How to Make and Care for 3D Face Masks
I started sewing cloth face coverings in March 2020 in response to the pandemic. After trying numerous patterns, I discovered the “3D” mask and it quickly became my favorite to wear and make. In the process of making hundreds of 3D masks, I’ve developed my own construction methods to share on this site.
Besides my tutorials, there is also information on my favorite sources for fabrics, elastics, and other notions; tips on fabric selection; care instructions; and other pointers for making masks and keeping them looking great.
Fabric face coverings are not medical devices and I make no claims as to their efficacy for any purpose. Please consult CDC, WHO, or your local health officer’s guidelines for more information.
About the 3D Mask
What’s so special about the 3D mask? Let me count the ways...
Its shape pushes out away from the face, so you don’t get a mouthful of fabric when you try to talk. It doesn’t press against your nose and it stays up with very little tension on the ear loops. Its construction is a bit like a box pleat, so there’s a little play in the fabric and it moves with your jaw during normal speech. I can wear it comfortably without having to adjust it or pull it up over my nose. And it doesn’t come up too high under my eyes or dig into my neck, either. It basically addresses all my complaints about the numerous other styles I tried and disliked. It’s my Goldilocks mask.
If you are double-masking, this style fits well over disposable masks. Click here to see how I shape a surgical mask to wear as a filter.
If you find masks uncomfortable to wear, give this style a try.
