Pleated Face Mask Pattern & Pleat Guide

thingiverse

I designed a pattern to make two-layer, cotton face masks with a filter pocket for the pandemic. The Adult size matches the size of a standard disposable pleated mask. I also designed Kid's Large (approximate ages 6-10) and Kid's Small (approximate ages 3-6) patterns and pleat guides. After tearing through card stock versions of this pattern, I designed a traceable pattern to make pleated face masks. I've put slots into the mask so you can mark the fold lines directly on the mask, speeding up the ironing process. I also designed a pleat guide to make ironing pleats easier, faster, and more accurate (REMOVE THE PLEAT GUIDE BEFORE IRONING IN THE PLEAT OR IT WILL MELT). These instructions assume a basic level of sewing and are in no way step-by-step or comprehensive. Seam Allowance: 1 cm (3/8") Cut 2 (one for the inside and one for then outside of the mask) Adult Elastic: Cut 2 between 7-9" (one for each side) Kid's Elastic: Cut 2, 6.5" (one for each side) Instructions: 1. Place Mask Pattern guide on fabric and cut two 2. Place both pieces, right sides together and sew on along the bottom on the marked line to stitch the front and back together. 3. Open up and iron down the long sides along marked line. 4. Fold the top (short side) down twice and iron flat. 5. Repeat on the bottom. 6. Fold the front and back, wrong sides together, and iron flat to make a square. 7. Open the mask and stitch down the inside top and bottom of the mask (the double folded edges). *Insert a nose wire in the front side during this step if desired* 8. Use the pleat guide to fold the bottom pleat of the mask. Remove the pleat guide and iron the bottom pleat. (see photo) 9. Use the pleat guide to fold the middle pleat of the mask. Remove the pleat guide and iron the middle pleat. (see photo) 10. Pin the pleated mask. Insert the edges of the cut elastic into the top and bottom of the mask between the front and back of the fabric. Sew down the side of the mask, stitching the elastic and the front and back of the mask together. If desired, repeat with a second stitch closer to the edge to ensure the elastic stays securely in the mask. 11. Repeat step 10 on the other side.