! Give me 2 minutes.
Hi
I’m struggling with internet speed and so the images for downloading are not coming up. Would you be able to email me the Duckbill face mask pattern please?
Would be most grateful (i’m in South Africa).
Thank you
Judy
Thanks Pam for your support. Do whatever you like with my patterns. They are there for you to use and adapt to your skill. As they say, there are more than one way to fry an egg! Stay safe. x
Many thanks for your patterns and tutorials I have made both the 3 layer pleated face mask as well as the duckbill, I however altered the pattern slightly for the duckbill one leaving off the binding but adding on that extra bit to the outer layer fabric but keeping the 2 inner layers to your measurements, I then just folded over that extra bit to make the casing for the elastic which was quicker for me and less stress on my poor 38 year old sewing machine which does not want to sew over so many thicknesses! BTW we live in South Africa so your patterns are floating around down this end of the world too! Thanks Pam
Hi Tylstenie, do you have a picture of the mask you want? If I see the picture, I might be able to draft up a pattern. I have a few selections of mask patterns that I don’t always post or share because I don’t like the fit or the look of them. There are also a few different Duckbills out there. Otherwise if you can get a mask and take a picture of it with a ruler placed directly on top of it for me, I could possibly make a pattern for you. Send to me shanniemakes@gmail.com. I can’t promise anything, but I could have a look. All the best. Shan x
I am wondering if anyone has tried these as a cover to a medical duckbill mask and knows which size works for that purpose.. My daughter was to be fitted for an N95 mask but they have not found a size which fits her properly so now they are thinking of trying a duckbill mask. I have already made 6 covers for the N95 mask in antisipation of her getting the N95 but now that has all changed. To be honest I don’t know the difference in the masks but these look a lot like the ones I made for my neighbors and myself but they would not fit over another mask. They are so limited they only give each nurse one mask which they have to reuse so she wants covers to change at least the outside between every pts. Thanks
Hi Betty, I don’t have written instructions yet. They take too long to write since I have too many patterns. I have started, so hopefully soon. Everything takes too long with a small child about. I could do the lazy instruction which most people would do. Most experience sewers will understand, but to some people I need to prompt them when to back stitch and which sides to sew and fold. I will be rolling out the new instructions soon. Hope it’s not too late for you. Shan x
How do I print out the written instructions for your two layer Duckbill face mask and the one for use with filter?
Hi Yoanna, the proper Gore-Tex is a 2 way fabric. If you stretch it over a hot cup of water, you should see steam coming through. If you turn it the other way, it doesn’t allow steam through. That’s one way to the if you have the proper stuff. This is why Gore-Tex is used for outdoor/mountain wear. It allows you to sweat through and not allowing rain come in. No one wants to wear a non breathable coat going up a mountain. You’ll be sweating before the journey. The best design for this fabric is a design with a flat front and preferably no seams at the front, as seam stitching creates holes. I do suggest people to do their on research on the best fabric, and execution of the masks. Gore-Tex should be on the outside. First defence as it is waterproof/resistance, but some people like to have a nice fabric on the outside. If you are one of these people, then it should at least be the second layer.
Hi Mandy, to be honest I have only made these for the adults in my family. I used 60cm for the adults. Not sure for kids. It also depends on the brand, type of elastic, size of head and style/width of mask to determine the length. Sorry not much help if you are mass producing. I have only adults and a 3 year old in the family. No larger kids to measure on. May be start with 40cm and check a few kids. Hope this helps? x
thank you so much for these!!! They are amazing!
How much elastic should I use for going around head and neck for the 2 x children sizes PLEASE.
This pattern is my favorite. Thanks so much for sharing.
Question: your patterns recommend Gore-Tex but when I put it against my face, it is like plastic. Not breathable at all.How is it suitable for mask material? Does it work for some patterns and not for others? Which layer, inner or outer, should the Gore-Tex be?
It is the latest post. The one that says “Simple Duckbill Style Face Mask Use with Filter Pattern”. On the hot page, left of the yellow one.
where are the instructions for the duck bill mask with filter pocket? Thanks so much.
It is the latest post. The mask that is white with black, blue, red and yellow cats. https://shanniemakes.com/simple-duckbill-style-face-mask-pattern-for-use-with-filter/.
Hope this helps? x
Thank you for all the time & energy you have put into developing these patterns, they are great & very much appreciated❣️
I can’t find printed directions or a video for the construction of the Duck Bill mask with filter pocket. I have made one without & want to try one with. Thank you.
JJ
It’s for elastic, but you can use ties if you want. x
Awww, it means so much. Thank you for your kind words. Feel confident. You can do it! x
Hi! I wanted to give you a big thank you! 🙂 Just finished reading it all, watched your tutorial, printed and cut the pattern… SOLD! You explained it really well. Wish me luck! I am new at sowing, but your tutorial made me feel empowered. Thank you for your time, and for sharing 🙂
Excellent! Post them on my Facebook page so we all can see. Stay safe. x
I don’t have a sewing machine but I made this by hand. It was pretty easy to make even without a sewing machine. I did not have any elastic so I actually used thin elastic hair ties. They fit perfectly and are already circles so I didn’t need to tie them and form any bumps in the ear straps from the knots. Thank you for the nice pattern.
Hi Melissa, try the extra large, pattern going up in a few minutes. I had to get it tested by someone since I don’t have a large man to try it on for me. x
Does anyone have the larger size pattern? The large doesn’t fit my husband.
Hi, I have an X Large. No one has got back on the fitting yet, so just need confirmation before I give it out to the pollution. I’ll send you it in an email. Let me know how it fits. Thanks x
Thank you so much! Would you mind sharing an xl or even xxl pattern to try?
Check your email. x
Haha….unfortunately I don’t have a larger model to try on. But you are lucky, check your email in a bit and tell me if this is any good? x
Yes, if you make the bias binding longer, you could. That is why I teach how to make it. I don’t just make tutorials for specific stuff. I make sure I teach people a skill that you can apply for other uses. Glad you worked that out. Genius! Extra brownie points from me. Lol. Stay safe. x
Will you please email me the XL pattern? Thank you!
The large doesn’t fit all men. is there bigger sizes?
So love your pattern and video. Thank you!!! If we can all wear and make for others maybe we can save some lives. I am assuming that if I make binding a bit bigger I could make bias bound strips since elastic is in such short supply?
Hi Diane, yes adapt my pattern to your liking. I don’t have any large men here to model my pattern against. Only men with chicken legs. Lol. Will a size bigger than LARGE be ok? I will send you an email with the Extra Large size. Let me know if it is any better. It will only be a guessing. If it is good, then I will give it out to everyone to download. x
Well done on you! Just modify my patterns to how you want it. Which pattern you want in extra large? So a bit bigger than the large is ok? I don’t have many large men to model it on, just skinny men with chicken legs around here! Lol. x
Thank you From NAMIBIA
We have large men in this country. Would it be possible to send me EXTRA Large Pattern.
Super easy to do. I did cheat – ends used surger/overlocker to close and then folded over and sewed for cord. Did add 2 cm to each side
Check your mail in 1 minute. Xtra large coming up! x
Shannie I made the single large mask. He has a wide face, lol. Thank you so much! I know several men who are larger, so this will be wonderful for them. You rock!
Thanks for your support. Stay safe. x
Awww thank you for your kind words. Yes, adapt my patterns to fit your needs. I only do it this way to teach people different skills so they can use it in other projects. I’ll size up the pattern in the morning and email it to you to try. How about that? Without seeing your hubby’s face, it is only going to be a guess. But if it works out good, then I’ll dish it out to the population. Did you use the multi pattern or the single large one?
You got a crochet hook? Or even bend a wire. How about that?
Are you referring to the Duckbill style face mask pattern? Tbh, it applies to all my patterns that have multiple sizes. The multiple size is for people that want to modify the pattern before finalising it then add their own seam allowance. The multi size have no seam allowance. This is great for people in USA, they work in inches, so they could add their own. Hope this explanation helps.
I recycled from an old face mask. You can find some on Aliexpress app, but they are very expensive. It’s flat aluminium. At the moment I can get hold of proper nose bars for the masks. The only problem is, they have suspended post going out of Hong Kong. Once post resumes I might try and help people get some. You will need to check my post updates on Facebook though. shanniemakes facebook page.
Thank you from St. Louis, Missouri!!!
I have made several different versions of the duckbill mask and this one hits it out of the ball park! I love, love, love that the top of it doesn’t come so close to the eyes. I changed it up to use ties instead of elastic, so I was able to omit the side bindings and just turn the side to the inside, which made the pattern even quicker. Would love to see one more size larger for bigger men. My BIL has a fat face and the large was a bit small for him. But I’m grateful for such a quick and easy pattern for all of my other friends and family! Bless my husband, he’s sitting in his chair cutting out 30 of these for me right now, lol. Thank you SO much, and hope you are well.
Hi Shan, do you have a suggestion for other tools to use to insert the elastic? I don’t have the type of tool you show. Thank you so much.
Marie
What is the difference between the pattern page that has all 3 sizes on it and the individual size pattern pages? It appears the all on one page does not include the seam allowance, but it also doesn’t seem to be the same shape.
What is that metal piece you inserted? Where can I find it?
Thanks you, Jennifer. I’m glad it is helping you. Stay safe. x
Thank you! I am an OR nurse and looking at using our sterilization wrap to make these masks to cover our N95 masks so they will last longer.
thank you from australia
Did you print it actual size, rather than print to fit? I had 1 lady that didn’t do this, I ended up having to talk her through the printer settings. I would make it larger than small. You could always trim it down if it’s too big. Hope this helps? Please, let me know how you get on. Stay Safe x
I have a question. It looks like you are using the pattern in the size it is printed. On the pattern it gives a scale of 4 cm. I measured the line with a ruler and it is shorter than 4 cm. I enlarged the pattern so the line is just a little bit less than 4 cm. I think I set it to 117% when I enlarged it. Which size do I use? The one you printed or the one that I enlarged?
Glad it has helped you. Stay safe. x
Thank you so much for your great tutorials! I have printed the pattern and now understand how to do it. Ready to get to work.
Thank you thank you
I have been using aluminium ones cut out from old used masks for demonstrations. I hate to see waste. Some people are using size 12 gauge jewellery wire, plastic twist ties, and pipe cleaners. What every you choose to use, think about testing it to see if it rusts or withstand heat if washed. I have seen some in my local suppliers. They have absolutely tons right now. Mask kits to sew your own. I don’t go out often but could check for you if you really want some. I might be visiting next week.PM me on Facebook Shanniemakes if you don’t find anything local!
Can you tell me where you can buy the nose bars? I am making these masks, which are brilliant by the way for my immediate family and some friends.
I have made one for my partner who has a compromised immune system and needs to be careful. Thank you for fantastic patterns.
I can only base these measurements on the elastic I have. I don’t use dress elastic. Every make of elastic stretch is different. Also every mask width is different. If I was making for just one person I will have to try it on the person because each person’s head is also different. If you want to make for a whole load of people, it is best to make the tie version. I know it is a pain. But I can give you my measurements based on what I have. For over head and neck elastic design for the Duckbill Style, Adult elastic length is roughly 60cm is enough for tightness and knot. For ear loops I use 23cm, but anything from 21-23cm is fine since elastic stretches. All the best and let me know how you get on. Take care x
Thank you so much for all of your face mask patterns. Can you tell me how long I should make the elastic cord for the regular version as well as the over-the-head version of the duck bill and the standard surgical mask design? I am making these for nurses at our hospital. Thanks!
We must unite and combat this virus. Merci! XX
Thank you. I try my best. I am still new to Youtubing. Everything is so slow and takes soo much time. Thank you for your support. XX
Thank you for your kind words. XX
Many thanks from France,for sharing your pattern for free
WONDERFUL! I appreciate you sharing your knowledge and talent. Blessings to you. Well done…
Thank you SO MUCH! Your videos are perfect!
Eh, didn’t know about that bit. Have you clicked onto the picture? They are all free. Let me know how you get on. x
Your post says this pattern for duckbill face mask is free. But when I try to download, I am asked for credit card information. Am I doing something wrong?
Hi Jodi, thanks for the kind message. You take care too x
Thank you so much for sharing this pattern! Unfortunately, many of us will need it because the hospitals in the US are going to run out of masks due to the coronavirus. I really appreciate your effort in developing these and sharing them! Please take care.